Philadelphia Eagles: Who are the unsung heroes of the playoffs?

Chris Long, DE

Let’s stay on topic for a second. On the opposite side of Curry and Barnett, Brandon Graham leads the edge. While Graham is having the best season of his career, his veteran backup, Chris Long isn’t doing so bad himself. In fact, Long is quietly having one of his better seasons in his 10th season in the NFL.

Now, we aren’t getting the Chris Long of the St. Louis Rams, which is okay. But to say that Long hasn’t been a major contributor to this defensive front would simply be false. Not only does he bring veteran leadership and post-season experience, but he brings a disruptive vibe for the backfields of opponents.

Here’s another guy that doesn’t quite kill it in sack numbers, but gets just enough pressure on a passer to force a bad throw. Before, we discussed Barnett’s one play that made him a key contributor. Now we have to discuss Long’s contributing play that changed the momentum of the NFC Championship game.

Remember Patrick Robinson’s wonderful pick-six that put the Eagles on the scoreboard last week? Well, that play has been highlighted as a great play for multiple reasons. One being Robinson’s ability to change directions and take it to the end zone. Two, being Ronald Darby’s key block that sent Robinson home for six.

Now three was the perhaps the biggest factor of all. Long’s pressure and hit on Keenum’s arm, which forced the bad throw and decision. Had Long not have gotten that pressure on the quarterback, there is no telling what would’ve happened. We know one thing, though, we are sure glad it did.