In a weekly feature, we'll break down the previous week's game in the NFC East and rank each team based on current perception.
1. Dallas Cowboys (2-3) — It tells you a lot about the division when there are two teams tied for the division lead five weeks into the season, and they both have a losing record. The Cowboys' defense was absolutely atrocious against Denver. Most defenses are, but it's still no excuse. The offense, on the other hand, was spectacular and the emergence of Terrance Williams is a major development for the Cowboys and the offensive line has looked like an NFL offensive line since the addition of Brian Waters a couple of weeks ago. That defense is still bad, but luckily, so are the rest of the defenses in the division. Next up: vs. Washington Redskins.
2. Philadelphia Eagles (2-3) — One of the Eagles' most dynamic players is out for at least a couple of weeks as the oft-injured Michael Vick was injured again after nearly rushing for 100 yards midway through the second quarter, when he left the game with a hamstring injury. That leaves Nick Foles to take snaps under center, which isn't a terrible thing, but it's no Vick, either. The Eagles defense is possibly the worst in the division and the Chip Kelly luster has worn off dramatically since that first half of the season-opening win over Washington. Next up: at Tampa Bay Bucs.
3. Washington Redskins (1-3) — Coming off a bye, the Redskins are still riding a big ol' one-game win streak after a win in Oakland two weeks ago. Robert Griffin III is nowhere close to the RG3 of 2012, and yes, the Redskins' defense is awful, as well. Tony Romo & Co. should feast on the Washington secondary at home on Sunday night. Next up: at Dallas Cowboys.
4. New York Giants (0-5) — Well, the Giants' playoff chances are pretty much cooked. Any team that starts 0-3 doesn't have much of a shot, historically speaking. And 0-5 start? Well, that's pretty much nail-meet-coffin. Eli Manning leads the league in interceptions, the Giants have no running game, and their secondary is putrid. That's a pretty bad combination that leads you to an 0-5 start. Things don't get any easier for the G-men, either, as they turn around and play Thursday night in Chicago with 0-6 very likely on the horizon. Next up: at Chicago Bears.
