The Eagles improved to 10-1 on the season with another thrilling victory. They are currently struggling through the NFL’s most difficult schedule and coming out on top. The best aspect is that they are team victories with major plays in all three phases.
Jalen Carter: A
Jalen Carter had his greatest game in a couple weeks, and it couldn’t have happened at a better time. Carter was used as a three-down defender and even took snaps on the edge. While the pass rush proved problematic for the whole defensive line, with Josh Allen’s evasiveness making him difficult to pressure, Carter played outstanding run defense throughout the game. Jalen Carter also stopped a crucial field goal, which proved decisive in this game. He brilliantly timed a jump and got his hand up to deny the Bills three points. What an outstanding performance by the rookie defense.
As a rotating defensive back, Sydney Brown put in another strong performance. He didn’t make any major plays, but he also didn’t make any major errors. Brown made two outstanding tackles in punt coverage.
Like Brown, I thought Eli Ricks played well as a slot defender inside. He had less playing time than usual, owing primarily to the return of Bradley Roby, but he avoided giving up major plays.
Nolan Smith continues to play a minor role in these games. If Zach Cunningham’s injury is serious, one wonders if the defense would benefit from him playing more off-ball.
Keele Ringo is still a regular on the special teams.
Due to the injury to Lane Johnson, the Eagles substituted Jack Driscoll at right tackle in place of Tyler Steen. Given Steen’s lack of playing time at right tackle as a pro, it makes sense.
