2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 18

The Indianapolis Star
The Indianapolis Star
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NFL picks and predictions
NFL picks and predictions – Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images

Dallas Cowboys (11-5) at Philadelphia Eagles (9-7)

Saturday, January 8, 8:15PM ET

Two weeks ago, the Dallas Cowboys embarrassed the Washington Football Team in blowout fashion. It seemed like they were back, ready to run rampant on their way to the playoffs. Then they lost to the limping Arizona Cardinals. Where does that leave them heading into Week 18?

It leaves them needing to figure some things out. Unfortunately, they don’t have the luxury of a cupcake matchup in the final week of the regular reason to fine-tune. Instead, they’ll face the Philadelphia Eagles, who will be hoping to improve their seeding, gain some additional momentum, and hurt their divisional rivals in the process.

Dak Prescott needs to get his act together. The Cowboys also need to figure out how to make consistent stops on offense, including getting some better coverage from Trevon Diggs. It wouldn’t hurt if they also found a way to get the run game more involved. Either way you spin it, Dallas some serious ground to cover this upcoming weekend.

Technically, a win won’t do anything for the Eagles. The only way they move up is if the San Francisco 49ers lose, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t something on the line in Week 18. Philadelphia pulls off a big win to hinder the Cowboys and ensure they’re firing on all cylinders before Wild Card week.

Prediction: Eagles win 34-32 | Spread: Cowboys (-7)