Cowboys Upset Eagles in Wildest Finish of the Week
ARLINGTON, Texas — In a game that will be remembered for its wild swings and dramatic conclusion, the Dallas Cowboys pulled off a stunning upset over the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles, 24-21, in a Thursday night thriller that had fans on the edge of their seats until the final seconds.
The Eagles, who entered the game as favorites and reigning Super Bowl champions, looked poised to dominate early, building a 21-0 lead in the first half. But the Cowboys, led by quarterback Dak Prescott and a resilient defense, mounted a furious comeback, erasing the deficit and setting the stage for a chaotic finish.
With the game tied at 21-21 late in the fourth quarter, the Eagles appeared to be driving for a potential game-winning field goal. However, a fumble by star running back Saquon Barkley on a crucial third-down play gave the Cowboys new life. Dallas capitalized on the turnover, marching down the field and setting up kicker Brandon Aubrey for a game-ending field goal as time expired.
The win marks a significant statement for the Cowboys, who were dealing with the absence of star edge rusher Micah Parsons, traded to Green Bay just days before the season opener. Despite the loss, the Eagles showed flashes of their championship pedigree, with quarterback Jalen Hurts connecting on a 51-yard pass to Jahan Dotson that set up a key score.
“It was a rollercoaster of emotions,” said Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who lost his debut as Dallas’ head coach. “Our guys never quit. They believed in each other, and that’s what championship teams do. Tonight, we showed we can compete with anyone in the league.”
Philadelphia, meanwhile, was left to reflect on missed opportunities. The Eagles committed several costly penalties and failed to close out the game when they had the chance. “We had it in our hands,” said Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni. “We just didn’t finish. That’s on me.”
The game was further complicated by a lightning delay in the third quarter, which briefly halted play and added to the drama. Both teams struggled to regain their rhythm after the stoppage, but the Cowboys managed to regroup and deliver when it mattered most.
The victory gives Dallas a 1-0 start to the season and sends a message to the rest of the NFC East. The Eagles, meanwhile, will look to bounce back next week as they prepare for a tough matchup against the Washington Commanders.
“This is why we play the game,” said Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. “It’s not always about who’s favored. It’s about who wants it more. Tonight, we wanted it.”
As the dust settles on one of the wildest finishes of the NFL season, the Cowboys and Eagles have set the bar high for what promises to be a thrilling rivalry in the weeks ahead.