This old-school NFC East rivalry is never easy to predict in that both programs usually play way over their heads, regardless of the records or the talent on their respective rosters. In 2026, circumstances with the Philadelphia Eagles make this even more of a conundrum. Comparatively, one could also list plenty of confusing attributes about the underperforming Dallas Cowboys, too. Each franchise enters Week 7 at just 2–4, so this is a virtual must-win on both sides.
We’ll start with the most obvious and controversial aspect. Super Bowl LIX MVP Jalen Hurts was announced as out for the remainder of the season this week, due to blood-clot issues in his lungs. The Eagles’ organization is under fire for his designation, since apparently they knew about his blood clot risks prior to their contest in Week 5 in London. That can’t help matters this Monday or any week this season.
Regardless, the consensus leader and stalwart member of the Eagles’ offense is now gone, leaving an already banged-up group with few answers moving forward. New offensive coordinator Sean Mannion was already on the hot seat following week after week of poor performances from his unit. There are new rumors that Saquon Barkley will get traded, and Philly’s offensive line is a shell of what it once was following Landon Dickerson landing on the IR (injured reserve) and the retirement of Lane Johnson.
There is no hiding from the turmoil the Eagles have been through the past few weeks. Their offense ranks 28th or worse in nearly every offensive category, including points per game, yards per game, and yards per play. In these cases, what we often see is even the most talented defenses regress as they try to shoulder the team’s weaknesses. Through six weeks, Philadelphia’s defense ranks average to mediocre, a group that’s on the field as much as any in the league (Philly is 31st in time of possession).
Onto the Cowboys. Last week was the worst representation of Jerry Jones’ franchise, a team that totally collapsed in front of Micah Parsons and a jacked-up Packers roster. In truth, they played hard on both sides of the ball, out-producing the Packers 24-20 in first downs. Too many penalties (11 for 108 yards) and more turnovers (two early interceptions by Dak) set the tone, allowing Green Bay’s defense to slow the contest down and come out the victors.
Dallas has now lost three of their past four games. On the bright side, they still have a very talented, explosive passing attack, something their rival cannot claim.
While the Eagles’ defense will certainly put up a fight, we also foresee their lack of offensive production continuing this Monday. The Cowboys, who were just humbled on several fronts last Sunday night, still have plenty of hope for this season. They’re also far healthier and have a far more capable quarterback under center. Dallas, as a legitimate favorite at Philadelphia, is the only way to look (believe it or not)!
Cowboys vs Eagles prediction: Cowboys -4.5 (-105) available at time of publishing. Playable to 5.5 (-110).
