After 2 of our bold predictions landed last week, we’re finally headed down the right path once again. Now 3-15, will this be the first week of the season that we can land more than 50% of our picks? The Eagles are marching down to Tennessee for a clash with the Titans in what should be a very tense encounter. Here are the five bold predictions that a look into the crystal ball presents for a key week 4 showdown.
The best in the league:
The Eagles run defense has been simply incredible so far this season and is fresh off of holding Colts running backs to a horrifying performance. If not for a rogue Andrew Luck 30-yard dash, the team would’ve had under 40 yards of rushing offense. The Eagles now face a team who insist on pounding the rock and although both backs average under 4 yards per carry, the threat of an explosive Mariota has to be recognized. This is going to be a thrilling matchup of trench warfare, but there can only be one winner.
I’m predicting the Eagles to hold Tennessee to under 100 rushing yards in week 4. This may not sound like a bold prediction, but this is a team that is averaging 122 rushing yards per game and has done so against strong defensive fronts.
There’s only one Carson Wentz:
The face of the franchise showed the flashes of brilliance we’ve come to know and love last week, but there was understandably plenty of rust to shake off. In his second week back and with the juices flowing, we could be primed to see a more well-rounded showing from Carson Wentz, especially if Alshon Jeffery returns.
My second bold prediction is for Wentz to make people question if the ACL tear even happened, rushing for 30 yards and scoring a rushing touchdown, upstaging the fastest QB in the game, Marcus Mariota.
Matthews steps up:
Jordan Matthews recorded a pair of receptions for 21 yards in his first game as an Eagle since the end of 2016, but that was to be expected. The slot receiver had only re-signed with the team earlier that week and was also playing him his first game since the end of last season. Whether Jeffery returns or not, Matthews should see a slightly higher snap count in his second game in, thus raising his production.
Thirdly, I predict Matthews to record his first touchdown of the season and to receive for 50 yards.
Barnett’s barrage:
Derek Barnett may be one of the most improved players of the year for the Eagles so far. His presence on run defense is just outstanding and as a pass-rusher, Barnett already has 1.5 sacks and 3 tackles for a loss. The former Tennessee standout’s impact has been huge so far and against an offensive lineman in Lewan who while talented, could be less than 100%, we could see another big outing.
Penultimately, I’m predicting Derek Barnett to record a pair of sacks on Marcus Mariota as one of the Eagles most electric defensive playmakers.
Every Doug(las) has its day:
The Eagles now have a hole at Safety due to the injury to Rodney McLeod and while Corey Graham and a flurry fo practice squad depth could be valuable, watch for Rasul Douglas to play more snaps across the secondary as Schwartz tries to patch the wound.
Douglas has this inherent potential to make big play after big play when afforded the opportunity. I’m going to end today’s article by predicting Douglas picks off his second pass of the season and makes a firm statement to Jim Schwartz. That statement being that he’s ready to step up and make an impact if needed.
Mandatory Photo Credit: AP Photo/Matt Rourke
