The Philadelphia Eagles are set to take on the newly branded Washington Commanders this Sunday. Granted, the branding isn’t the focal point, but rather, ex Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz. The Eagles have proven with their wins over the Lions and Vikings that they have the offensive firepower to take on their NFC East counterparts. The Commanders are coming off of a loss to the Lions but not before having an offensive explosion in the second half. They also outplayed their season opener against Jacksonville and sit with a record of 1-1. With the Giants playing the Cowboys, control of the NFC East is up for grabs. The Eagles will have to continue firing on all cylinders to come out with the win.
Hurts and the return of Carson Wentz
Hurts has 576 yards so far in the air this season with just 1 TD. His alter-ego RB prowess has proven effective so far due to his 147 yards and 3 TDs. Carson Wentz looks to win-out over his former team and protégé. Wentz has 650 yards and 7 TDs in just 2 of his contests and he has plenty of weapons in his arsenal that can be utilized. Don’t let Hurts numbers fool you though, the Eagles offense is red hot. While Carson is shown to still have an arm at times, Hurts has the legs and squad to attack from the ground and the air. Wentz will also have to contend against a hot Eagles defense and “Big Play Slay” as he has thrown 3 picks so far this year.
Offense
Nearly all of Washington’s receivers had some equal targets thrown their way, in reference to their previous game against the Lions. Curtis Samuel, Jahan Dotson, Terry McLaurin, and even running back Antonio Gibson are for sure looks for Carson. Washington falls to 24th in the league when it comes to the rush. There isn’t all that much to worry about on the ground. That being said, expect Carson’s arm to be worked throughout the game. Meanwhile the Eagles sit at #2 (just behind the Browns that played TNF) on the ground. Although they rank 7th in passing, it’s consistent and just as deadly.
Defense
Washington sits at number 20 against the pass while they rank at a very low 28th on the rush. The Eagles “run first” heavy offense should shatter right through the Commanders. Philly’s defense sits at number 12 against the pass. It’s been shown that once the defense is rolling, there isn’t much stopping them. Cousins became fatigued and made mistakes in his throws which heavily cost the Vikings. Undoubtably, Wentz could end up in the same predicament. The Eagles cannot have another defensive performance as they did in Detroit and expect a W. I personally don’t expect anything less than what was brought to the Vikings. Matt Johnson of sportsnaut ranked the Eagles at #1 for defense specifically against the Commanders in week 3.
Final Thoughts
The Eagles can’t sleep on Washington this Sunday. Carson Wentz has proven that he still has an arm and he has the receivers to make things happen. The Eagles are still slated to pull out a win, as long as, they continue their pressure and momentum they gave last Monday night. The Eagles should dominate offensively against a struggling Commanders defense while Philly’s defense puts the pressure on Wentz and take out their one trick pony. A win here could set the stage and the theme for the NFC East this season. Catch the game on Sunday in Washington starting at 10am PST/1pm EST. Fly Eagles Fly!
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