Philadelphia Eagles: 3 Keys to victory versus San Francisco 49ers
By Hunter Doyle
2. The Philadelphia Eagles need to limit the 49ers pass rush
Last year, Jordan Mailata made his first career start in San Francisco. Nick Bosa was not on the field for that matchup, but he will be this Sunday.
Bosa’s athleticism could give Mailata some problems oversetting to the outside but Mailata isn’t lacking athleticism himself. Unlike last year, the entire Eagles’ offensive line is healthy this time around. We’ll finally get to see these two lines at full strength. After a bit of a rocky start in Week 1, Lane Johnson will have to deal with Arik Armstead and Dee Ford but the expectation is that he’ll bounce back.
If Javon Kinlaw plays, he’ll pair with D.J. Jones on the interior but the Birds have Isaac Seumalo, Jason Kelce, and Brandon Brooks to slow both of them down. The entire defensive front presents a challenge but the Birds offensive line is definitely up to the task.
Whichever side gains the early edge in this matchup could come out on top. Jalen Hurts’ mobility presents an extra challenge for the Niners. Last week, he broke free from several near sacks and turned them into first downs. He should be able to bail out the Birds offensive line at times.