Eagles versus Raiders: 3 Reasonable expectations for Week 7

The Eagles’ defensive line will return to form with a dominating showing.

This is the game, Philly fans. This is the game that this defensive front needs to dominate collectively. Defensive end Josh Sweat and the Eagles’ best pass rusher, Javon Hargrave, have had solid games, but the rest of the defensive line seems to have shrunk.

They need to be ready to play in Week 7. The Raiders’ offense ranks among the league’s bottom half at 21, but their ability to pass block is a significant weakness. Las Vegas’ O-line has had a lot of struggles so far this season, and they’re currently ranked 22nd in pass protection.

Quarterback Derrick Carr has been sacked a total of 17 times so far, and the Raiders haven’t even faced a team with a formidable pass rush yet.

The Eagles’ cornerbacks should play more man coverage to allow the defensive line to get home. The Raiders will employ a quick passing game and use the running game to keep the Birds on their heels, but Philadelphia’s defense should be able to generate loads of pressure to throw Carr off and force him into making a mistake.

It’s a sizeable test for this defense, one that had an okay game versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon has to ensure his entire unit is good to go coming off this mini bye week.