The number 1 seed isn't technically at stake with this game for the Dallas Cowboys, but it could go a long way with a win.
Right out of the gate, Quarterback Dak Prescott continued his MVP-like season with efficiency, accuracy, and another touchdown strike to his favorite target, CeeDee Lamb.
The defense started a bit shaky.
The Philadelphia Eagles did a solid job moving the ball with a combination of penalties and a 30-yard reception by DeVonta Smith.
Unfortunately for Philly, they came away with no points. Quarterback Jalen Hurts did what he has been doing so successfully.
He should have accounted for Damone Clark being there to lay the wood and force the game's first turnover.
https://twitter.com/PFF/status/1734026240523182210?t=9WHz_n7nIsc0zByWLaw_mQ&s=03
Dallas' second possession of the game was equally effective, even though the officials began to make their presence known.
All in one series, there was a ticky-tacky pass interference against Darius Slay (I'll take it).
Not to mention, many Philly defensive linemen are looking for the zebras to help them.
The ball bounced around with Eagles defenders getting their hands on it too much for my liking.
Nevertheless, the second series ended with a confidence booster to Brandon Aubrey.
A 60-yard field goal sailed through the goalposts with another five yards to spare.
https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1734029853345915039?t=IU0qXmqxyXfzv-ydX-5fnQ&s=03
After a couple of a runs at the onset of Philly's second possession, the first quarter came to an end.
First Quarter: Dallas Cowboys lead 10 – 0
While I yelled at the TV screen for the special teams to watch for the fake, a group that resorts to trickery is typically worrisome.
Despite Philly keeping the ball, the defense was able to keep them out of the endzone.
They settled for a Jake Elliott 52-yard field goal.
Head Coach Mike McCarthy is in his bag today. It's overly apparent he is looking to find balance in this offense.
Tony Pollard and Rico Dowdle have effectively fought for extra yards. But I needed to mention our young tight end to finish this post.
DAK PRESCOTT ➡️ JAKE FERGUSON FOR 27 YARDS 🔥 pic.twitter.com/pHkETh6rX4
— Dallas Nation (@TheDallasNation) December 11, 2023
That 27-yard reception down the middle of the field represents what will be there throughout this game.
Let me go back to backup Running Back Rico Dowdle.
Some of us still miss Ezekiel Elliott, but Dowdle's impact on this game is everything that fans can hope for.
With the assistance of video replay, the 4th year pro secured his second rushing touchdown.
The pressure that the Dallas Cowboys defense is bringing right now is affecting Jalen Hurts. It's not completely getting home but enough to make him second guess himself.
Dallas' resident All-Pro, Micah Parsons, decided to join the party and take two of Philly's linemen with him.
Micah Parsons: 1
Lane Johnson: 0
pic.twitter.com/SZ4HZ17FPW— PFF (@PFF) December 11, 2023
Once again, Dan Quinn's defense rose to the occasion and kept Hurt's and company out of the endzone.
For the record, Jake Elliott has been busy tonight.
With the score being 17-6, McCarthy didn't take his foot off the gas.
A quick deep post to Brandin Cooks put Dallas right back in the red zone. More specifically, we were on the one-yard line.
Two curious passes later, Dak has his second touchdown of the day to often criticized Michael Gallup.
This game is far from over but America's Team is rolling into half feeling good.
