Zone Read: Eagles-Giants, the Day After
THE NUMBER THAT MATTERS: 72
That’s the number of x-plays (20 yards or more) the Eagles’ defense gave up through the air. That’s the most of any team in the league and also more than any defense gave up in 2013.
What’s specifically jarring about that number as it pertains to this defense is that the pass-rush was actually really good. Most of the time, big plays are a combination of a bad pass rush and bad coverage. The Eagles actually got the first part right.
Rebuilding the secondary has to be high on the list of offseason priorities. Most notably, replacing Bradley Fletcher and Nate Allen. I would try to upgrade from Cary Williams as well, but all those moves might not be possible in a single offseason.
Malcolm Jenkins is solid at one safety spot. Brandon Boykin will be the nickel. And in all likelihood, Nolan Carroll II will be the dime.
The Eagles can hope to groom Jaylen Watkins, but expect them to use free agency to fill one or two spots. We’ll get to some names soon enough.
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THE BEST OF 140
Which finger???? RT @JamieApody: Chip Kelly pointing a finger skyward to the #Eagles fans as he runs off the field #6abcEagles
— Les Bowen (@LesBowen) December 28, 2014
C’mon, that’s funny. This too:
BTW, has anyone seen an announcement on the start times for the first weekend of the Culture Playoffs yet? — BountyBowl (@bountybowl) December 29, 2014
Bounty had a good showing in the finale:
Eagles fans and Giants fans may not see eye to eye on a lot, but they both can agree on the virtues of wearing sweatpants to the stadium.
— BountyBowl (@bountybowl) December 28, 2014
There’s the effort and professionalism you expect from a player like DRC. — Brad Rutter (@bradrutter) December 28, 2014
I said it during the game: Not sure I’ve ever seen a cornerback give less effort to get off a block than DRC showed on the first touchdown to Jordan Matthews. And yes, I remember watching him in an Eagles uniform.
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