Troy Aikman Downplays Cowboys' Victory Over Eagles
Hall of Famer Troy Aikman suggests the Dallas Cowboys' win was expected against a depleted Philadelphia Eagles team.
Dallas Cowboys legend Troy Aikman cautioned against overstating the significance of the Cowboys' 38-21 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night. Aikman suggested that the win, while notable, should be viewed in the context of the Eagles' numerous injuries and absences.
"Eh, not really, and I don’t mean that as a negative. This is a beat-up Philadelphia team. To come in here and win tonight, I mean, let’s not get carried away," Aikman stated.
The Eagles entered the matchup with several key players sidelined. Starting quarterback Jalen Hurts has been ruled out for the season due to a blood clot. Offensive lineman Cam Jurgens was traded, and veteran right tackle Lane Johnson had abruptly retired. Running back Saquon Barkley sustained a back injury just nine snaps into the game after missing previous contests with a hamstring issue. Backup Tanner McKee also started at quarterback for Philadelphia.
Aikman expressed surprise that the Eagles' defense did not offer more resistance but acknowledged that the outcome was largely predictable given the circumstances. "They did what you would expect them to do," he said.
He added that the Cowboys' defense, which allows an average of 25.7 points per game, ranking 23rd in the NFL, still has room for improvement. "But that’s going to be the key to this team is how far along can this defense come between now and when the playoffs roll around, if they get in," Aikman commented.
The win improved the Cowboys' record to 3-4. They are scheduled to play the Arizona Cardinals next on Sunday.