Eagles Cowboys Preview

Even at 6-8, heading into tomorrow's game against the Cowboys, the Eagles are still very much alive and could easily land a playoff spot.  But instead of focusing on the much larger playoff picture, I want to specifically talk about what the Birds need to do tomorrow to beat Dallas.  Here are my keys to an Eagles victory.

Forget About Jets Giants Game
When teams need help from other teams in order to make the playoffs, I love how players say that they don't pay attention to the other games going on around them.  Don't give me that.  With the amount of technology we have today, the Eagles will know the outcome of the Giants Jets game when they take the field against the Cowboys at 4:15.  Regardless of the outcome, it will be important for the Eagles not to let it affect the outcome of the game.  Go out there and play hard and beat stinkin' Dallas even if you are mathematically eliminated from the playoffs.  Show some pride and beat the Boys.

Don't Underestimate Dallas
Even though the Eagles absolutely destroyed Dallas earlier this year, it's important for them not to underestimate them come tomorrow afternoon.  The Cowboys are a good team and the Eagles can't take them lightly.

Balanced Attack
Tomorrow, the Eagles have to give Shady his touches but they can't forget to give Vick his fair share of plays as well.  Vick looked very comfortable last week against the Jets, and the Eagles need to make sure to give him a good amount of opportunities.

Pass Rush
As with any football game, the pass rush is key.  The Eagles defense has stepped up in the past few weeks mainly because the Eagles have been able to get after the quarterback.  Romo is a great quarterback when you give him time to make plays and the Eagles have to do everything they can to disrupt his timing.

Turnovers 
The Eagles have to protect the football, especially in the redzone.  I think this game is going to come down to the final few minutes, and the Eagles can't afford to give the Cowboys extra opportunities.  More importantly, the Eagles have to come away with points every time they go into the redzone, even if it is only a field goal.

Overall I think the Eagles will win.  They are playing at an extremely high level, and regardless of what happens in the Giants game, I think the Eagles will totally route the Boys and give us all an early Christmas gift.