The 2025 NFL season roared to life with a Thursday night thriller as the Philadelphia Eagles clashed with the Dallas Cowboys in a game packed with jaw-dropping moments, heart-pounding plays, and a few head-scratching miscues. Despite an injury, an ejection, and a game delay, the Eagles soared to a 24-20 victory, setting the tone for their campaign. From standout performances to costly mistakes, this Eagles-Cowboys showdown had it all. Let’s break down the best and worst from a night that left fans buzzing.
Sep 4, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) hands off the ball to running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the third quarter of the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
The Best: Stars Shine Bright
Jalen Hurts – Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts was nothing short of electric, especially in the first half, where he commanded the field with precision and poise. The Eagles’ quarterback went 19-for-23 passing for 152 yards, showcasing his arm strength and decision-making. But Hurts wasn’t just a passer—he was a dual-threat dynamo, racking up 62 yards on 14 carries and punching in two rushing touchdowns. With zero turnovers and clutch plays when it mattered most, Hurts proved why he’s the heartbeat of this Eagles squad.
Zack Baun – Philadelphia Eagles
Fresh off an All-Pro season, Zack Baun wasted no time reminding everyone of his defensive prowess. Leading the Eagles with nine tackles, including one for a loss and a pass defended, Baun was a force all over the field. His highlight-reel moment came when he chased down a Cowboys runner to prevent a surefire touchdown, a play that shifted momentum and showcased his relentless hustle.
Jihaad Campbell – Philadelphia Eagles
Rookie Jihaad Campbell stepped into his first NFL start and delivered like a seasoned veteran. With three tackles, a pass defended, and a forced fumble, Campbell announced his arrival in style. His energy and instincts gave the Eagles’ defense an extra spark, proving he’s a name to watch in 2025.
Javonte Williams – Dallas Cowboys
On the Cowboys’ side, running back Javonte Williams earned his starting role and made an immediate impact. Scoring two touchdowns, including the first of the 2025 NFL season, Williams gave Dallas fans something to cheer about, even in defeat. His explosive runs kept the Cowboys’ offense in the fight.
The Worst: Missteps That Stung
Jalen Carter – Philadelphia Eagles
The night wasn’t without its low points, and Jalen Carter’s ejection takes the cake. Before the Eagles’ defense could even take the field, Carter was sent to the locker room for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. His absence left a void in Philadelphia’s defensive line, forcing others to step up in a game that demanded every ounce of effort.
Miles Sanders – Dallas Cowboys
In an ironic twist, former Eagles running back Miles Sanders found himself on the wrong side of the highlight reel. His fumble, just before a game delay, marked the only turnover of the night and stalled a promising Cowboys drive. It was a costly mistake that shifted momentum at a critical moment.
Dallas Cowboys – A Tale of Two Halves
The Cowboys showed flashes of brilliance, with their offense firing on all cylinders for much of the game and their defense clamping down after the delay. But miscues and missed opportunities ultimately left them with a loss in the standings. Despite their talent, Dallas couldn’t string together the complete performance needed to topple their rivals.
A Night to Remember
The Eagles-Cowboys opener was a rollercoaster of emotions, delivering everything fans love about the NFL: dazzling plays, costly errors, and edge-of-your-seat drama. Philadelphia walks away with the 24-20 win, but both teams showed they’re ready to make noise in 2025. If this game is any indication, the NFC East rivalry is as fierce as ever, and the season ahead promises more fireworks. Buckle up!