3 Philadelphia Eagles wrinkles that can cure those Carson Wentz concerns
By Hunter Doyle
Here are a few more ideas for that Philadelphia Eagles rushing attack.
On trap, power, and wham concepts, the Eagles got just seven yards but only ran the ball four times. On one of those runs, the ‘Birds’ expected Isaac Seumalo get outside and block safety Landon Collins, but Collins had other plans, side-stepping Seumalo and getting in the backfield for a five-yard loss.
The Eagles only ran three more trap, power, or wham concepts for the entire game. Those plays resulted in 12 yards from scrimmage (four yards per rush).
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Philly also ran two pitches during the game. Jason Peters‘ can’t get out to the edge as quickly as he used to at his age, Nate Herbig doesn’t possess the athleticism for that either, and at this point of his young career, Jack Driscoll is better known for his pass blocking ability than his skill as a run-blocker. Running pitch plays is going to be difficult when three of your five offensive linemen can’t get to the edge. We saw some of the negative effects of that in Week 1 as Washington’s front seven is one of the most athletic in the league. Two pitch plays by the Eagles went for a total of four rushing yards.
Unfortunately, Pederson continued to run concepts that didn’t work, and when he saw that there was an issue, he never switched things up. Philly could have benefited from a few jet sweeps or reverses to Jalen Reagor to keep the front seven on their toes. Anything would have worked. What’s the point of having both Rich Scangarello and Marty Mornhinweg as advisors if this offense is going to be as bland as it ever was.
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Maybe COVID-19 kept them from implementing those types of wrinkles into the offense during the Summer. Who knows, but the RPOs (run-pass options) were also limited. Had they been used, Philly could have kept the Washington defensive lineman at bay and kept them from being able to stay aggressive. Doug didn’t step up here, but hopefully, he can recognize these things and do so in Week 2. His quarterback’s safety may depend on it.