NFC east.(NFL)

DALLAS COWBOYS

Coach Bill Parcells has made it clear he's going to split the running load among three players. Julius Jones will be the feature back, getting 18 to 20 carries per game, but Marion Barber will get at least one series per half and some third-down plays. Barber has gained Parcells' respect and trust because he's a willing blocker, a punishing runner and a good receiver. The Cowboys would love to get Barber 10 carries per game and Tyson Thompson five. ... ILB Bradie James is having a breakout season. He is an explosive hitter and leads the team in tackles. In the past, he was robotic in pass coverage because he didn't understand the nuances of route combinations and how to function within the defense. But he has spent more time studying this season, and it has paid off. PROBLEM SPOT. The Cowboys have to get better production from their red zone offense. They like to give the ball to Barber inside the 20 because he's a more physical runner than Jones, who couldn't score on three straight runs from the 1 against the guns. Barber had two touchdowns against Detroit and has five in the past three games.--Jean-Jacques Taylor

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

QB Mike McMahon started in place of Donovan McNabb (sports hernia) against the Giants and played a strong second half after two rough quarters. McMahon has excellent mobility and has played in several versions of the West Coast offense--both in college and with the Lions. He would get more opportunities if McNabb decided to have surgery and end his season. ... LB Justin Ena has taken LB Zeke Moreno's roster spot Ena can fill in better as a backup in the middle and is just as good, if not better, on special teams. ... WR Billy McMullen has been promoted to slot receiver. His size (6-4, 210) is perfect for the position, and his confidence--which had been waning--has increased as he has made plays downfield. PROBLEM SPOT: The offseason losses of DE Derrick Burgess and DT Corey Simon hurt the team's pass rush, and there has been no pressure from the inside--the defensive tackles haven't recorded a sack in six straight games. The play of rookie DE Trent Cole gives the team hope, but his speed off the edge does nothing to help in the middle.--Mark Eckel

NEW YORK GIANTS