In a week 17 matchup, the Dallas Cowboys will host the Philadelphia Eagles for the NFC East title.
The matchup, which will be played in Dallas, will be a must-win game for each team. Both the Cowboys and Eagles are in a win or go home situation. The winner will represent the NFC East in the playoffs the following week, whereas the losing team will be sitting home watching on the couch.
The Cowboys are no strangers to this situation. The game between the Cowboys and Eagles next week will mark the third season in a row where the Cowboys could either win and go to the playoffs, or lose and miss the cut. In each of the past two seasons, the Cowboys failed to win a must-win game.
In 2011, the Cowboys traveled to New York, where the Giants dominated Dallas. The Giants won 31-14 and progressed to defeat the Patriots in the Superbowl.
Again, in 2012, the Tony Romo led Cowboys had an opportunity to beat the Washington Redskins to make the playoffs. In the end, Robert Griffin III and the Redskins offense proved to be too much for the Cowboys defense to handle. Additionally, Romo’s three interceptions sealed the Cowboys’ playoff hopes.
Now, Dallas hopes to forget the past and prove to the many doubters they can make the playoffs by winning a must-win game. If the Cowboys fail, Jason Garrett and the rest of the coaching staff will likely be fired.
For the Eagles, getting an opportunity to play for a playoff spot is a huge accomplishment. Led by offensive-minded head coach Chip Kelley, the Eagles began the season at 3-5, however a quarterback switch led to the emergence of Nick Foles and a playoff opportunity for the Eagles.
The last time the Eagles played the Cowboys, the Eagles nearly got shutout losing 3-17. Although, the Eagles are a different team now after winning six of their last seven games.
Next week’s game between the Cowboys and Eagles is sure to be an exciting game and pivotal for both organizations.