Backup quarterbacks shine as Philadelphia sweeps Dallas and secures the division crown.
The Philadelphia Eagles (13-3) powered past the Dallas Cowboys (7-9) in a decisive 41-7 victory on Sunday, clinching the 2024 NFC East division title. The win, which also secured the Eagles’ fourth-ever 13-win season, guarantees them a return to the playoffs and continues their record of reaching the Super Bowl during each of their three previous 13-win campaigns (2004, 2017, 2022).
Philadelphia’s offense, which had a slow start, found its rhythm in the second quarter. Quarterback Kenny Pickett, filling in for the injured Jalen Hurts, threw for 143 yards and a touchdown while adding a 1-yard rushing score. Pickett’s performance was pivotal in a first half that saw the Eagles score on six consecutive drives. His game was cut short after he suffered a rib injury from a late hit in the third quarter. With Pickett out, third-string quarterback Tanner McKee took over and made an immediate impact, throwing two touchdowns, including a 20-yard pass to A.J. Brown and a 25-yard strike to DeVonta Smith.
On the other side, Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush struggled against a relentless Eagles defense. After throwing an early pick-six to C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Rush managed a touchdown but was intercepted again before the half. Gardner-Johnson’s two interceptions helped set up key points for the Eagles, including a touchdown to close the first half with a commanding 24-7 lead.
Eagles running back Saquon Barkley had another standout performance, rushing for 167 yards and surpassing the 2,000-yard mark for the season. He became the ninth player in NFL history to achieve this, putting him in striking distance of the all-time single season rushing record.
Whether it’s Pickett, McKee, or Barkley, the Eagles are ready for the postseason.
