The Philadelphia Eagles are facing a mounting issue that could potentially derail their season - their run defense. The team has struggled to contain opposing rushing offenses, with several games featuring over 30 carries and significant yardage allowed.
In recent weeks, the Cowboys and Bears have exploited the Eagles' vulnerability in the run game, averaging an impressive 6.0 yards per carry against them. The Giants, too, have had success running at the Eagles, particularly earlier this year when they ran for 172 yards on 39 carries.
One of the main concerns is that teams are taking advantage of the Eagles' defensive tackles, Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter, being double-teamed and pushed off the line of scrimmage. This has made it difficult for linebackers to get into position and tackle opposing running backs.
While some might argue that the offense's high three-and-out rate and poor third-down performance are contributing to the defense's fatigue, the issue is more complex than that. The team's depth at defensive tackle, particularly in the interior line, appears to be a significant concern.
Byron Young, the Eagles' fourth defensive tackle, has been playing an increased role of late, with 44% of his snaps coming on Friday. His production has not been as strong as it was last year, and he may need to step up again to help shore up the run defense.
Looking ahead to Monday's matchup against the Chargers, the Eagles will face a team that has rediscovered its run game, particularly with the potential return of Omarion Hampton from injured reserve. The Chargers have been using more runs in their recent games, averaging 30 or more carries in four of their last five contests, and Kimani Vidal has been a key contributor on the ground.
The extra rest this week for Hampton could give him an opportunity to make an impact against the Eagles. However, with quarterback Justin Herbert potentially sidelined due to surgery on his left hand, the Chargers' offense may need to rely more heavily on their run game as well.
Ultimately, the Eagles will need to address their run defense issues if they hope to remain competitive in the NFC East. With several key players struggling to contain opposing rushing attacks, it's clear that this is an area of concern that needs immediate attention.
In recent weeks, the Cowboys and Bears have exploited the Eagles' vulnerability in the run game, averaging an impressive 6.0 yards per carry against them. The Giants, too, have had success running at the Eagles, particularly earlier this year when they ran for 172 yards on 39 carries.
One of the main concerns is that teams are taking advantage of the Eagles' defensive tackles, Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter, being double-teamed and pushed off the line of scrimmage. This has made it difficult for linebackers to get into position and tackle opposing running backs.
While some might argue that the offense's high three-and-out rate and poor third-down performance are contributing to the defense's fatigue, the issue is more complex than that. The team's depth at defensive tackle, particularly in the interior line, appears to be a significant concern.
Byron Young, the Eagles' fourth defensive tackle, has been playing an increased role of late, with 44% of his snaps coming on Friday. His production has not been as strong as it was last year, and he may need to step up again to help shore up the run defense.
Looking ahead to Monday's matchup against the Chargers, the Eagles will face a team that has rediscovered its run game, particularly with the potential return of Omarion Hampton from injured reserve. The Chargers have been using more runs in their recent games, averaging 30 or more carries in four of their last five contests, and Kimani Vidal has been a key contributor on the ground.
The extra rest this week for Hampton could give him an opportunity to make an impact against the Eagles. However, with quarterback Justin Herbert potentially sidelined due to surgery on his left hand, the Chargers' offense may need to rely more heavily on their run game as well.
Ultimately, the Eagles will need to address their run defense issues if they hope to remain competitive in the NFC East. With several key players struggling to contain opposing rushing attacks, it's clear that this is an area of concern that needs immediate attention.
. Like im not saying their offense is perfect or anything but I feel like they shouldnt have 4 guys at D-line every play 
. And now Byron Young has to step up, that's a big ask from him 
. But if they wanna make it to the playoffs, they need 2 get this run game under control ASAP 
. And with the Chargers coming up, who are counting on Hampton's return, it's going to be a big test for Philly's run defense. They really need to get their act together if they want to stay competitive in the NFC East 
its like they're getting exploited left and right by all these teams averaging 6 yards per carry against them 
gotta see how byron young steps up to fill the gap he's been playing more snaps lately and we need to see some improvement ASAP 
. The Cowboys and Bears are taking advantage of their D-line being double-teamed and that's a big problem 
. I think Byron Young needs to step up his game ASAP 
because right now, he's not doing enough to help the team. It's not just about fatigue from the offense either, it's like they need to figure out how to stop the run period 
.
. It's gonna be a big test this week against the Chargers, especially if Omarion Hampton is back in the lineup 
...
their run D is a disaster they cant stop anyone on the ground and teams are just taking advantage of it lol @ jordandavis and jcarter, they gotta step up or theyre done 
now its not all on them tho, depth at dt is def a concern and byron young gotta bring his A game if he wants to help out 
. I saw this thread and thought I'd chime in. Honestly, I think the Eagles' run defense issue is more about overloading on their DTs than it is about linebackers not getting into position. They're trying to be too cute with double-teaming and pushing guys off the line of scrimmage, but it's not working out.
. The team can't rely on just Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter to stop everyone. And what's with the depth issues? They need more bodies in that interior line ASAP 
. It's gonna be tough against the Chargers, especially if Omarion Hampton comes back strong 
!