Philadelphia Eagles versus Atlanta: 5 Under-the-radar Falcons to watch

This game is significant for the Philadelphia Eagles’ interior defensive line.

Former Temple Owl Matt Hennessy will get the nod at center in his sophomore year. While he appeared in 13 games his rookie year with Atlanta, he only started two.

Matt Ryan will have to adjust and make sure they are on the same page in terms of communication at the line. For a young center, it can take some time to adjust in that regard. Ryan should be able to help him in that regard with the experience he has but it still won’t be an easy task for the 23-year-old center.

Hennessy will also have rookie Jalen Mayfield starting alongside him at left guard making his role even more significant. Mayfield has the potential to be a more than capable starter for years to come but it’s safe to say the Falcons didn’t envision starting him this early.

Hennessy will have to play like a veteran in that sense and help Mayfield along the way as he gets adjusted. Many Eagles mock drafts had the Birds taking Hennessy in 2020 despite his Giants fandom growing up.

Now, fans will see what he is made of against a stout interior line with Fletcher Cox, Javon Hargrave, and Milton Williams. Don’t be surprised if the Eagles shift their ends to the inside at times especially with the NASCAR front. How he plays could have a massive impact on the outcome of this game.