Sometimes, we wonder why the same level of vitriol isn't heard when discussing NFL quarterbacks who aren't Jalen Hurts. No, this needs to be said. The Philadelphia Eagles star still has room to improve, but he's criticized more harshly than guys we are told have more talent.
When is Justin Herbert going to win? Why is Trevor Lawrence so heralded? Why aren't people picking apart every incompletion they throw?
Philly's signal-caller is scheduled for a QB duel with the latter this Sunday in Week 9 at 4:05 pm EST. We'll say what no one else wants to. Trevor Lawrence isn't great. He's okay. That's the ceiling. He's been okay this season, not great.
We expect an Eagles win, and we'll be hugely disappointed if that doesn't occur. Philly has lacked consistency on both sides of the ball this season, but they've made some strides lately. Here's where they prove we should continue taking them seriously.
Here are five Jaguars not named Trevor Lawrence who the Eagles had better keep tabs on.
Now, that we have placed a spotlight on Trevor Lawrence, we must be fair about something. He and the offense are walking into this one shorthanded.
Think Jalen Hurts in Tampa. That's what this looks like. His top two tailbacks are hurt. His wide receivers corps is in shambles.
Devin Duvernay and David White Jr. are on the injured reserve. Brian Thomas Jr., Christian Kirk, and Gabe Davis are his three leading receivers. All are dealing with some sort of injury.
Do they play seven-on-seven in NFL games? The Jags may request that courtesy. We're kidding... sort of.
Kirk (collarbone) sat out of the Jags' Wednesday and Thursday afternoon practice sessions. Tank Bigsby (ankle), Travis Etienne (hamstring), Davis (shoulder), and Thomas (chest) were all limited on both days. From what we understand, however, Jacksonville won't be forfeiting the game.
So, Vic Fangio will go to work this week, and he'll piece a game plan together. Here are a handful of guys we're sure he'll be discussing.
Parker Washington, wide receiver
We've found a wide receiver who isn't hurt. Meet Parker Washington. He stands at five-foot-ten. He tips the scales at 212 pounds. He figures to be Christian Kirk's replacement for the reminder of the season and was the author of a 96-yard kickoff return versus the New England Patriots in Week 7.
Tank Bigsby, running back
Okay, again, Bigsby is dealing with an ankle injury and was limited on Wednesday and Thursday, but again, there's no one to discuss unless you want to hear about D'Ernest Johnson.
That's what we thought. We didn't think so.
It's too early to determine whether or not Bigsby will play on Sunday, but if he does, keep an eye on him. He seems to be coming on. He's tallied 493 yards rushing and four rushing TDs this season.
Brian Thomas Jr., wide receiver
As is the case with Bigsby, we mention Thomas assuming he'll play. There's no word that he will or won't yet, but the rookie has hauled in 33 receptions for 573 yards and has already found the end zone five times.
Evan Engram, tight end
With so many injuries, the Jags may turn to Evan Engram. He's one of a few healthy offensive weapons. The Eagles know him well. He spent five seasons with the New York Giants and has hauled in 29 receptions for 263 yards in seven career games vs. Philly.
Walker Little, left tackle
You've probably heard by now that the Jags traded Cam Robinson to the Minnesota Vikings. That means Walker Little is assigned to protect Trevor Lawrence's blind side.
That also means he could see significant time matched up vs. Josh Sweat who has seemingly crept out of a slump that began last season.
We predict a sack for 'Sweaty'.