NFC East Notebook: Manning growing with offense; Eagles staying dedicated to run game
Every Monday and Friday, theScore's NFL editors will bring you a roundup of everything you need to know from around the division with the NFC East Notebook.
New York Giants
Giants dominate Redskins. After a slow start to the season, the Giants seem to be coming around in all phases of the game. Thursday night's 45-14 win over the the Washington Redskins suddenly has New York back in the conversation of playoff contenders in the NFC East.
Manning rebounding nicely. Coming off what was quite possibly the worst season of his career, quarterback Eli Manning got off to a slow start in 2014. Now, after throwing for 300 yards and four touchdowns against the Redskins, Manning seems to have become comfortable in the Giants' new offense.
Donnell only getting started. Tight end Larry Donnell broke out with seven catches for 54 yards and three touchdowns Thursday night, but says, "There's more coming."
Defense forcing mistakes. Easing some early-season concerns about their ability to slow down opponents, the Giants' defense forced six turnovers Thursday night, and did so against a Washington offense that had been among the league's most productive over the past two weeks.
Washington Redskins
Redskins take a step back. After things had finally started to click, the Redskins took a significant step in the wrong direction Thursday night, losing a 45-14 blowout at home to the division rival Giants.
Depth being exposed. With five costly second-half turnovers, Kirk Cousins seemed to regress from his performances of weeks prior. However, it was the Redskins' lack of depth in combination with those mistakes that gave the game away in Week 4.
Williams dealing with knee strain. Offensive tackle Trent Williams left Thursday's game with what is being called a knee strain, and will undergo further tests to determine the severity of the injury.
Paul suffers concussion. Tight end Niles Paul left Thursday's game with a concussion and, with Jordan Reed still sidelined with a hamstring injury suffered in the season opener, depth at the position is a serious concern.
Philadelphia Eagles
Kendricks not expected to play. A key player in the Eagles' front seven, linebacker Mychal Kendricks remains out with a calf injury and is not expected to play in Sunday's game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Smith finds role inside. Due to injuries, first-round rookie Marcus Smith is moving from edge rusher to inside linebacker. While the transition is unique, and may just be until Kendricks returns, it still gets Smith on the field when he was otherwise unable to do so.
Eagles staying dedicated to running game. Staying committed to his rushing attack regardless of its success in a given game, the offensive philosophy of head coach Chip Kelly has proven to be significantly different than that of his predecessor.
Dallas Cowboys
Murray looking to solve fumbling issues. Losing a fumble in each of his first three games to start the season, and in four consecutive dating back to 2013, DeMarco Murray insists he will get his ball security issue fixed.
Spencer could return Sunday. Defensive end Anthony Spencer will have a chance to play Sunday against the New Orleans Saints, and his potential season debut couldn't come at a better time for a Cowboys defense in desperate need of playmakers.
Claiborne will play after demotion. Cornerback Morris Claiborne left the team after being demoted on the depth chart, but returned shortly after and should see time in nickel sets on Sunday.