Gridiron Showdown: What to Expect from Eagles vs. Rams
The Eagles travel to the West Coast in a highly anticipated matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. For Philadelphia, a win would mark their seventh consecutive, as they are trailing the Lions for the first seed in the NFC. With the Rams being 5-5, they are also playing for playoff positioning. They are looking to close in on the NFC West as they still have a chance to win their division. Both teams have a lot at stake in their respective circumstances. With that being said, what can the Eagles execute to ensure another victory on the road?
With the Eagles going into this game without DeVonta Smith, A.J. Brown is sure to be the feature target on prime-time. Last season against the Rams, Brown went nuclear in Los Angeles, hauling in 127 yards on eight receptions. With the Rams having a weaker secondary ranking 22nd in passing defense, the Eagles should be sure to exploit opportunities when they present themselves. Saquon Barkley continues to have a career year, ranking second in the NFL in rushing. His prowess in the run game will determine how much the rest of the offense can open up for Jalen Hurts on Sunday night. Dallas Goedert is also sure to get a handful of targets, as he has quietly had a nice season thus far. In a pivotal matchup, the Eagles will absolutely need to put points on the board early and consistently through all four quarters.
The defense will have a nice test against a Rams offense with talent scattered throughout. Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua are among the most respected receivers in the NFL and can give the Eagles secondary a battle throughout. Since Week Five, the Eagles have been ranked the number one defense in the NFL across multiple outlets and analytical departments. Their pass rush has continuously progressed, and they have a seemingly superstar cornerback in Quinyon Mitchell. He is the only cornerback in the NFL so far to not allow a touchdown in over 375 coverage snaps. It will be worth focusing on whether he can keep star receiver Cooper Kupp relatively quiet in a game where the Rams need him mightily. For Philadelphia, leaving SoCal with their seventh consecutive victory will build greater momentum for their late-season push in the NFC.
