Because the Eagles and their evening opponent, the Washington Redskins, make up half of their respected division, there were two other NFC East members to keep an eye on yesterday. In this brief pre-game article, a recap of the Eagles’ rivals and their performances this week is provided:

To start with somewhat disappointing news, the Dallas Cowboys were able to record a victory Sunday. They have now won two straight games, and this week’s came against the potent Atlanta Falcons. Despite their disappointing win streak (at least for Philadelphia fans), the Cowboys remain–at least temporarily–within passing distance in the division race. The Eagles will get their first chance to play Dallas for themselves in three weeks.

The division-leading New York Giants (pictured vs. Arizona), who have been quite consistent throughout the season, dropped their second straight game yesterday night in front of a national audience versus the 2008 NFC Champions, the Arizona Cardinals. This loss comes at the pleasure of Eagle supporters, as the “G-Men” now stand at a 5-2 record and have a less than convincing grip of the NFC East. With New York’s stumble, the Eagles have been provided with a great chance to stay in a fierce competition for the Eastern title, and give themselves a comfortable sense heading into the upcoming schedule of games they have (November 1st: vs. Giants; November 8th: vs. Cowboys; November 15th: @ Chargers).

Again, this situation must be exploited with a victory tonight, and of course, as displayed last week, no game should be taken for granted. Nevertheless, the Eagles have been thrown a grand opportunity at staying in the fight for their division, and that proves that last weekend’s dismal loss does not equal a lost season.