Eagles vs. Falcons Game Predictions: ITI Staff Edition
Aug 22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Byron Maxwell (31) intercepts the pass attempt of Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (not pictured) during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
The Philadelphia Eagles matchup well the the Atlanta Falcons on both sides of the ball. So much so that I don’t think this game will be very close at all. Offensively the Eagles should be able to do whatever they want. The offensive line should get a good push up front against a Falcons front 7 that ranked 21st against the run last season. Desmond Trufant is a good cover corner but other than him the Falcons secondary isn’t very good so the Eagles should be able to push the ball down the field in the passing game. Expect big plays to come off play action once the offense gets rolling.
Defensively the Eagles could have problems with Julio Jones. He’s the type of game breaking receiver that Byron Maxwell was brought in to lock down. Maxwell said he expects to play on one side exclusively Monday night but don’t be surprised if he shadows Jones if our other corners struggle against him. The front 7 should dominate early and often against a Falcons offensive line that’s done some shuffling since adding Andy Levitre last week. Getting pressure on Matt Ryan is critical in stopping their passing attack and I think the Eagles will do so.
The Eagles also have the advantage on special teams despite Cody Parkey‘s rocky preseason. All signs point to Devin Hester not playing so that’s one less weapon the birds will have to worry about. Expect the Eagles to continue where they left off last season with strong special teams play. Winning the field position battle will go a long way towards an eventual Eagles win.
Final Score Prediction: Eagles 34, Falcons 17
Game MVP: Byron Maxwell: 5 tackles, 2 passes defended, 1 interception and holds Julio Jones under 100 receiving yards and ZERO touchdowns.
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