3 Biggest X-Factors For Eagles to Take Down Cowboys in Week 7

The Philadelphia Eagles are in a downward spiral right now, with the team having lost four straight games entering Week 7.

Philadelphia is now without starting quarterback Jalen Hurts for the rest of the season due to a scary blood clot issue, leaving this team in some trouble. The Eagles will be relying on backup quarterback Tanner McKee the rest of the way, barring any moves that the team could make.

The Eagles will be taking on the rival Dallas Cowboys this week, hosting the team on Monday Night Football. Both the Eagles and Dallas come in with a record of 2-4 on the season, with the winner moving up in the NFC East standings.

Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for the Eagles to stop the bleeding this week against Dallas:

1. Running Game Has to Get Going

With the Eagles missing multiple pieces on offense, one way to generate anything is to get the running game going strong. Against a shaky Cowboys defense, the Eagles should look to take advantage by establishing the run early on in the contest.

Philadelphia may get star running back Saquon Barkley back for the game, which could provide this team with a major spark. But if Barkley isn't able to go in this game against Dallas, the Eagles have to figure out someway to generate the ground game; otherwise, it could be another tough outing for the team.

2. Defense Has to Lead the Charge

Given that the Eagles are without Hurts, the defense is going to have to take charge once again this week. Philadelphia's defense kept them in the game a week ago against the Panthers, and they will need to do the same against the Cowboys.

The Eagles have a strong defensive unit that can cause damage, so pressuring quarterback Dak Prescott will be key. Dallas does have plenty of playmakers that could cause problems, but if Philadelphia wants to stop the bleeding this week, it will need to start on defense.

3. Hope Tanner McKee Looks More Comfortable

Against the Panthers, McKee didn't look comfortable for most of the game, and this was a problem for the offense. But McKee still threw for 215 yards and one touchdown, without giving the ball away through the air.

In this game against the Cowboys, if McKee can slow the game down against a Dallas defense that has been susceptible to allowing yards, it could give the Eagles a chance. McKee isn't going to save Philadelphia in all likelihood, but if he can play clean football, it would at least put the team into position to get the win.