3 Keys to a Philadelphia Eagles win versus New Orleans in Week 14
By Hunter Doyle
2. The linebackers on the Philadelphia Eagles need to execute.
This has been an issue all season long. There have been some big games here and there from T.J. Edwards and Alex Singleton but they’ve struggled at times as well. This isn’t a surprise since general manager and vice president Howie Roseman didn’t invest in the position. Last week, Singleton was the culprit of a busted coverage on Robert Tonyan’s touchdown as Benjamin Solak pointed out in his breakdown. While Singleton and the other linebackers have improved in the run game, pass coverage remains a major issue.
This week, the Eagles are short on linebackers. Edwards is out with a hamstring injury and Davion Taylor is on injured reserve with a knee injury. Taylor plays mostly on special teams but this week could’ve been an opportunity for him. Singleton and Duke Riley will likely take two of the starting spots. When they are Eagles are in their base defense, the last spot will probably go to Shaun Bradley. It’ll be good for him to get more experience.
The only other linebacker Philly has is Joe Bachie who was signed from the Saints practice squad this week. Maybe he has some intel on the Saints offense and gets snaps because of his familiarity with it. Even beyond this game, Bachie can be a nice addition. There’s also a chance Rashad Smith gets promoted from the practice squad.
The point being, this is a young and inexperienced group. Saints tight end Jared Cook hasn’t set the world on fire in recent weeks but this could be a breakout game for him. Philly has allowed 63 catches for 622 yards and seven touchdowns to opposing tight ends. The linebackers won’t be responsible for him every snap but likely for a majority of them. The Saints also have Adam Trautman who can make a few catches here and there.
Keeping an eye on Cook and Trautman in the red zone must be a priority. Not to mention, this linebacker core will be responsible for limiting Alvin Kamara and Latavius Murray. They also need to stay disciplined with quarterback Taysom Hill’s speed. Hopefully, this doesn’t turn into another 48-7 blowout.