The 2025 NFL season kicked off with a bang as the Philadelphia Eagles faced the Dallas Cowboys in a game filled with drama and intensity. The Eagles, fresh off their 2024 championship win, managed to secure a narrow 24-20 victory, unveiling their championship banner in a ceremony that set the tone for the night.

Key Moments

• Ejection Drama: The game took an unexpected turn when Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott before the first play. This incident set a fiery tone for the rivalry game.
• Weather Delay: A lightning delay added to the unusual start of the season, pausing the game and adding suspense.
• Defensive Struggles: Both teams showed initial defensive vulnerabilities, with the Eagles missing Carter and the Cowboys adjusting without Micah Parsons.

Standout Performances

• Jalen Hurts: The Super Bowl MVP shone with two rushing touchdowns, continuing his record-breaking performances.
• Dak Prescott: Despite the loss, Prescott demonstrated his mobility and resilience, crucial for the Cowboys' offense.

Critical Plays

• Turnover Impact: A fumble recovery by the Eagles' Quinyon Mitchell in the third quarter was pivotal, halting a potential Cowboys scoring drive.
• Missed Opportunities: Cowboys' receiver CeeDee Lamb had a forgettable fourth quarter with multiple dropped passes that could have changed the game's outcome.

Looking Ahead

Both teams showed promising signs and areas for improvement as they prepare for their next games. The Eagles will face the Kansas City Chiefs, while the Cowboys are set to play against the New York Giants.

This game not only highlighted the intense rivalry between the Eagles and Cowboys but also set a high bar for the rest of the NFL season.