Dak Prescott vs. Jalen Hurts: The NFC East Quarterback Debate

ARLINGTON, Texas — As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles this week, the debate over who is the better quarterback in the NFC East looms large: Dak Prescott or Jalen Hurts. Both have had impressive careers, but their playoff performances paint a different picture.

Prescott leads the league in QBR this year and finished second in MVP voting in 2023. He excels in traditional passing statistics, often throwing for more yards and touchdowns than Hurts. Yet, Hurts holds an edge in the playoffs, where his calm demeanor has brought success to the Eagles, including two Super Bowl appearances.

In the regular season, Prescott is regarded as a prolific passer. However, his playoff performances have often left fans disappointed. In contrast, Hurts’s ability to stay level-headed under pressure has made him a clutch performer, evidenced by his team’s post-season success.

The Cowboys and Eagles have met only four times since Hurts became the starter in 2020, with Prescott holding a slight edge in their head-to-head matchups. Prescott’s prowess against weaker teams is notable, but his struggles against winning teams, exemplified by his 2-5 playoff record, highlight an inconsistency that critics point to.

Conversely, Hurts’s stats, particularly a 22-3 touchdown-to-turnover ratio, exhibit his effectiveness. Although Prescott may accumulate more yards, Hurts’s winning record and efficiency complicate the debate.

Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner, reflected on the rivalry, noting that while the Eagles have had locker room issues, their recent success is undeniable. He stated he would gladly trade any turmoil for the wins Philadelphia has accrued, underscoring the idea that winning can resolve internal strife.

With the Cowboys hoping to improve their playoff hopes with a win against their division rival, the outcome could further cement one quarterback’s reputation over the other. As the two teams clash in this significant matchup, all eyes will be on Prescott and Hurts to see who emerges as the leading signal-caller in the NFC East.