Schematically, the Cowboys love the zone run game. They try to get defenders in the front seven to move east and west instead of flying downhill. When they get on the move, the offensive line creates seals and alleys up front. Elliott just has to stick his foot in the ground and get north to pick up chunks of yards. That is the foundation of what they do. Whether it's outside zone or inside zone, expect to see plenty of these types of runs in this game. It will be important for the Eagles' defensive line to set strong edges and force the action back inside. At the second and third levels, defenders must stay disciplined in their gaps and not overrun plays. That's what the zone run game can do to a defense. If everyone does their job, the Eagles can keep him grounded, but that is often easier said than done.

The other schemes the Cowboys rely on are different varieties of "G" (guard), where the offense uses both the left and right guards as pullers to the play side of runs. This allows Elliott to have large lead blockers out in front. The Cowboys have the athletes to pull it off up front. Dallas is missing Pro Bowl center Travis Frederick, who hasn't played a down this season, but Zack Martin is one of the best in the league at what he does. He's the right guard and will see plenty of Fletcher Cox in this game. That's a big matchup to watch in the trenches. At left guard, rookie Connor Williams has been up and down in his first season, mainly struggling with power inside as he makes the adjustment from left tackle (where he played collegiately at Texas) to left guard. Tyron Smith is still one of the best in the league at left tackle. Back injuries have taken their toll, but he is still a force up front with his combination of size and athleticism, as well as technique. Right tackle La'el Collins is a tough road grader who plays with a mean streak. He can be had off the edge in pass protection, but he will get after people at the point of attack.