Eagles vs. Cowboys: Top 10 stats defining Week 9 matchup

The Eagles and Cowboys face off in a crucial Week 9 matchup with playoff implications. Here are ten stats that define the game.

The highly anticipated Week 9 matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys is just hours away. This game holds significant postseason implications for both teams. The Eagles are aiming for a dominant performance before their Week 10 bye, while the Cowboys hope to continue their success on the road against their biggest rivals. As we approach kickoff, let's delve into ten crucial stats that define this colossal clash.

Firstly, the Eagles have been relying heavily on their running game on 3rd down plays, with a staggering 38% of their plays involving a run. This is the highest percentage in the NFL this season, highlighting their commitment to the ground game. In comparison, the league average is 24%.

Another key factor for the Eagles' success is their ability to defend the red zone. They boast an impressive 7-1 record when their opponents convert less than 55% of their red zone chances into touchdowns. This is the best record in the NFL, while the league average stands at .498. It is crucial for the Eagles to maintain their stoutness in this area.

On the other side of the ball, the Cowboys' defense has been stingy when it comes to allowing first down receptions to wide receivers. They have only allowed 30 such receptions this season, the fewest in the NFL. This showcases their ability to limit big plays in the passing game.

Explosive plays can often be game-changers, and the Cowboys have excelled in this area. They hold a remarkable 21-5 record when they make seven or more explosive plays since the 2021 season. This ties them for the best record in the NFL, with the league average standing at .589. The Eagles must prevent the Cowboys from making these game-altering plays.

Protecting the football is always crucial, and the Dallas Cowboys have excelled in this aspect. They currently lead the NFL with four defensive touchdowns, the most through the first seven games of a season in franchise history. This highlights their ability to capitalize on turnovers and turn them into points.

Dak Prescott, the Cowboys' quarterback, has found a reliable target in CeeDee Lamb. When targeting Lamb, Prescott has an impressive passer rating of 131.6. This is the third-highest passer rating drawn by a receiver in the NFL this season. It is evident that Prescott looks to Lamb early and often in the passing game.

Defensively, DaRon Bland has been a standout player for the Cowboys. He currently ranks second in the NFL with four interceptions in the 2023 season. Not only has Bland been able to secure interceptions, but he has also returned three of them for touchdowns. This makes him the first player in Cowboys history to achieve three pick-sixes in a season. With one more pick-six, Bland would tie an NFL record for the most pick-sixes in a season.

Furthermore, Bland has the opportunity to tie his career-high of five interceptions, which he set as a rookie in 2022. He is also one of only five players since the NFL merger to tally three pick-sixes in his first two NFL seasons. The last player to accomplish this feat was Janoris Jenkins in 2012. Bland's impact on the Cowboys' defense cannot be overstated.

Jalen Hurts, the Eagles' quarterback, has been on a remarkable streak, recording 300+ total yards and 2+ total touchdowns in each of his last six games. This marks the longest active streak in the NFL. The last quarterback to achieve this feat in six straight games was Patrick Mahomes in 2022. Hurts has been a consistent and dynamic playmaker for the Eagles.

Dak Prescott has been efficient on third down throws, leading the NFL this season by throwing for first downs on over 50% of his attempts. In fact, 51% of his third down throws have resulted in first downs. Prescott's ability to move the chains in crucial situations has been instrumental for the Cowboys' offense.

Finally, with two high-powered offenses facing off, this game has the potential to be a Sunday shootout. The team with possession of the football in the closing moments will likely secure the victory. Both the Eagles and the Cowboys will be looking to capitalize on their offensive firepower and come out on top.

In addition to these stats, A.J. Brown of the Tennessee Titans deserves recognition for his outstanding performance. His 831 receiving yards since Week 3 are the most by any NFL player in a six-game stretch since Antonio Brown achieved a similar feat with the Pittsburgh Steelers from November 8, 2015, to December 20, 2015.

As the Eagles and Cowboys prepare to battle it out on the field, these ten stats provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect. From the Eagles' commitment to the running game to the Cowboys' defensive prowess, every aspect of this matchup will play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Fans can anticipate a thrilling and high-stakes game that will keep them on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.