It’s been a low-scoring affair so far in Lincoln Financial field, but it hasn’t been without drama. The Eagles go into the half up 7-0 but the game has gone in a direction that not many had expected. Here are some quick hits for the halftime period.
RUN THE BALL:
Those three words echoed around the city all week and it seems as though Doug Pederson may have listened. LeGarrette Blount exploded onto the scene with six first half carries for 35 yards and a touchdown, while the Eagles have rushed a combined total of 18 times while Wentz has only thrown 12. This has enabled the Eagles Offense to completely control the tempo of the game, with an 18 play drive leading to the Eagles only touchdown of the half. The Birds’ have had 19 minutes of possession in the first half…it’s amazing what difference running the ball can make.
Rasul’s running rampant:
I predicted it in my “five bold predictions” series earlier this weekend, Rasul Douglas stunned the world by coming down with his first career interception on a deep shot against Brandon Marshall. Showcasing his length and ballhawk mentality, Douglas proved a point in the first half. He’s not to be overlooked…and the ceiling is sky-high.
Injuries:
Darren Sproles left with a wrist injury while Jordan Hicks and Fletcher Cox were listed as questionable to return. The Linc is a boiling pot and even though cramping is likely going to become an issue, the Eagles depleted Defense continues to lose big names…although the injuries don’t appear to be serious at this stage.
Pederson bailed out:
It’s 4th and 8 at around midfield. Doug Pederson goes for it. Why? Well, we can’t explain it either, but the decision to halve the distance that the Giants would need to travel to score nearly cost the team dearly. The Giants travelled right down to the goal-line before a series of absurd plays and strong Defense saw Schwartz bail out the Eagles Head Coach. The definition of a close shave.
Offensive line needs work:
Carson Wentz hasn’t thrown anywhere near as much as we’re used to seeing, but it’s gotten to the point where Wisniewski is now playing at left guard. Seumalo wasn’t good enough, then Warmack wasn’t good enough…so what happens next? The right side of the line looks solid but the further away from Lane Johnson you stray, the more questions arise.
Giants going underneath:
It’s all been tempo for the Giants so far, with all of their passes coming on slants, screens and quick shots. The Eagles are showing a lot of respect to the Giants receiving corps with their coverages, but tackling is strong and they’re yet to allow the big play. It feels like the loss to Green Bay last year, only this time, the Eagles are fighting back.
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
