Philadelphia returns home on a high note after a much-needed win in Minnesota. The Eagles displayed how explosive their offense can be during the second half. Coupled with the defensive play, this was one of their most complete games of the season.
Jalen Hurts delivered the first perfect passer rating game of the NFL season, the dynamic duo of AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith had over 300 yards receiving, and the defense only allowed five field goals on six red zone trips. In the NFL’s week-to-week league, success can be only temporary, and the Eagles' divisional matchup against a New York Giants team that beat them a little over two weeks ago is another challenge and opportunity to prove their growth.
When: Sun, Oct. 27, 1 p.m. EST
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
How: FOX
Jalen Hurts enters Sunday’s matchup coming off his best game since the Super Bowl in February. He completed all five of his deep passes, good for 215 yards and three touchdowns, which is a far cry from the 29.1 QBR game he had against NY at MetLife.
The offense is flying high, but still needs to put four quarters of good football together. The offensive line will be down a starter again, this time Cam Jurgens, and will need to find a way to be more effective. They were unable to establish the line or open lanes for Saquon Barkley in the last matchup, or for much of the season. He will want to fare better against his former team and finally have the breakout statement game he has been looking for. He has not rushed for 100 yards all season.
Dallas Goedert had a quiet game up North with 18 yards on three receptions, but his consistency remains vital. His nine catches for 110 yards and a touchdown versus the Giants during their last matchup led the team. When the offense is hitting on all cylinders, he is contributing as well as the wideouts.
Fangio’s unit has found rhythm. The Eagles’ defense smothered Minnesota’s timing attack, applying pressure and forcing Carson Wentz into hurried reads and bad decisions. The result was two turnovers, including a pick-six. The sacks have not piled up, but the pressure is causing havoc.
Quinyon Mitchell continues to show the league that he is one of its best corners. His growth in season two is undeniable. He shut down Justin Jefferson last week, only allowing one reception for ten yards in 20 coverage snaps, and will look to do the same with whoever he is asked to cover against the Giants.
Jaxson Dart and his mobility were a problem for the Eagles two weeks ago, and they will need to stay disciplined. His ability to extend plays and stress the defense has been a key to his success. The Birds will need to get him on the ground when they get their hands on him, or it could be another long day.
The Eagles' Brandon Graham has come out of retirement, but he indicated that he will not likely be activated until the game against Green Bay, after the Eagles bye week.
The Eagles looked like themselves again, atleast for a half. If the offensive line can sustain any semblance of its 2024 self, it will set momentum for Barkley to feast and Hurts to get into rhythm. This is a game that Philadelphia should control. Expect the home crowd to feed off the energy and push this team into November with confidence.
Prediction Eagles 31, the Giants 20
Player of the Game: Saquon Barkley. His breakout week is coming, and now is a good time to have it.
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