The first preseason game is in the books for the Philadelphia Eagles, but it was one interesting situation before the contest that might have some people talking.
A safety position battle between Marcus Epps and Michael Carter II has been the most competitive, so the logical conclusion is that Epps and Carter would split reps on the field. That did not happen against the Baltimore Ravens, as Epps was a healthy scratch and Carter started the game with Andre' Sam.
That decision alone brought on way more questions than Eagles fans had, as it felt like Epps was given the starting safety job. It shouldn't be interpreted as that, though.
What to make of Marcus Epps resting and Michael Carter II starting in Eagles preseason game
The Athletic's Zach Berman took a look at the safety position battle after the Eagles took a 24-7 loss to the Ravens. Berman shared his thoughts on whether to rest Epps and play Carter.
"Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio tipped his hand in the position battle at safety by sitting Marcus Epps. Epps, an eight-year starter, has consistently played with the first-team defense in training camp. Michael Carter II has also split time with Epps opposite Drew Mukuba, but Carter started against the Ravens alongside Andre’ Sam.
After the game, Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni backed that claim from Berman during his press conference. When asked whether Epps not playing signaled something, Sirianni said the media shouldn't read too much into it.
"No, I don't think so," Sirianni said. "Again, I think we're getting really good play from Marcus in practice and, you know, and Michael Carter as well. I think Andre' Sam had a really good night tonight, and I saw him coming up and making a lot of plays and being in good positions. Again, have to look at the tape to give you guys a better assessment of that. But Marcus is a little bit older, and Michael, you know, didn't play as much last year, but both are going to be very important to this football team. And I'm pleased with— I thought Michael did some really nice things tonight. I think Mike's a really good football player and I'm excited to have him on this roster. So we'll see where that goes."
Head Coach Nick Sirianni and Eagles players speak with the media. #FlyEaglesFly https://t.co/BgxdsfQp1R
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Carter only played in a few series until J.T. Gray took over for him. During that time, Carter finished with just one tackle, but showed a willingness to be physical, and his one tackle saw him drive right into the heart of the offensive line and stand up the Ravens running back there.
Throughout the first three weeks of training camp, Carter and Epps have both been praised for their performances. That has made the choice of who should win the job that much more difficult.
Read more: Eagles' updated 53-man roster projection after preseason opening loss
It does feel as though right now Epps probably has the advantage after playing well late in the season last year when Andrew Mukuba got hurt. Carter is going to have to do more if he wants to beat out Epps for that starting job in the next two weeks.
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