The 2025 NFL season is set to launch this Thursday evening, as the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, take on their long-time rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
This matchup marks the first time since the year 2000 that these fierce NFC East rivals have kicked off a season against one another; during that previous encounter, the Eagles dominated the Cowboys, winning 41-14. According to the latest odds from ESPN BET, Philadelphia is favored by 8.5 points—representing the largest point spread for a defending champion in a season opener since the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2021. Star quarterback Jalen Hurts aims to ignite an offense eager to continue its impressive run from last year.
However, recent trends suggest a shift in momentum towards the Cowboys.
Last season saw the Eagles sweep the series, but quarterback Dak Prescott—who was sidelined for both of those games—holds a strong 4-1 record against Philly since 2021, throwing 16 touchdown passes while only tossing a single interception during that stretch.
Will the Cowboys manage to disrupt the champions’ home opener, or will Philadelphia assert dominance and embark on their journey to a second consecutive title with a decisive victory?
Stay tuned throughout the night for live updates, key highlights, and pivotal moments from this thrilling NFL kickoff event.
This article includes contributions from ESPN Research.
