The wait is over — the NFL returns tonight with a primetime NFC East showdown as the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field. Kickoff is set for 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC/Peacock, and bettors are lining up for what could be one of the most-watched season openers in years.
Philadelphia is coming off a statement 2024 campaign that ended with a 40-22 Super Bowl victory over the Chiefs. Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, and one of the league’s most dominant offensive lines are back, meaning expectations remain sky-high. The Cowboys, meanwhile, enter a new era after trading away Micah Parsons in a franchise-shaking move. Dak Prescott leads a revamped roster with George Pickens now lining up opposite CeeDee Lamb.
Game Odds (DraftKings, Sept. 4, 2025)
- Spread: Eagles -7.5
- Moneyline: Eagles -410 | Cowboys +320
- Total: 47.5
Philadelphia has covered four of its last five at home, while the Over has hit in seven of the Cowboys’ last 10 road games.
Quarterback Matchup
- Jalen Hurts (Eagles): 68.7% completions, 2,903 yards, 18 TDs, 5 INTs in 2024, plus 14 rushing touchdowns.
- Dak Prescott (Cowboys): 64.7% completions, 1,978 yards, 11 TDs, 8 INTs in only eight games last season.
Hurts has historically struggled at times versus Matt Eberflus-style defenses, but his ability to extend plays and attack deep makes him dangerous against Dallas’ reshuffled secondary. Prescott, on the other hand, may lean heavily on tight end Jake Ferguson and vertical looks to Pickens, who thrives on back-shoulders and go routes.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Eagles O-Line vs. Cowboys Run Defense: Dallas added Kenny Clark to bolster the interior, but Philly’s massive front remains a mismatch. Expect Barkley to test gaps early and often.
- George Pickens vs. Eagles’ CBs: CeeDee Lamb will command attention inside, freeing Pickens for isolation routes against Adoree’ Jackson. His vertical ability could swing drives.
- Eagles D-Line vs. Cowboys O-Line: Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis anchor a ferocious front against a Dallas line that has talent but questions at tackle. Rookie Tyler Booker will be tested immediately.
Prop Bets to Consider
- Jake Ferguson Over 33.5 receiving yards (-125)
- George Pickens anytime TD (+190)
- Jalen Hurts Over 9.5 rush attempts (-110)
- Saquon Barkley Over 19.5 yards longest rush (-150)
- Jalen Hurts Over 35.5 yards longest completion (-120)
Prediction: Eagles 34, Cowboys 27
Philadelphia’s depth and offensive line should wear down the Cowboys over four quarters, but Dak Prescott’s connection with Pickens keeps Dallas competitive. Look for a late Cowboys score to secure the backdoor cover, with the Eagles ultimately starting their title defense 1-0.