Eagles vs Bears instant observations: Run defense, lingering issues have officially started Birds' slide
The Eagles' woes are real as they fell to 8-4 after a crushing loss to the resurgent Bears. The Birds' inability to stop the run and mask their porous pass offense is an issue that needs addressing quickly.
Nick Sirianni's decision-making on Friday night was particularly puzzling, with the coach opting to take the clock to the two-minute warning before halftime and attempting a questionable fourth-quarter conversion attempt that ended in failure. This type of play-calling can be damaging to momentum and leaves one wondering if the Eagles' coach has lost his edge.
The Bears' 282-yard rushing performance was historic, with multiple backs reaching over 100 yards. For the Eagles, the lack of production from their interior defensive linemen was glaring, particularly after being exposed by a 142-yard rushing performance against an iDL unit that doesn't see much action elsewhere in the league.
Their inability to convert on third down and maintain possession also raised concerns about the team's overall ability to sustain drives. Jalen Hurts' inconsistent decision-making has led to turnovers, and his tendency to throw behind receivers like DeVonta Smith instead of targeting them in space is a glaring omission.
The Bears' aggressive approach against Sydney Brown was effective, with Caleb Williams finding him twice in the end zone only to have him jump over and secure two passes. The Chargers will likely employ a similar strategy, which could pose problems for the Eagles.
Britain Covey's decision to signal for a fair catch at the 8-yard line in the third quarter raised eyebrows among fans and observers alike, with many questioning his judgment on play-calling.
The overall takeaway is that this loss highlights the lingering issues plaguing the Eagles' run defense, pass protection, and ability to maintain possession. They'll have a chance to turn things around next week against the Chargers, but if they can't start winning games consistently, it may be too late for this season.
The Eagles' woes are real as they fell to 8-4 after a crushing loss to the resurgent Bears. The Birds' inability to stop the run and mask their porous pass offense is an issue that needs addressing quickly.
Nick Sirianni's decision-making on Friday night was particularly puzzling, with the coach opting to take the clock to the two-minute warning before halftime and attempting a questionable fourth-quarter conversion attempt that ended in failure. This type of play-calling can be damaging to momentum and leaves one wondering if the Eagles' coach has lost his edge.
The Bears' 282-yard rushing performance was historic, with multiple backs reaching over 100 yards. For the Eagles, the lack of production from their interior defensive linemen was glaring, particularly after being exposed by a 142-yard rushing performance against an iDL unit that doesn't see much action elsewhere in the league.
Their inability to convert on third down and maintain possession also raised concerns about the team's overall ability to sustain drives. Jalen Hurts' inconsistent decision-making has led to turnovers, and his tendency to throw behind receivers like DeVonta Smith instead of targeting them in space is a glaring omission.
The Bears' aggressive approach against Sydney Brown was effective, with Caleb Williams finding him twice in the end zone only to have him jump over and secure two passes. The Chargers will likely employ a similar strategy, which could pose problems for the Eagles.
Britain Covey's decision to signal for a fair catch at the 8-yard line in the third quarter raised eyebrows among fans and observers alike, with many questioning his judgment on play-calling.
The overall takeaway is that this loss highlights the lingering issues plaguing the Eagles' run defense, pass protection, and ability to maintain possession. They'll have a chance to turn things around next week against the Chargers, but if they can't start winning games consistently, it may be too late for this season.