Troy Aikman Criticizes Cowboys’ Win Over Eagles: “It Was Gifted”

The Dallas Cowboys’ recent 24–21 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles sparked debate across the NFL, with former Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman calling the win “gifted” and questioning aspects of the game. While Dallas celebrated a thrilling comeback, some analysts are scrutinizing how the win came about, drawing attention to controversial calls and missed opportunities by the Eagles.

Baker Mayfield Injury Update

Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers received a sigh of relief regarding quarterback Baker Mayfield. Mayfield suffered a shoulder injury during the first half of Tampa Bay’s Week 12 blowout loss to the Los Angeles Rams, a 34–7 defeat that raised concerns about the quarterback’s availability moving forward.

An MRI performed the following day revealed that Mayfield had sustained a low-grade AC joint sprain in his left shoulder, with no additional structural damage. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, “The MRI for Bucs QB Baker Mayfield (AC joint sprain) showed no additional damage, per sources. His status remains uncertain for Week 13 but without long-term concern.”

NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport confirmed the assessment: “Good news with an eye toward next week… in the words of one source, ‘As good as anyone could hope.’”

Mayfield’s Consistency at Stake

Since becoming the Buccaneers’ starting quarterback in 2023, Mayfield has started 45 consecutive regular season and playoff games. The injury raises questions about whether he will be able to maintain that streak, especially with Tampa Bay’s upcoming schedule proving challenging.

During the second half against the Rams, veteran backup Teddy Bridgewater took over under center as Mayfield watched from the sideline in street clothes, his left arm in a sling. Mayfield had initially injured the shoulder at the end of a run and aggravated it during a failed Hail Mary attempt at the end of the first half.

Bridgewater’s Role Under Scrutiny

If Mayfield is sidelined, the Buccaneers may be forced to rely on Teddy Bridgewater, a former first-round pick of the Minnesota Vikings in 2014. Bridgewater, 33, was a surprise addition to Tampa Bay this season, signing with the team on August 5 and quickly surpassing Kyle Trask to become the primary backup quarterback.

However, Bridgewater’s recent starting experience is limited. He has not started a game since 2022 with the Miami Dolphins and has a 33–32 record over 11 NFL seasons. His last full-time starting season came with the Denver Broncos in 2021, when he went 7–7 in 14 starts. Analysts remain skeptical about his ability to lead the Buccaneers effectively if Mayfield misses any games. CBS Sports’ Jake Winderman tweeted, “You cannot tell me that Teddy Bridgewater is currently better than Kyle Trask.”

Outlook for Week 13

The Buccaneers will return home in Week 13 to face the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday Night Football. Mayfield’s availability remains uncertain, with reports indicating that pain management will be key. Fox Sports’ Greg Auman noted, “It’s largely a pain management concern for Baker Mayfield and an AC joint sprain in his non-throwing shoulder. Not necessarily back Sunday but fortunate to avoid a long-term absence.”

Tampa Bay Times reporter Rick Stroud echoed the sentiment: “It will be a pain management issue, so it remains to be seen if Mayfield can play Sunday. But overall, it’s not the worst news for sure.”

Buccaneers’ Recent Struggles

The injury comes amid a difficult stretch for the Buccaneers, who have lost three consecutive games, dropping their record to 6–5 after starting the season 5–1. This slump has allowed the Carolina Panthers to catch up in the NFC South Division, leaving Tampa Bay in a tie for first place.

Conclusion

While Dallas Cowboys fans celebrated a dramatic comeback, Troy Aikman’s comments highlight how contentious NFL victories can be interpreted differently. For the Buccaneers, the focus now shifts to Baker Mayfield’s recovery and the readiness of Teddy Bridgewater to step in if necessary. With the Week 13 matchup against Arizona looming, Tampa Bay must carefully manage its quarterback situation to maintain its playoff hopes while keeping players healthy.