FRISCO, Texas – The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for their penultimate game of the 2024 season, clashing with the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. With playoff contention hanging by a thread, this highly-anticipated rivalry, steeped in history and intensity, adds layers of significance to the contest. After being soundly defeated by the Eagles earlier this season, can the Cowboys reverse fortunes and secure victory?
Cooper Rush, stepping up again as the quarterback due to Dak Prescott's injury, takes center stage this Sunday. Following his impressive showing against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he threw for 292 yards and completed passes to eight different targets, Rush is optimistic about his performance capabilities. He stated, "Personally, I think I’m [a]better player now... Our defense is getting turnovers, and us not turning it over is leading to victories." This reflects his growing confidence as he navigates his role under head coach Mike McCarthy, who noted, "I would say he’s as even-keeled as [any quarterback] I’ve had the opportunity to work with." This set-up is not just pivotal for Rush personally but also for the Cowboys' playoff aspirations as they hold on to slim hopes of staging an offensive comeback against the rival Eagles.
Against the formidable backdrop of Vic Fangio's defensive schemes, the Cowboys face challenges, particularly with Rush's performance against zone coverage, which has been less than stellar. His statistics against zone throughout the season reveal some troubling trends: of 207 attempts, he has only managed to complete 132, yielding 1,089 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. His struggles are underscored by the fact he has the lowest yards per attempt (5.3) against zone defense this season, bolstered by his -7.2% completion rate over expected. These figures must improve if the Cowboys hope to find success against Fangio's unit, which has pressured opponents effectively and limited them to just 6.4 yards per attempt.
The Eagles—who currently have young yet skilled players like Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean patrolling their secondary—will challenge Rush and Dallas' aerial attack significantly. Dallas' effort is bolstered by their standout defensive unit, particularly linebacker Micah Parsons, who has emerged as one of the league's elite playmakers. Since Parsons returned to the lineup, the Cowboys have led the league with 28 sacks and forced 15 turnovers, showcasing their ability to generate pressure effectively without committing undue resources. Parsons's presence necessitates pressure on the Eagles’ quarterback, whether Jalen Hurts or Kenny Pickett, feeding opportunities for turnovers and thwarting offensive drives.
Rush's task is complicated by the absence of top receiver CeeDee Lamb, meaning Dallas' young receivers need to step up and create openings against zone coverage. The last meeting against the Eagles ended poorly for Rush, where he managed to throw for just 45 yards throughout the entire match—a statistic he will surely want to improve upon. But drawing on his recent form, Rush's deep ball performance has significantly improved over recent games. He's connected on 17 of 27 deep throws—earning 328 yards and six touchdowns—indicating his upward trend and his potential to maximize big plays against the Eagles.
Meanwhile, the Dallas defense is focusing on neutralizing one of Philadelphia’s most dangerous players, running back Saquon Barkley. Earlier this season, the Cowboys held Barkley to 66 yards, showcasing their run defense prowess. Necessitating another stellar showing, the defense has avoided allowing 100 rushing yards to any back since Week 11, and to hold Barkley—who is chasing the single-season rushing record—will be key to victory. With the Eagles potentially relying heavily on the run game strategically, limiting Barkley's production can shift the game toward the Cowboys.
Rush’s impressive track record when stepping up as the backup quarterback can't be overlooked. During his starts over the 2022 and 2024 seasons, he managed remarkable outcomes with different systems and support levels. Notably, during his 2022 run, he guided the Cowboys to four victories, marking his sharp intellect and adaptability on field decisions under pressure. Brian Schottenheimer, the offensive coordinator, commended, "What he’s been asked to do ... is remarkable." This adaptability is distinctly showcased when compared to the current ebb and flow of the offense. The Dallas defense's recent form with Parsons' leadership now peaks at perfect timing for Rush's resurgence, and moving forward is necessary for the Cowboys' hopes of clinching pivotal victories.
The layers of challenge infused with personal stakes make Sunday’s showdown significant. A Cowboys win would not only keep their slim playoff hopes alive but eliminate the Eagles' contention for the No. 1 seed, representing both strategic and emotional victories for the team. For Cooper Rush, rising past the Eagles, who have been akin to personal hurdles previously, could mark his growth not just as QB but as franchise stalwart on his unique path. The stakes are clear; it’s time for Rush and the Cowboys to rise to the challenge and deliver against their heated rivals, putting his newfound skills to the test.
