The Philadelphia Eagles are now facing an opponent that features none other than the light in the crevices, running back Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints. The Philadelphia Eagles have only managed the average run defense ranking at number 25 in the league following extended periods of being unable to stop the opponents’ run. Kamara has been just a spark plug, though, because he has also led the league in first downs and total yards from scrimmage. Let’s break down what this matchup means for the Eagles and how they can turn things around.
Current State of the Eagles’ Defense
The Eagles faced some tough foes thus far on defense. They had to surrender some big plays on runs by Josh Jacobs of the Packers and Bijan Robinson of the Falcons. The Eagles average 157.5 rushing yards per game and need the run defense to tighten up so Kamara doesn’t succeed. Defensive tackle Thomas Booker calls Kamara “a dynamic back” who knows how to set up blocks while running.
Alvin Kamara is not just any running back. He’s a do-it-all back, and as of now, he ranks sixth in the league with 198 rushing yards and has averaged an impressive 5.7 yards per carry. He leads the league in first downs. Eagles cornerback Darius Slay recognizes what he’s got: balance and a tremendous ability to break tackles, and it makes him a tough deal for the Eagles to deal with.
Panthers and Cowboys Draw Lessons
The Panthers and the Cowboys tasted similar defeats by Kamara. If they had contained him, surely things might have been different. Eagles have learned how matters of not controlling the best running back of a team turn out. The only way to avoid that is for them to prepare themselves thoroughly and put everything into action.
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has often stated that the first goal of a great pass rush is to stop the run. If the Eagles can force the Saints to become predictably one-dimensional, then that opens the door for the Eagles to pressure the quarterback. Fangio also understands that if they let the Saints succeed in running, that opens up play-action passes, which is much more difficult to defend.
Key Players to Watch
The focus will be two on the first-round draft picks Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter, as they have to make some plays impactful. Of course, while Davis has indeed kept very silent so far this season, he certainly needs to do so much more. Fangio would expect to see both players improve on their part to harden up the run defense.
Teamwork and communication will be essential when the Eagles face this tough game. The player should ensure they are at the right place without allowing Kamara to make something big. Good communications can halt big plays while at the same time aiding in keeping the defense merged. Each player will have to do their part in executing the game plan effectively.
In conclusion, the game against the Saints would therefore be a very testing one for the Eagles. The challenge is not only stopping Alvin Kamara but also making sure that the Eagles hold their ground on this one, especially in the run defense that has been quite shaky throughout. If they can contain Kamara and make the Saints settle for passing plays, they will get a winning result. Fans have been sitting at their seats all this while, waiting to see how the Eagles respond under pressure.
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