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 (4-4) — The Cowboys had a rare opportunity to win three straight games on Sunday, and of course, they figured out a way to not do that. The game management in the final couple of minutes of the Cowboys' collapse in Detroit was just awful. So was the secondary. So was the offense in the first three quarters. The Cowboys are still the best team in an awful division, but that gap is closing, especially when you consider the season-ending injury to guard Brian Waters. Next up: vs. Minnesota Vikings.
2. Washington Redskins (2-5) — In a bit of a shakeup, the Redskins take over the second spot after giving the Broncos a serious scare into the fourth quarter before imploding. Robert Griffin III regressed a bit after a few really good games, but the Redskins' defense gave Peyton Manning fits all day. The Redskins return home in Week 9 to host a West Coast team with a noon kickoff, which is usually good news for the East Coast team. Next up: vs. San Diego Chargers.
3. New York Giants (2-6) — The Giants enter the bye week after winning two straight following an 0-6 start. They haven't been pretty wins, but they've been wins. Eli Manning has now gone two whole games without throwing an interception as the Giants have allowed just 14 points over those two games. Now, they have a week to rest and they'll get some key players back healthy in Week 10, including running back Andre Brown, who has yet to play this season. Next up: BYE.
4. Philadelphia Eagles (3-5) — Things are a mess right now in Philly. Michael Vick rushed back too soon on Sunday and aggravated his hamstring injury, one he called "the worst" hamstring injury he's ever had. Nick Foles hasn't been medically cleared to play after a concussion, and that leaves the Eagles with third-string QB Matt Barkley. Yuck. Next up: at Oakland Raiders.
