We're now just hours away from the opening game of the 2025 NFL season. The Philadelphia Eagles will raise the banner against their most bitter rivals, with the Cowboys looking to spring an upset in week 1. But how do our staff members think the game will pan out?
Liam's prediction:
The rain could play a factor, which means more carries for the most dominant running back in Football against a weakened run defense. The Eagles, should, in theory, dominate this game in all phases, but it's never quite as simple as that in week 1. We could see some sloppy errors and costly mistakes from both teams, but the Eagles will have learned from their scrappy opening win against the Packers last season, and should come into this game much-more equipped.
I think the Eagles will win 34-21, or something to the tune of that scoreline. A big day from some defensive standouts pushes the Birds to a 1-0 record to start the season.
Bryan’s prediction:
I have the Eagles winning 28-21. Philadelphia must find a way to shake off the rust and start fast. I think that may lead to more mistakes than anything on offense while the defense still has question marks of their own. My full concern is with how the offense will start. Will Jalen Hurts look sharp or will we see a rough first week 1 for the defending champs?
Defensively, my only concern is the CB2 spot. Philly didn’t really solidify that position with confidence. I could be wrong and we may see a resurgence of Adoree Jackson or a breakout year from either Kelee Ringo or Jakorian Bennett. Still, until either happens, that spot will be a big weakness which will play into the hands of a very desperate Dallas Offense. But with desperation comes mistakes, so look for a very sloppy game by both teams in this one.
David’s prediction:
When the Eagles and Cowboys line up, it always feels bigger than the schedule suggests. This home opener, when Philadelphia shows off its new banner for winning Super Bowl 59, is no different.The key lies in the trenches. Jalen Hurts won’t need to be Superman, but he will need to be steady, efficient, and decisive.
With Saquon Barkley setting the tone on the ground, Dallas’ front seven will find themselves on their heels more often than dictating. Barkley’s physicality has the potential to wear them down in the second half, opening up play-action shots to A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.
Defensively, the Eagles’ young secondary will be tested by CeeDee Lamb, but the interior defensive line is where this game tilts. If Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Moro Ojomo collapse the pocket, Dak Prescott will be forced into rushed throws, and it will create opportunities for turnovers.
do not think this will be a shootout. It will be a game that has some rust at times, but it will also deliver an Eagles methodical grind and victory. When the dust settles, the Eagles will stand tall, 27–17, another notch in the rivalry belt, with a statement win that further cements Philadelphia as the division’s true standard.
Cory’s prediction:
Eagles win 31-21. I think the Eagles will score a late touchdown to put the game away and the defense forces a turnover that leads to a short field for another easy score. Dallas will move the ball at times, but the defense will struggle to stop Philadelphia's offense once they get going as the game progresses. Saquon Barkley rushes for 100 yards and a score while Jalen Hurts throws for two touchdowns and gets Tush Pushed for another to start off the 2025 season with a tone-setting victory.
Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
