The Philadelphia Eagles are soaring high this season, boasting an impressive 11-2 record that reflects their dominance on both sides of the ball. This formidable performance is underscored by a staggering point differential; over the past nine weeks, the Eagles have outscored their opponents by 118 points.
Offensive Dominance
The Eagles' prowess on the ground has been particularly noteworthy. With an average of 206.8 rushing yards per game during their nine-game winning streak, Philadelphia leads the league, showcasing exceptional strength in their rushing attack. This attack is further evidenced by the team's average of 2.32 yards gained before contact, solidifying their standing as third in the NFL with 5.3 yards per carry. Despite the previous season’s faltering end, where they started strong with a 10-1 record only to lose six of the last seven games including a wild card defeat, this year's performance on the ground appears to be a course correction aiming for sustained success.
In stark contrast to Philadelphia’s rushing supremacy, A.J. Brown's cryptic comment of just "Passing" leaves much to the interpretation regarding the Eagles' air game. Meanwhile, friction seemed to have arisen in the locker room, as evidenced by Brandon Graham's remark, "Hurts and Brown were friends, but things have changed." However, Graham showed maturity by later backtracking, pledging to apologize to Hurts and Brown, acknowledging his misstep in the public eye.
Defensive Strength
On the defensive front, the Eagles have been nothing short of stellar. They rank first in total yards allowed per game with just 248.0, and yards per play at 4.2 during their current streak. The defense has clamped down on opposing passers, allowing only 152.4 passing yards per game with a net of 4.8 yards per attempt. With an NFL-best average of just 15.3 points allowed per game, Philadelphia’s defense has constructed a nearly impenetrable wall, frustrating offenses league-wide.
The offseason brought some changes; veteran pillars like Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox departed, signaling a new chapter for the defense. However, the return of C.J. Gardner-Johnson has been a welcomed reinforcement, bolstering an already potent defensive lineup.
A Glance Beyond the Eagles
While the Eagles soar, other players in the league like Saquon Barkley have also turned heads with standout performances. Barkley’s 1,623 rushing yards with an impressive average of 6.1 yards per carry highlight his historical season, adding layers to the competitive landscape in the NFL.
As the season progresses, the Philadelphia Eagles continue to display a blend of offensive might and defensive strength, striving to maintain their winning trajectory. With some locker room dynamics requiring attention, the overarching narrative for the Eagles is one of potential redemption and continued success. Their blistering form suggests they are well-positioned to extend their winning ways, a notion that resonates with their determined fanbase and challenges their NFL rivals.