DeVonta Smith, seven other Eagles deserving game balls following Philly's victory versus Vikings

They have endured criticism, but Sean Desai has a lot of talent on his defense.

This offseason, the Eagles were forced to replace their top two safeties and their top two linebackers. They also lost their best young interior defensive lineman and their defensive coordinator. Forget all of the criticism. Let that sink in for a second.

No, it hasn't been perfect. In spite of everything, however, this unit has a lot to be proud of.

3. Jordan Davis, defensive tackle

It's year two. Jordan Davis looks like a different player. He's been dominant and has proven he IS a force on passing downs. It's going to be fun to watch him and Jalen Carter grow up together.

4. Terrell Edmunds, safety

One of the turning points of the most recent win came late in the second quarter. The Vikings were driving. A TD would have given them the lead. Instead, Terrell Edmunds forced a Justin Jefferson fumble that resulted in a touchback and change of possession.

Yep! That will earn you a spot on this list! This one helped Philly build some momentum to end the first half.

5. Jake Elliott, kicker

Following Jefferson's fumble, the Eagles were set up with first-and-ten at their own 20-yard line with 34 seconds remaining. That's all you need to get into field goal range when you have a weapon like Jake Elliott.

Five plays advanced the ball to the Minnesota 43-yard line. Jake drilled a 61-yarder as the first-half clock expired. That ten-point swing gave Philly some momentum heading into halftime. Thank goodness Jake is on our side.

6. Josh Sweat, EDGE/defensive end

Josh Sweat had a monster game. Try five quarterback hits and a sack on for size. That sack also resulted in a forced fumble and a subsequent Eagles TD. Sweaty just keeps on getting better.

7. The combo pack: Justin Evans/Nicholas Morrow

It didn't create any major shockwaves. Justin Evans' strip of Brandon Powell and Nicholas Morrow's subsequent recovery halted a long punt return that would have potentially set the Vikings up in scoring range.

This one will be forgotten, but it was a huge moment. Why? The Eagles may not have scored on their next drive, but this also kept Minnesota from doing so.

In short, these are the types of plays that equate to both wins and losses.

Check some of these stories as well.