Eagles Analysis: Five matchups to watch vs. Falcons

Oct 26, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles tackle Jason Peters (71) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Eagles 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Jason Peters vs. Vic Beasley Jr.

The rookie Vic Beasley Jr. couldn’t have gotten a tougher draw in his first NFL game than Jason Peters. Peters, one of the premier left tackles in the NFL is the anchor of the Eagles offensive line and will make life tonight for Beasley. The Falcons took Beasley 8th overall in the 2015 NFL draft in hopes of adding a young pass rushing option to a unit that ranked 31st in sacks last season.

Beasley is a gifted young pass rusher who can covert speed to power, a trait critical for any pass rusher. He was impressive this preseason and showed a variety of effective pass rushing moves including a Dwight Freeney-esque spin move. However due to experience and skill level overall expect plenty of “welcome to the NFL” moments Monday night. Peters is far to dominate a player, especially at this point of his career, to have an off game to a rookie. Chip Kelly has mentioned various times this preseason that Peters is in rather good shape and is extra motivated in my opinion considering he’s coming off a “so-so” season in the opinion of some. Look for Peters to assert himself in this matchup.

Advantage: Jason Peters

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