PHILADELPHIA - If the regular season ended today, the Philadelphia Eagles would be in the playoffs. Riding three straight wins against one of the league’s easiest schedules, the Birds have looked as good as they have all season under first-year head coach Nick Sirianni.
Last week, they took down a lifeless New York Giants team. After an ugly 3-3 first half, the Eagles offense got into a rhythm, with Jalen Hurts throwing two touchdowns, including one to offensive lineman Lane Johnson. A concerning start turned into a laugher as Philly moved to 8-7 on the season.
Sunday’s matchup against the Washington Football Team is another game that looks simple on paper. Washington is coming off an embarrassing 56-14 loss versus Dallas in a game where both their offense and defense looked overwhelmed.
Whether the Eagles see starting quarterback Taylor Heinicke or his backup, Kyle Allen, expect Philly to pressure them early and often with a pass rush that tormented the Giants last weekend. The defense has quietly had a very productive season, ranking in the top ten against the run and the pass. It’s hard to imagine Washington’s injury-riddled offense posing much of a threat.
Offensively, the Eagles need to control the ball and the clock. Turning the ball over is a sure-fire way to keep Washington in the game and something the Birds have to try and prevent. Running the ball against a defense lacking two of its best playmakers in Chase Young and Montez Sweat is the way to go.
If other results around the league go Philly’s way, they could clinch a playoff berth in Week 17. Along with a win against Washington, if the Vikings fall to the Packers and the Saints lose to the Panthers, then the Eagles will secure a playoff spot. Alternatively, if the Eagles win, the 49ers defeat the Texans, and the Vikings lose, then the Eagles still secure a spot.
Before any of these scenarios can come true, the Eagles have to take care of business against Washington. I think they’ll pull through handedly.
Final score: Eagles, 31. Washington, 17.
Sam Woloson - Sports Writer: Twitter: @WolosonSam | Instagram: @Sam_Woloson
