The Eagles won a big game in Buffalo ob Sunday, dominating the host Bills 31-13. The game was played in rainy, windy weather, which turned out to be advantage Eagles. They stuck to the run game, featuring Jordan Howard and Miles Sanders, and piled up over 200 yards in rushing.
Turnovers were again big, as the Birds capitalized on a key Buffalo fumble late in the first half. Sanders broke a huge 65-yard sprint to the end zone early in the 3rd quarter and the rout was on.
QB Carson Wentz had a good day, even though his personal stats were down because of the weather conditions. In particular, Wentz ran the ball for key first downs. Wentz is using that part of his game more and more, which only expands his arsenal of weapons. It also shows he is healthy, as long as Wentz is wise about his running.
The defensive secondary played a better game, especially CB Ronald Darby. DT Fletcher Cox, LB Brandon Graham and the rest of the defense got continuing pressure on bills QB Josh Allen all day. Buffalo has a good defense, which is ranked 4th overall in the NFL, but they are weak on offense. They have good but not great play makers in Frank Gore and Cole Beasley.
Credit the Birds for coming together after a brutal week full of off the field nonsense. Maybe Orlando Scandrick's stupid remarks about the squad after he was cut may have motivated the team. It worked, as Philly showed life and kept their season afloat.
So, thanks to the Phillies, the Eagles played 3 straight road games in October. They finished the run 1-2, and now look forward to an entire month at home, starting with the Chicago Bears next Sunday at the Linc. Take at least 2 of 3 from the bears, Patriots and Seahawks and the Birds seem to be in good shape heading into the final 5 games, all of which seem favorable to win. I'm sure the Eagles have the cowboy game at home circled on the calender, which would be a nice Christmas gift for the fans, seeing how Dallas embarrassed the Birds just a week ago.
Until DeSean Jackson returns ( I would hold him out of the Chicago game. With the bye the following week, bring him back the new England week), Coach Doug Pederson would be wise to continue to stress the running game. Or maybe GM Howie Rossman will trade for a speedy wide receiver before the Tuesday trade deadline. Secondary help and another defensive tackle is also on the trade wish list.
Since Dallas had a bye, the Birds are now 4-4, a half-game behind the Cowboys in NFC East. Dallas travels to New York this week to face the struggling Giants. The Eagles just need to keep on winning and take care of business at home.
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