Philadelphia Eagles: Five Observations vs. Cardinals

Oct 26, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy (25) spins out of a tackle by Arizona Cardinals cornerback

(31) during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

LeSean McCoy has lost a step from last year

Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro running back LeSean McCoy broke records last season. He won the NFL Rushing Title with 1,607 yards on the ground. He had a few games that were sub-hundred gainers but he still managed to juke around to get an extra yard or twelve. He even had the nickname, Shady McCoy because of his ability to make people miss tackles and look foolish. But not this year.

In the first seven games of the season he’s only managed 505 yard on the ground. In only one game, the Week 6 contest against the New York Giants did he rush over 100. Last season in his first seven games he had already rushed for 695 yards with three games north of 100 yards.

At first it appeared to be an issue with the banged up offensive line. By week two, three starters were out and the backups were doing their best. But they couldn’t seem to create holes for him to run through. But week five we saw the return of Eagles tackle Lane Johnson and he put up respectable numbers but nothing that said Shady was back.

In the game against the Arizona Cardinals he had open field in front of him and more often than not he was taken down. Last season he only needed a couple of steps to make anyone miss. It’s almost as if he’s trying too hard to make them miss. In a strange way, he and Foles seem connected. They both are off their game this season.

Maybe Kelly can lead them back.

Before it’s too late.