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  • RECAP: A Bizarre Blowout To Win the Division. – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    Photo Courtesy of Eagles Nation on X.

    The last time that Josh Johnson has faced the Eagles was in the 2023 NFC Championship Game after a torn UCL injury suffered by 49ers starting quarterback Brock Purdy at Lincoln Financial Field. The struggles that he had in relief of Purdy in that game surfaced again when he was called into action after to face the Eagles once again on Saturday when Nolan Smith ran over Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota and forced him out of the game with a hand injury.

    Photo Courtesy of Eagles Nation on X. Jan 26, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball against the Washington Commanders during the second half in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

    Saturday’s late afternoon matchup in Landover, Maryland between the Eagles and the Commanders had a little something for everyone. Punishing, late game runs by Saquon Barkley reminiscent of last season’s dominance on the ground. Jake Elliott missing three first half field goal attempts (one that he got a second chance on due to a Commanders off-sides penalty.) A massive brawl after a two-point conversion by the Eagles late in the 4th quarter that was in and of itself a strange call. And Big Dom DiSandro at mid-field making certain that the Eagles players left the game without the contest turning into a five-round UFC Fight, and an uncharacteristic opening-game fumble. 

    And corgi races at halftime? Why not.

    On Saturday evening — the Eagles became the first team to win the NFC East in Back-to-back seasons since they themselves did it twenty-one years ago. Philadelphia has now won the NFC East for the second time in the last three seasons. 

    The 180th meeting between the Commanders and the Eagles started with a fumble on the opening kickoff. Down 3–0 in the first quarter — Hurts found Devonta Smith for a six-yard touchdown pass. In the third quarter — the Eagles took the lead on a fifteen-yard strike to Dallas Goedert. In the 4th quarter — the Eagles and Saquon Barkley took over. After a twelve-yard touchdown run — he ripped off a 48-yard run capped by a 22-yard Tank Bisby scamper. Barkley then converted a two-point conversion.

    After the two-point play was successful and Barkley was slammed to the ground — Darius Cooper and Commanders Defensive Back Will Harris got into a shoving match which then escalated. Washington had two players ejected (Javon Kinlaw and Quan Martin) as well as Steen in the 29–18 Eagles win.

    Saquon Barkley eclipsed 1,000 yards for the second consecutive year as an Eagle finishing the game with 132 yards on 21 carries.

    The post RECAP: A Bizarre Blowout To Win the Division. appeared first on Philadelphia Sports Nation.

    Michael Thomas Leibrandt

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  • As the NFC Playoff Picture Unfolds — New Talent Shines On An Existing Unit. – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    If the Philadelphia Eagles are going to return to the Super Bowl this year and create yet another chapter in the quest for an Eagles dynasty — it’s going to start in the trenches. The Eagles aren’t just built for Tush Pushes — they are built to compete in the trenches each game — which means that they are positioned to win each game.

    Photo Courtesy of Eagles Nation on X.

    When the 6–3 Detroit Lions take the field at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday night — DJ. Reader and Aiden Hutchinson and Detroit’s Defensive Line will not be the only focus on the line. One offense, the Eagles are once again making a late-season push by opening up more and more holes against opposing defenses who are trying to key on Saquon Barkley. On defensive, they have now assembled a unit that will be utilizing an old playbook.

    It’s only been nine months since the Eagles Defensive Line dominated Super Bowl LIX — pressuring quarterback Patrick Mahomes for six sacks and completely owning the Chiefs Offensive Line. It wasn’t just a performance of NFL lore — it was an audition for players like Josh Sweat and Milton Williams to sign large contracts elsewhere.

    Nine months later — in the same week that former Eagles All-Pro Defensive Tackle Clyde Simmons was inducted in the 2025 Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame — the 6–2 Philadelphia Eagles began the second act of the 2025–2026 NFL Season by starting four former 1st Round Selections against the Green Bay Packers. Not even a short retirement could take away Brandon Graham’s place as the longest-tenured Eagle after having been selected in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. No matter what happens this season — his legacy of excellence over fifteen years — helping the Eagles to three Super Bowl appearances and winning two will always make him one of the best that this city has ever seen.

    University of Georgia’s Nolan Smith returned from IR for his first game against the Packers. Smith was drafted Number 30 overall in 2023. In that same Draft — the Eagles acquired Jalen Carter with the overall 9th overall selection.

    Perhaps the biggest splash before the deadline was the addition of former Miami Dolphins Edge Rusher Jaelan Phillips. In Phillips — the Eagles also get another former first-round pick from the Miami Dolphins paired along with recently un-retired Brandon Graham in exchange for a 2026 third-round Draft Pick.

    And the Eagle who recovered the Josh Jacobs fumble with 1:26 remaining in the game? That was Jaelan Phillips.

    The post As the NFC Playoff Picture Unfolds — New Talent Shines On An Existing Unit. appeared first on Philadelphia Sports Nation.

    Michael Thomas Leibrandt

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  • A Line Of the Very Best – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    Eagles•More PHL•News•Unique Columns

    It’s only been nine months since the Eagles Defensive Line dominated Super Bowl LIX — pressuring quarterback Patrick Mahomes for six sacks and completely owning the Chiefs Offensive Line. It wasn’t just a performance of NFL lore — it was an audition for players like Josh Sweat and Milton Williams to sign large contracts elsewhere.

    Feb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun (53) makes a tackle on Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesFeb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun (53) makes a tackle on Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) during the fourth quarter in Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

    Nine months later — in the same week that former Eagles All-Pro Defensive Tackle Clyde Simmons was inducted in the 2025 Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame — the 6–2 Philadelphia Eagles began the second act of the 2025–2026 NFL Season by starting four former 1st Round Selections against the Green Bay Packers. Not even a short retirement could take away Brandon Graham’s place as the longest-tenured Eagle after having been selected in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. No matter what happens this season — his legacy of excellence over fifteen years —helping the Eagles to three Super Bowl appearances and winning two will always make him one of the best that this city has ever seen.

    University of Georgia’s Nolan Smith returned from IR for his first game against the Packers. Smith was drafted Number 30 overall in 2023. In that same Draft — the Eagles acquired Jalen Carter with the overall 9th overall selection.

    Perhaps the biggest splash before the deadline was the addition of former Miami Dolphins Edge Rusher Jaelan Phillips. In Phillips — the Eagles also get another former first-round pick from the Miami Dolphins paired along with recently un-retired Brandon Graham in exchange for a 2026 third-round Draft Pick.

    And the Eagle who recovered the Josh Jacobs fumble with 1:26 remaining in the game? That was Jaelan Phillips.

    Tags: Brandon Graham Clyde Simmons Jaelan Phillips Jalen Carter Nolan Smith Patrick Mahomes Super Bowl LIX

    Categorized: Eagles More PHL News Unique Columns

    Michael Thomas Leibrandt

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  • How The Eagles Fared During The Bye Week – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    Eagles

    It feels good to finally have Eagles football, or practice, back for now. With an extra day off before a trip to Green Bay on MNF, the Eagles have had 15 days since their last game. 

    For a team that didn’t play last weekend, the Eagles came out huge winners of both the trade deadline, and the NFC Standings. 

    Trade Deadline Shopping

    While being rumored (again) to pay the price for Myles Garrett. The Eagles managed to escape the trade deadline without blowing any major capital, and still were able to take advantage of the Jets fire sale. 

    Michael Carter was acquired from the New York Jets alongside a 2027 7th round pick. The Eagles sent back WR John Metchie and a 2027 6th round pick. Acquiring depth in the secondary gives the opportunity to move Cooper DeJean outside and Carter into the slot. We’ll have to wait and see if Carter was acquired to get serious reps, or bolster a position recently tattered with injuries. 

    Jaire Alexander was traded from the Baltimore Ravens. Also coming to Philadelphia is a 2027 7th round pick. For the grand total of a 2026 6th round pick. This move provides the Eagles a 3rd option at CB2 between Kelee Ringo & Adoree Jackson, and still keeps Cooper DeJean in the slot. 

    Jaelan Phillips was the Eagles biggest move before the Tuesday deadline. Only costing a 3rd round pick, the Eagles acquired a 26 year old OLB that has totaled 26 sacks in 5 seasons. Missing time due to injury is a concern, but with multiple DL players returning this weekend the Eagles depth provides plenty of rotational options. 

    The Eagles escaped the deadline acquiring 3 players, and still hold 5 picks heading into the 2026 Draft next April. Including a Jets 3rd round pick and projected to acquire 3 Comp picks in the 3rd, 4th and 5th rounds.

    Returning From Injury

    On top of their trade deadline additions to the team. The Eagles have also managed to get healthy just in time for another gauntlet in the schedule.

    Opening the practice window for Jakorian Bennett, Willie Lampkin and Nolan Smith in the previous weeks provided the Eagles time to juggle their active roster and the practice squad, with depth returning at the right time. 

    With A.J. Brown missing another game this season, add in a concern to Saquon’s health at the end of the Giants game prior to the Bye. There was major concern what the Eagles injury report would look like coming off the Bye week. 

    The good news is, nearly everyone has returned from injury as the following players were full participants

    • Moro Ojomo
    • Saquon Barkley
    • A.J. Brown
    • Jakorian Bennett
    • Nolan Smith
    • Willie Lampkin

    The only players who were DNP at Fridays practice were Adoree Jackson & Cam Jurgens. After giving Dickerson a few weeks of rest, perhaps Jurgens getting some extra time will allow the Eagles Offensive Line to return to being what it once was. The best in the league.

    A Successful Bye Week

    During the Bye, the Eagles jumped all the way up to the #1 seed in the NFC, as most teams that played managed to the Eagles a favor. 

    Even following the Giants game Week 8, the Eagles had some help from their NFC East Rivals. 

    • The Commanders lost 7-28 to the Chiefs and fell to 3-5
    • The Cowboys got blown out by the Broncos 44-24 and fell to 3-4-1

    In Week 9, the following teams helped the Eagles climb the standings 

    • The Vikings (4-4) held on to beat their division rival Lions 27-24(5-3)
    • Carolina (5-4) managed to upset the Packers and send them to 5-2-1
    • Seattle took care of business and sent Washington to 3-6 following a 38-14 rout
    • Jacoby Brissett gave us the icing on the cake, with a 27-17 win over the Cowboys. Sending the 2nd placed team in the NFC East to 3-5-1.

    With an opportunity to grow their lead on the division, and the rest of the NFC with a trip to Green Bay. Will the Eagles come out on top against a Packers team struggling to play their best football?

    Go Birds. 

    Tags: A.J. Brown Adoree Jackson Baltimore Ravens Cam Jurgens Cooper DeJean Eagles Green Bay Packers Jaelan Phillips Jaire Alexander Jakorian Bennett Kelee Ringo Michael Carter II Moro Ojomo Myles Garrett New York Jets Nolan Smith Saquon Barkley Willie Lampkin

    Categorized: Eagles

    Tyler L’Heureux

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  • Bye week self-scout: Keys to Eagles success in second half

    The Eagles are off Sunday while most of the rest of the NFL is involved in Week 9 action. After Monday night’s game, the NFL will have officially reached its halfway point.

    As usual, Eagles players were given the week off, but the coaches use the free time to self-scout and figure out how to build from the things the team did well for the first eight weeks and how to rectify or reverse things that didn’t.

    Like most teams, the Eagles have flaws, but any flawed team would be happy with a 6-2 record, especially with wins over five playoff teams from 2024.

    Here are five self-scouting keys for the Eagles before they return to the practice field next week and start preparing for next Monday night’s game against the Packers at Lambeau Field:

    Keep incorporating an outside run game

    The Eagles finally unlocked their run game against the Giants in Week 8, with Saquon Barkley and Tank Bigsby each going over 100 yards. The under-center formations and extra offensive lineman were beneficial additions to help finally spring the ground game but the better adjustment was a refocus on running the ball outside the tackles. Outside zones, pin-pulls sweeps, and off-tackle runs helped take the burden off the Eagles’ banged-up interior line to generate push up the middle on every snap and allowed Barkley and Bigsby to find space with lead blockers on the outside. Relying more on off-tackle runs is more sustainable and impactful than even using six-man o-lines. Also, keeping Bigsby involved would be a logical move. He’s got more explosion than last year’s top backup, Kenneth Gainwell, and more carries for Bigsby as the season progresses can keep Barkley fresh without the offense losing too much punch.

    Speed up the offense

    The offense is typically at its best when using no-huddle. Jalen Hurts has always been excellent at deciding when to speed up tempo, and when to dial it back. No-huddle has always helped keep the offense on schedule and, at the right times, has prevented the defense from being able to substitute. It wears down opponents and keeps situational pass rushers from getting on the field at any time. The Eagles need to get their plays in quicker in the second half and take advantage of no-huddle to move the chains more efficiently, which should positively impact their third-down offense, which so far this season has been underwhelming.

    Get A.J. Brown more involved, the right way

    The Eagles don’t need to pander to him, per se. This isn’t about the squeaky wheel getting greased. It’s about finding better ways to get the ball in the hands of their most dynamic playmaker on designed pass plays, not just freelance routes or comebacks. For whatever reason, the Eagles haven’t capitalized on Brown’s biggest strength – YAC yards. He’s on pace for just 192 YAC yards, per NFL Pro, which would be the fewest of his career and more than 150 YAC yards fewer than last season. They don’t get him involved enough in the intermediary game, with routes designed to have him catch the ball and turn upfield. Sure, he’s an amazing deep threat on the Go route, but there’s more variety to his game than he’s been able to show in the first half.

    Figure out CB2

    There’s no question the top priority for the Eagles’ defense is figuring out its best option at CB2. Spoiler alert: It isn’t Adoree’ Jackson or Kelee Ringo. The Eagles also traded Sunday with the Ravens for cornerback Jaire Alexander, but buyer beware. The low price tag on the former Packers corner who made three Pro Bowls but only played two games this year is telltale. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio needs to get Jakorian Bennett on the field – and Bennett needs to stay healthy – so the Eagles can find out if they guy traded for in training camp can shore up a very important spot on the defense. If Bennett can be that guy, the Eagles can keep Cooper DeJean in the slot and be comfortable with their nickel package, which is their predominant defense. They’d be better off this way. If Bennett can’t hold down the spot, Fangio needs to bite the bullet and move DeJean outside, with new addition Michael Carter II working the slot.

    Find best four-man pas rush

    The Eagles were at the best defensively last year when Fangio could rely on his four-man rush to disrupt and harass quarterbacks, and then have seven in coverage with a mix of zone and man and post-snap movement. This year, because of injuries and the lack of an elite edge rusher, Fangio has had to blitz more and play more man coverage. That’s a tough way to live when the opponent becomes the Packers, Lions, Cowboys or other teams that have good quarterbacks and an array of playmakers. But Fangio’s edge rush will be getting a boost with the returns of Nolan Smith and Brandon Graham. Jalyx Hunt has played better going into the bye after a so-so start and Josh Uche has played consistently well throughout the season. We’ll see if the Eagles added to this group before the trade deadline. The Athletic reported they’ve checked in on Jaelen Phillips from the Dolphins and Jermaine Johnson from the Jets, along with inquiring on Trey Hendrickson of the Bengals. Either way, Fangio has options and just needs to find the best four-man rush so he can get back to blitzing less and playing more zone.

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  • The Trade Deadline Approaches – Potential Targets For The Eagles – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    Eagles

    The Eagles are 4-2 coming off back to back unfortunate losses. With two opponents that could have been written off as “Easy Wins” at the start of the year are looking to be formidable opponents for a team that’s struggled in all 3 phases since the start of October.

    With the trade deadline coming on November 4th this year. The Eagles will be returning from their bye week with a few additions to the roster. Both from activating players on IR, and hopefully a trade (or two) prior to the Tuesday deadline.

    Returning From Injury 

    After the Week 3 match against the Rams, the Eagles placed three players on Injured Reserve. Nolan Smith, Darius Cooper and Jakorian Bennett. Two players considered to be defensive starters, and the preseason wonder who made the WR4 roster spot.

    The expectation was to see Smith and Bennett return after the Week 9 Bye Week. However, all 3 are able to be activated off of injured reserve as soon as Week 8 against the Giants. 

    Both defensive positions have struggled in recent weeks, perhaps the return of the some depth would help give the Eagles a breath of fresh air on the defense. And if it doesn’t, there’s plenty of teams about to start a fire sale just around the corner.

    Realistic Targets

    It’s unfortunate the Eagles might end up using more assets to find a solution to the CB2 issue. But if Bennett/Ringo/Jackson still aren’t able to successfully play across from Quinyon Mitchell. There’s a few targets in the AFC that might be worth the phone call. 

    Michael Carter II 

    The Jets are already 0-6. There’s no silver lining for their season. Carter is on the first year of a 3 year/$30.750M extension. While primarily playing Nickel for the Jets does open up the opportunity to shift Cooper DeJean to the outside corner opposite Quinyon, if the Eagles wish to solve the problem with a shuffle of personnel.

    Jermaine Johnson II

    While we’re shopping in MetLife, Johnson would be another good pickup for the Eagles to consider. 2 years removed from a 7.5 Sack season that came with 17 QB Hits. On the 4th year of his rookie deal, the Eagles would be given the option of extending a young player to keep along the defensive line, or continue taking advantage of acquiring Comp Picks for future use. 

    Perhaps the Jets own 3rd round pick from the Reddick trade would be sufficient to move the needle on either of these trades. As the pick currently sits at 65th overall in the 2026 draft.

    Bradley Chubb

    On the topic of imploding AFC East franchises. The Dolphins should be the next team on speed dial to make potential moves. Under contract until 2028, Chubb signed a 3 year $54.49M contract with a Dolphins team that just can’t string successful months together.   With their season likely already over, it might be team to reevaluate the roster and start stockpiling picks. 

    Acquiring Chubb also provides Fangio with a player similar to his systems, with multiple years in Denver and a one off year in Miami, the Eagles get added depth to the struggling pass rush.

    The Unrealistic Moves

    Everybody gets outrageously unrealistic trade predictions for their favorite team. So why can’t we? There’s multiple star players available that might disgruntled on struggling teams, and I know just the GM to take advantage of that.

    Trey Hendrickson 

    The Eagles were previously linked to Trey Hendrickson in the offseason. If they weren’t committed earlier in the year, fate has presented them another opportunity. 

    With 17.5 Sacks his previous 2 seasons, and 4 to start the 2025 campaign. There’s a possibility the Bengals are looking to make a move similar to the Micah Parsons trade. If teams like the 49ers and Colts are linked to one of the biggest names on the market. Then the Eagles should circle back. 

    Denzel Ward

    Another pipe dream of a potential trade. The Eagles might’ve been able to skip the Jakorian Bennett trade if they could keep the Browns on the phone. 

    With Gavin Newsome being traded to the Jaguars last week, the Eagles might’ve already missed their chance to move a Browns Cornerback. 

    If there’s a potential to acquire a 4x Pro Bowl corner with 2 more years on a $100M contract the Eagles will have successfully found a Big Play Slay successor and giving Quinyon a reliable partner on the far side of the field. 

    With the Vikings just a few days away. What are your main concerns for the Eagles deadline needs? And how many of their seven tradable picks are you will to move from the 2026 draft?

    Tags: Adoree Jackson Bradley Chubb Cooper DeJean Darius Cooper Denzel Ward Eagles Greg Newsome II Jakorian Bennett Jermaine Johnson II Kelee Ringo Miami Dolphins Michael Carter II New York Jets NFL Nolan Smith Philadelphia Eagles Trey Hendrickson

    Categorized: Eagles

    Tyler L’Heureux

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  • Eagles 2025 Quarter Season Check In  – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    With the TNF game over between the NFC West powerhouses of the LA Rams and SF 49ers. It’s time to check in on the Eagles. Now that we’re entering Week 5, with 25% of the season over with and how the team is shaping up before we get to the Week 9 Trade Deadline.

    So Far So Flawless

    The Eagles are one of two teams entering Week 5 undefeated. Will the week end with the Bills and Eagles at 5-0? One step closer to securing their divisions as quickly as possible?

    Starting 4-0 marks the 3rd time in 5 years that the Sirianni/Hurts era Eagles have come out of the gate strong. But will they sustain this quality of inconsistent play through 13 more games? They’ve started slow before with a 2-2 start that resulted in an 12-1 end to the season. Now that they’re through the “gauntlet” of this year, maybe the team will start to figure things out for 4 full quarters.

    Injuries Piling Up

    After the Rams game, the Eagles placed three players on injured reserve. Including Nolan Smith and Jakorian Bennett. And with Ogbo Okoronkwo expected to miss the rest of the season with a torn triceps during the Buccaneers game, the Eagles defense is slowly getting depleted. Add on that Dallas Goedert continues to intermittently miss practice and the Offensive Line starts to get banged up. It might be a long year ahead. 

    Approaching The Deadline

    With the trade deadline set for November 4th. The Eagles have one month to make any serious additions to the roster before it’s too late. 

    And with 10 picks coming up in the 2026 draft (7 in the first 4 rounds) the Eagles will have plenty of capital to make their final rounds of roster moves if they wish to remain a contender through 2025.

    We’ll see what the Eagles bring to a dip in their strength of schedule. With their next 4 opponents having a combined record of 6-10 (DEN, MIN, NYGx2) when we get to the mid season checkpoint. 

    Go Birds. 

    Tags: Buffalo Bills Dallas Goedert Eagles Jakorian Bennett Jalen Hurts Los Angeles Rams NFC West Nolan Smith Ogbo Okoronkwo Philadelphia Eagles Tampa Bay Buccaneers

    Categorized: Eagles

    Tyler L’Heureux

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  • Know your enemy: Can Eagles EDGEs dominate remade left side of Chiefs OL?

    When the Eagles and Chiefs meet Sunday in Kansas City, they won’t be the exact same squads that met in Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans about seven months earlier, a memorable night for the Eagles as they pounded the two-time reigning champions by a 40-22 score that wasn’t even that close.

    The Eagles are trying to rebuild a top-ranked defense that lost about half its starters in the offseason to free agency or trades. The Chiefs are trying to repair the left side of an offensive line so decimated by injuries come playoffs that coach Andy Reid had moved his All Pro left guard to left tackle and filled the left guard spot with a third-stringer.

    Amazingly, the Chiefs still made it to the Super Bowl despite their offensive line issues, but the short-armed Joe Thuney was no match for the length of Eagles EDGEs Josh Sweat, Jalyx Hunt and the team’s other pass rushers who teed off on Patrick Mahomes. 

    Pressures like this were common throughout the game:

    And like this..

    The Chiefs remade their o-line this offseason, trading Thuney to the Bears and moving 2024 second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia to guard after the former BYU lineman struggled as a rookie and couldn’t get on the field past Week 1. They also used a first-round pick on Ohio State OT Josh Simmons, who was a big-time recruit out of California and one of the most athletic linemen in his class. Simmons suffered a knee injury in October and missed the rest of the season, including Ohio State’s run to a national title. 

    Simmons won the starting LT job and lined up alongside Suamataia last Friday when the Chiefs opened their season in Sao Paolo against the Chargers, a game they’d lose 27-21.

    How improved are the Chiefs on the left side compared to February? It’s a complicated answer. At very least, they have a left tackle who’s actually a left tackle. At left guard, though, Suamataia is nowhere near Thuney’s level.

    The film from Week 1 showed that both young linemen have some progress to make, and the Eagles are probably happy they get to face them earlier in the season.

    The Chiefs showed some communication breakdowns – especially against some stunts and line games, which the Eagles do occasionally – and some technique breakdowns for both linemen.

    Pressure on Mahomes came early for the Chargers – like the first third-down sceanario, a 3rd-and-6 that saw Simmons driven back into the pocket, forcing Mahomes to throw off his back foot with a lot of traffic in his face.

    Both Simmons and Suamataia were driven back to collapse the pocket, making Mahomes release quickly and off the mark at the first-down marker.

    Here’s a schemed pressure with the Chargers overloaded on the left side of the line.

    The Chargers executed a T/E stunt and delayed LB blitz but the real pressure simply came from the DT getting inside Suamataia and then riding him back into Mahomes, who was hit while he threw incomplete.

    Side note: This is also the play where Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy and TE Travis Kelce collided on a mesh concept leading to Worthy’s exit from the game with a dislocated shoulder. He’s listed as doubtful to play Sunday.

    Here’s a pressure from just a three-man rush – a three-man rush!

     

    Simmons gets beat badly off the snap by the edge rusher, forcing Mahomes to step up and then scramble to his left. Naturally, the LB who looked like a blitzer but was actually a dropper and spy saw Mahomes the whole way and was able to outflank Mahomes to make the QB stop dead in his tracks and try to reverse course before getting sacked.

    Every so often, the Chiefs like to go under center and run play-action bootlegs, getting Mahomes out of the pocket, where he’s a sensei with his ability to hurt defenses with a pass or run. There were two instances where the under-center play action did nothing to help Mahomes avoid pressure from the left side.

    Here’s one:

    Simmons badly missed his punch on the EDGE defender, who beat him with a hand swipe and then went into QB pursuit mode. Sure, Mahomes picked up the first down, but he took a major knock at the end of the run. 

    The Eagles don’t have Sweat anymore but Jalyx Hunt and Josh Uche took turns last week lining up over Cowboys LT Tyler Guyton while Jordan Davis lined up over LG Tyler Smith and had one of the best games of his career, although his best rushes came against Cowboys C Cooper Beebe.

    Andy Reid is notorious for not helping out his offensive tackles so he can make the most of his five outlets on every pass play. We’ll see if he makes any adjustments Sunday afternoon or if the Eagles once again dominate the left side of KC’s offensive line.

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  • Could The Eagles Add To The Defensive Line? – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    Could The Eagles Add To The Defensive Line? – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    The problem between the 2022 and 2023 Eagles defense. (Other than not being able to get a single stop most games). Was the change in production from the defensive line.

     

    From having four 10+ Sack players. (Reddick, Sweat, Hargrave & Graham)

    To only a single 10+ Sack player. (Reddick)

    The 2022 Eagles might’ve fallen short of the Bears 72 Sack record in 2022. But they were nowhere close to repeating that total, only recording 43 sacks last year. Ranking 20th league wide.

    There’s plenty of reasons as to what might have fully derailed the Eagles season. Giving up an average of 30.3 points in the final 6 games of the season, including a 32 point defeat to the Buccaneers in the Wildcard round. Somehow, the team that gave up the least passing yards in 2022, with an average of 171.6 yard against per game. Became the team that gave up the 3rd most, with 255.7 passing yards against in 2023.

     

    Overuse Down The Stretch

    The Eagles defensive line finished the season injured and not as deep as it started. After playing multiple overtime games, the Eagles were never the same following the win against Buffalo. Where the Defense played 95 Snaps, and what seemed like the point of no return for the season.

    Below is the DL and its share of snap counts across the season

    Player Total Snaps Snap % Snaps Played Vs Buffalo
    Haason Reddick 862 74.18% 83
    Josh Sweat 828 71.26% 81
    Fletcher Cox 684 58.86% 22
    Jalen Carter 563 48.45% 76
    Jordan Davis 519 44.66% 62
    Milton Williams 494 42.51% Missed Game
    Brandon Graham 395 33.99% 26
    Nolan Smith 188 16.18% 11
    Marlon Tuipulotu 162 13.94% 32
    Derek Barnett 99 8.52% Cut/Signed with HOU
    Kentavius Street 87 7.49% Traded To ATL
    Moro Ojomo 68 5.85% Missed Game

    Had the Eagles not over-relied on their starters and played more of their depth. Perhaps the major burnout at the end of the year would have saved them from not being able to get off the field. Add on the fact they traded away Street and Cut Barnett at the trade deadline. The Eagles defense was without 2 more players to pick up the snaps.

     

    This Years Additions

    Much like the last few seasons, the Eagles have successfully drafted players before their predecessor’s had retired. From Kelce to Jurgens. Cox to Davis/Carter.

    Now that the Eagles have gone and made acquisitions throughout the offseason. They’ve been able to add Bryce Huff, Jalyx Hunt and Julian Okwara to the OLB position. With the expectation Nolan Smith will also see a larger role in his 2nd season, similar to his fellow Bulldog teammates.

    But with countless DBs and only so many roster spots available. It feels like the Eagles further additions could come along the defensive line. (When haven’t they). Additions such as Genard Avery, Ndamukong Suh, Robert Quinn, Linval Joseph have all been acquired throughout the last few seasons.

    You can’t always prevent injuries, and if defense wins championships. Then depth could be necessary down the stretch. Could a name like Chase Young come up in a few months if the Saints finally blow it up? Or perhaps the Eagles go big game hunting and see if the Chargers are committed to a rebuild, and are interested in shopping Khalil Mack?

     

    There’s still a long way to go till the Week 9 Trade Deadline. But Eagles training camp begins next week, and then we’ll finally get our first taste of the Eagles season to come that is just around the corner.

     

    Photo Credit: Cooper Neill / Getty Images

     

     

     

     

    Tyler L’Heureux

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  • 3 Weeks From The Draft. Who Might The Eagles Take With Pick #22 – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    3 Weeks From The Draft. Who Might The Eagles Take With Pick #22 – Philadelphia Sports Nation

    With three weeks until the NFL draft.
    Rosters are beginning to take shape and some clear picks are beginning to show.

    With the Bears, Patriots and Commanders expected to take their QBs of the future. There will be a long way to go to see who might fall to the Eagles with the 22nd overall pick.

     

    While the Eagles have recently ended the conversation whether they would trade Reddick or Sweat. Another hole has opened in the depth of the roster.

    Sure the Eagles have already signed Bryce Huff to a $51M deal and have Nolan Smith waiting in the wings after only playing 188 defensive snaps in his rookie season. Barely seeing an increase in playtime after the Eagles had waived Derek Barnett prior to their Week 11 game against Buffalo. 

    Laiatu Latu – Edge, UCLA

    Re-filling the edge-rusher position after trading away Reddick, with Brandon Graham on his final season all while not knowing what you have in Smith and Huff is probably one of the best options for the Eagles at #22. Similar to drafting Davis and Carter in lieu of Hargrave and Cox departures in the last two seasons.

    The biggest area of concern regarding Latu is from a neck injury he suffered during a preseason workout in 2020. An injury that had the University of Washington medical staff refusing to medically clear him to continue playing.

    The Eagles have had multiple instances of drafting players with this warning, including Josh Sweat and Nakobe Dean. 

    If the Eagles don’t believe that Huff and Smith are able to take over enough of the defensive snaps. Bringing in Latu could be the final piece to a new defensive line. 

    NFL.com has multiple mock drafts with Latu going to the Rams at 19 and 24, as well as the Buccaneers at 26. He might fall perfectly within the Eagles range.

     

    Kool-Aid McKinstry – CB, Alabama

    After the disastrous end to the Eagles season. It’s clear a new CB might be needed on the roster. They’ve already gone and re-signed C.J. Gardner Johnson and now brought back Avonte Maddox as well.

    James Bradberry was “part of the plan” when Howie Roseman spoke at the combine, but things can always change by September.

    There’s plenty of available Cornerbacks in this draft. From Quinyon Mitchell, Nate Wiggins, Cooper DeJean and McKinstry are all projected to go in the late 1st round per NFL.com’s mock drafts. 

    Much like Latu. The Eagles may have to look at trading up if they wanted to go after Mitchell in the draft. However, if they wanted to move back in the 1st, McKinstry could be available past 22nd. Allowing the Eagles to regain assets later in the draft.

    With Bradberry and Slay still under contract for multiple seasons. The Eagles should be looking to drafting their predecessors like they have on the defensive line. Unless Eli Ricks or Kelee Ringo have breakout sophomore seasons, a long-term solution needs to be put in place alongside Reed Blankenship and Sydney Brown in the secondary. McKinstry could be that answer, and could even allow them to trade Bradberry before the start of the season. Rumors have swirled about the Eagles landing Surtain from the Broncos, but I’d prefer to draft and acquire a starting caliber player still on a rookie deal.

     

     

    No Offensive Picks?

    The offence may not have been able to score at will last season. But the Eagles defense hemorrhaged yards and points beyond belief last year. Was it all on coaching?

    The Eagles have already gone and signed Saquon Barkley, DeVante Parker, Matt Hennessy and Parris Campbell plus more additions for the offense. Taking another day one defensive pick won’t hurt an offense that recently extended two players on the offensive line. With Mailata, Dickerson and Jurgens all under contract for multiple years. There’s multiple options for the Eagles to find a Right Guard late in the draft if Steen hasn’t won the starters spot.

    The Eagles will still have 7 draft picks following the 22nd pick. Where they’ve been able to make successful picks in the later rounds, including 2 more picks in the the top 60.

     

    Who do you have the Eagles drafting in the 1st round?

     

     

     

     

    Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez / USA Today Sports

    Tyler L’Heureux

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  • No. 1 Georgia, No. 2 Tennessee put title hopes on the line

    No. 1 Georgia, No. 2 Tennessee put title hopes on the line

    ATHENS, Ga. — Georgia coach Kirby Smart just smiled and shook his head when asked if he has stressed conditioning in preparation for Saturday’s visit from Tennessee and its fast-paced offense.

    Smart knows that one week would not have been enough to prepare his Bulldogs for the challenge in the much-anticipated matchup between No. 1 Georgia and No. 2 Tennessee. That extra conditioning work began last summer and has continued through the season.

    “If they’re not in shape, then you did something wrong long before (this week),” Smart said. “So we’ve been building towards this week … since week one, the conditioning level of our players has been a concern every week for me. It’s one of the major concerns, Are you in good enough shape? Because if you’re not, you can’t make it up in one week.”

    Led by quarterback Hendon Hooker, Tennessee (8-0, 4-0 Southeastern Conference, No. 1 College Football Playoff) averages a play about every 10 seconds, making it difficult for defenses to substitute players. The pace wears down defenses, helping the Vols lead the nation with 49.4 points per game.

    Hooker said the Vols are “playing with a chip on our shoulder day in and day out. We just always feel like we have something to prove and that just fuels us to go work hard every day.”

    Georgia (8-0, 5-0, No. 3 CFP) has reloaded after having eight players from its national championship defense selected in this year’s NFL draft, including five in the first round. Overall, Georgia had a record 15 players taken in the draft.

    Despite the heavy losses on defense, the Bulldogs rank second in the nation with their average of 10.50 points allowed.

    Neither team is one-dimensional. Tennessee’s defense is coming off perhaps its best game of the season in a 44-6 rout of then-No. 19 Kentucky last week.

    Led by senior quarterback Stetson Bennett, Georgia ranks sixth in the nation with its average of 41.6 points per game and second, behind Tennessee, with 530.1 yards per game.

    Balance has both teams in position to contend for SEC and national championships. Even so, the spotlight will be on the Vols’ high-scoring offense — and the conditioning of the Bulldogs’ defense.

    “We’re going to find out on Saturday if we’re in shape or not,” Smart said. “I can promise you that because they’re going to try and get a lot of snaps in.”

    Hooker’s leadership on the field has helped the Vols require 2 minutes or less on 35 of their 63 scoring drives this season.

    Hooker passed for five touchdowns in Tennessee’s 52-49 win over then-No. 3 Alabama on Oct. 15.

    “He’s become a guy that’s operating as highly and as effectively as anybody in the country,” said Tennessee coach Josh Heupel of Hooker.

    HONORING DOOLEY AND TRIPPI

    Former longtime Georgia coach and athletic director Vince Dooley, who died at 90 on Oct. 28, will be remembered in a moment of silence before the game. Also, Georgia players will wear a patch on their uniforms honoring Dooley, who was coach when Georgia won the 1980 national championship. Dooley led the Bulldogs to six SEC titles.

    Georgia players will also wear a helmet decal honoring another former Georgia legend, Charley Trippi, who was 100 when he died on Oct. 19.

    HOOKER IN CHARGE

    Hooker transferred to Tennessee from Virginia Tech to play for Jeremy Pruitt and stuck around to play for Heupel. It’s paid off for both coach and quarterback.

    Hooker is 14-5 as a starter since coming off the bench last season. He has thrown 219 passes this season with only one interception, and he leads the SEC with his average of 334.5 yards of total offense.

    Hooker leads the nation with 10.7 yards per pass attempt and his 292.2 yards passing per game ranks third in the SEC. He also leads the nation with 23 plays of 30 yards or longer and 15 passes of 40 yards or longer.

    GEORGIA INJURY UPDATE

    Georgia lost outside linebacker Nolan Smith, the team’s leader with three sacks, to a second-ending torn right pectoral muscle in last week’s 42-20 win over Florida.

    Wide receiver Adonai Mitchell (ankle), who has missed four of the last five games, LT Amarius Mims (knee) and RB Kendall Milton (quad) also are trying to return from injuries.

    SECOND QUARTER SOLVED

    Tennessee has solved its second-quarter woes. The Vols were outscored 143-109 in the second quarter in 2021. This season, Tennessee has outscored opponents 141-41 in the second quarter.

    The Vols rank second in the nation with their average of 17.63 points in that quarter. Oregon is first with 17.75.

    Tennessee leads the nation by outscoring its opponent by an average of 12.5 points in the second quarter, just ahead of Georgia’s 10.13.

    WATCH HYATT

    Tennessee will have wide receiver Cedric Tillman back for a second straight game after needing surgery to fix a sprained ankle. But sophomore Jalin Hyatt has filled in quite capably in Tillman’s absence.

    Hyatt leads the nation with 14 TD catches, four more than the next closest receiver. He ranks fourth with 114.4 yards receiving per game and 907 yards receiving. He needs just 93 yards to become the 10th in school history to reach 1,000 yards in a season.

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    More AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/college-football and https://twitter.com/AP—Top25

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