Cowboys vs. Eagles: Tony Romo Needs a Win over Division Rivals

This week, the Dallas Cowboys have a huge game against the Philadelphia Eagles.  This is a big game for the Cowboys, but it could be even bigger for Tony Romo.  

Romo really needs this game, and here are some reasons how Romo can win this game for the Cowboys and why this is a huge game for Tony Romo.

Romo Needs to Rely on the Running Game

Last week, DeMarco Murray had a breakout game, as he put up 252 yards against the St. Louis Rams. 

The Cowboys have had trouble running the ball all season up until last week, and they face the Eagles, who have struggled against the run all season.

This is significant for Tony Romo, as a good running game will open up the passing game. 

If the offensive line and DeMarco Murray can come through, that can set up opportunities for Romo to stretch the field and for Miles Austin and Dez Bryant to have big games.

Romo Cannot Force Throws

For many Cowboy fans, they have seen Tony Romo force throws one after the other, many times resulting in interceptions, as he tries to throw the ball between defenders. 

While the Eagles’ dream-team defense has been a major disappointment, Romo cannot force throws with a secondary featuring Namdi Asomugha and Asante Samuel. 

If he does, we could see resurgence in that Eagles defense, and Romo could end the day with a few interceptions.

Romo Needs to Target Jason Whitten

One big reason for the struggles of the Philadelphia Eagles defense is their weak linebacker corps. 

Tony Romo can exploit this weakness of the Eagles by targeting Jason Whitten in the middle of the defense. 

Whitten has a clear mismatch on any linebacker he is matched up against, and if the Eagles' coverage cannot handle him, he could command a double team, which could open things up for the Cowboys offense.

Romo Can Close in on NFC East Lead

Right now, the Dallas Cowboys are one game behind the New York Giants for the lead in the NFC East. 

While the Giants play the Dolphins this week, they have a significantly tougher schedule than the Cowboys from here on out, as they still face New Orleans, Green Bay, New England and San Francisco. 

This week could be the perfect opportunity for Tony Romo to lead his Cowboys one step closer to the division crown.

Romo Needs to Silence Critics

I wrote an article at the beginning of the season about the failures of Tony Romo late in the game.

I say that acknowledging that I am a critic of Tony Romo. 

With that being said, I am begging for Tony Romo to shut me up. 

This week, the Cowboys face one of their biggest rivals in the Philadelphia Eagles in their building on NBC’s Sunday night Game of the Week. 

Romo has to go in there, have a big game and lead his Cowboys to the victory if he’s going to overcome the stigma that he is not a big-game quarterback.