Hoping to make it 21 Eagle games in a row picking the winner, here is my breakdown of Sunday's game with the Buccaneers in Tampa.
Bucs journeyman QB Ryan Fitzpatrick can't have two great games in a row, can he? He led the Buccaneers to a stunning 48-40 victory in New Orleans over the favored Saints last weekend. Tampa has weapons in wide receivers Mike Evens and ex-Eagle DeSean Jackson, but DeJac may not play this week with a concussion. He has torched the Birds since he left the team in the past.
Tampa Bay's defense did give up 40 points to Drew Brees last week. Not a shame. It's their home opener but don't be surprised if most of the stadium is filled with Philly fans.
Nick Foles will start this week, possibly his last game before Carson Wentz returns against Indianapolis next week.
Fitzpatrick will need to deal with the Birds' defensive line, especially Fletcher Cox. Will he have time to find those many weapons?
Meanwhile, can the Eagles get their act together on offense? Jeffery won't be back. Foles needs to elan on the ground game of Ajayi and Clemente, along with tight ends Ertz and Goehard to move the ball. The return game with Sproles could also play a factor, and a defensive score would help. As always, turnovers will be key.
It will be warm and muggy in Florida. The hurricane shouldn't effect the game. Both teams are 1-0. Who needs or wants it more? This should be the easier part of the Eagles' schedule, even without Wentz. Tougher squads such as the Vikings, Rams and the NFC East are on the horizon. A win over an average Tampa Bay team is needed so we don't regret the loss later down the road. Stockpile the wins now and earn a cushion for later in the season.
Make it Eagles 31 Buccaneers 16.
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