EAGLES WIN! EAGLES WIN! EAGLES WIN! I can finally write an article with positive vibes! First off, winning games like this one with the amount of travel involved (coast to coast) is extremely difficult to achieve, and that’s not even considering COVID-19 along the way. The time zone change is one huge factor for sure in why teams tend to struggle in these games. With that being said, let’s get rolling!
Defense
Coming in to this game, it had to be low scoring for Philadelphia to stand a chance. It just had to be. With extremely depleted weaponry for Carson Wentz, as well as an almost completed injured Offensive Line, the defense needed to have their best game of the year, which they quite possibly did. Other than defending George Kittle, the defense did force a Pick-6, and stopped a crucial 2 point conversion for San Francisco in this game. The 49ers were ineffective running the ball, and George Kittle single-handedly kept them in this game.
Carson Wentz
I won’t say Carson Wentz is ‘back’ but this was most definitely a step in the right direction. Although he threw an early interception and only had 193 passing yards, he did take advantage of San Francisco with his mobility, which Doug Pederson actually utilized for once. Wentz made the biggest plays when he needed to, one of which was the big 4th down conversion to Greg Ward Jr, while the other was the 42 yard DIME to Travis Fulgham (who? Oh yeah Practice Squad) to practically seal the deal. Wentz is going to have to play turnover-free football this upcoming week, though. This offense will have to deal with one of the stingiest defense in the entire league, the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Injuries
Lane Johnson left after 1 offensive possession, and Darius Slay had an ugly injury that thankfully was nothing serious. The Eagles still don’t have Alshon Jeffery or Dallas Goedert back, and DeSean Jackson also missed this one. Avonte Maddox was also out, so it’s going to be crucial for Philly to get as healthy as possible entering a tough couple of games approaching.
Summary
Great win, it’s always nice to get that first one! Hopefully the confidence and momentum of this week will give Philadelphia a fighter’s chance against Pittsburgh. Zach Ertz only had 4 catches for 9 yards last week, and Myles Sanders did struggle. They both will need huge games for Philly, and the defense will have to step up once again. Hopefully some key players will come back healthy for this one.
Photo: Philadelphia Inquirer
