The Redskins may have the same record as two of their NFC East foes, but they certainly don’t look like they can compete with the rest of the division going forward. So who has the best chance to win the NFC East? New York Giants (5-2)
Why they’ll win »
Eli Manning said he belongs among the elite quarterbacks, and he’s backing up his claim. His 102.1 passer rating is behind only Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady. The Giants led the league with 42 turnovers last year, but they have committed only nine so far this season.
Why they won’t win » New York is usually known for winning in the trenches, but the Giants are 30th in rushing yards a game and 28th defending the run. They also have one of the hardest remaining schedules; the rest of their opponents have a combined record of 39-25.
Philadelphia Eagles (3-4)
Why they’ll win » They’ve figured things out defensively. The Eagles allowed 29.8 points a game in their four losses, and each opponent rushed for more than 100 yards. But in Philadelphia’s two straight wins, opponents have averaged just 10 points and 63.5 yards on the ground. Running back LeSean McCoy is also having a breakout year. He’s second in the NFL in rushing yards (754) and third in yards per carry (5.6).
Why they won’t » The Eagles lead the NFL with 17 giveaways, and their minus-7 turnover margin is the worst in the NFC. The Eagles still have to play the Bears, Patriots and Jets at home and the Giants and Cowboys on the road.
Dallas Cowboys (3-4)
Why they’ll win » Dallas has a favorable upcoming schedule. Their next five games: vs. Seahawks, vs. Bills, at Redskins, vs. Dolphins, at Cardinals. Running back DeMarco Murray has averaged 9.9 yards a carry and rushed for 327 yards the last two games to compliment a dangerous passing attack that ranks sixth in the NFL.
Why they won’t » The Cowboys were exposed by the Eagles on Sunday night. Philadelphia outplayed Dallas in every aspect during its 34-7 win. And Dallas has struggled in close games at times this season, losing to the Jets, Lions and Patriots by four points or less.
– Jeffrey Tomik
