Approval ratings skyrocket for Philly's Dawgs after Eagles manhandle the Giants

Something tells us some of what follows here will be relatable to some of you. Somewhere along your day's journey, maybe while hanging out with some friends or chatting with coworkers at the water cooler, you've discussed the Philadelphia Eagles. That probably led to discussions about all of those Georgia Bulldogs they have drafted.

Selecting five of the best players from two National Championship-winning teams seemed like a good business strategy at the time. Since then, however, we've heard more criticism than praise.

Work ethics have been questioned. Words like 'busts' have been tossed around, and dare we say it, Howie Roseman had even been placed under the microscope.

But, as Lee Corso would say, 'Not so fast friends'...

Those young Eagles from UGA seem to be turning the corner.

You wouldn't have any difficulty finding co-signers if you wanted to criticize Philly's Dawgs early this season. Stop us if any of this sounds familiar.

'Nakobe Dean can't tackle or cover... Jordan Davis isn't as dominant as he should be for a man his size...

Nolan Smith is a bust... Kelee Ringo isn't starting material... Jalen Carter has no work ethic and disappeared during the back half of his rookie season...

Philly drafted a bunch of B-plus players who only shined because they were all on the same roster...

Again... Not so fast!

Following Week 6's win over the Cleveland Browns, three of Pro Football Focus's highest-graded Eagles defenders were from Georgia: Jordan Davis (83.6), Jalen Carter (81.5), and Nolan Smith (77.8). Ringo and Dean earned overall grades of 62.4 and 43 respectively if you're interested.

In Week 7, the Dawgs were again well represented. Nolan Smith, Jalen Carter, and Nakobe Dean combined for 17 tackles, ten pressures, five sacks, six TFLs, three hurries, and seven additional hits on the quarterback.

Dean missed an early tackle and was targeted three times. He gave up three receptions. Jordan Davis only played 12 snaps and didn't crack the stat sheet. Ringo played nine defensive snaps, seven in coverage, and earned overall and coverage grades of 65.2 and 65.1 respectively.

All that has been said to say there is room to improve for everyone. We'd all love to see more consistency. Still, it was a good day for the young guys overall.

We often discuss the need for QBs to be given their reps. Why can't we be more patient with these young defenders? They have a learning curve too, and that must be taken into account.

Next up for the Eagles is a road date with the Cincinnati Bengals. We'll see what happens. Personally, we're expecting them to continue this upswing. That's our opinion. You're allowed to form your own.

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