Eagles vs Buccaneers: Reasonable requests, bold expectations for Philly's Wild Card Round game

Bold predictions: Jalen Hurts throws for 350 yards without A.J. Brown.

We'd never insult your intelligence by telling you the Eagles don't need A.J. Brown. That would be asinine. Here's the thing though. They may be fine without him in this game.

DeVonta Smith will be back, That's fantastic news. We also expect there to be a more spirited effort by Philly's offense.

Dallas Goedert could have a big game in this one. There could also be a few Olamide Zaccheaus, Julio Jones, and Quez Watkins sightings.

Despite the offensive struggles, the Eagles finished the regular season ranked seventh in points per game and third in third-down conversions, so we expect them to get a lot done through the air even if the Bucs' defense brings the house on the blitz, which we expect them to do.

Bold predictions: Philly's defense registers two sacks and two turnovers.

We won't lie. Things have gotten worse for the Eagles' defense since the panic move came and Sean Desai was stripped of playcalling duties and the job was given to Matt Patricia.

This isn't a very good unit, but they've had a chance to rest and should look better than they have looked as of late. This could be their 'Where has that been?' or their 'Where did that come game'. We're looking for a few timely plays as they rack a couple of sacks and find a way to force a few turnovers which will prove to be the difference in this one.

Final score prediction: Eagles 27, Buccaneers 20

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