Well, just like the Eagles on Sunday, our bold predictions series came to a shuddering halt. After going 0-5, we now stand at 6/25. Is this the week we can turn the ship around?
A statement:
There are several people claiming that this is a ‘franchise QB’ situation. A game where Carson Wentz should be called upon to carry the team in a must-win situation. The Eagles playoff probability improves by 27% with a win in the Meadowlands but with so many holes opening up, it’s going to take a lot to do so. Can Wentz lead the team out of the darkness with an inspired performance?
The truth is, Wentz has been electric considering his receiving corps has one of the worst drop rates in football and he has been hit more than the majority of starting QB’s over the last few weeks, with the disappearance of the run-game hardly helping. However, if it’s a remarkable game fans want, it’s something they may well get from a man who is looking less and less like he’s come back from an ACL tear just months ago and more and more like a super hero.
My first bold prediction is for Wentz to make a statement, throwing for 3 touchdowns, 300 yards and no turnovers.
Clement’s rise:
Corey Clement rose to the occasion during the week, telling reporters that he doesn’t believe that the Eagles need outside help. Well, it’s time to prove it. The former UDFA has been battling injury during the first quarter of the season but with no Ajayi or Sproles, he’s going to have to be at his very best if this team are to find any kind of balance.
If Clement can walk it like he talks it, I’m predicting he rushes for his first ever 100-yard game.
Green Goblin meets the Joker:
Jalen Mills has been the subject of criticism all season long and that probably won’t change anytime soon, especially if the Giants decide to move Odell around the line of scrimmage to try and lure him away from the instinctive Ronald Darby. If Mills is tasked with stopping Beckham Jr, it could be a long night for Eagles fans…unless he’s finally listened to the noise.
My third bold prediction is for Jalen Mills to show signs of improvement when it comes to his processing. Odell is as twitchy as they come and as explosive as he ever has been, Mills cannot afford to start chirping, firing off on ego-fueled cylinders or going all-in on a tackle when the route is yet to develop. Mills will pick off his first pass of the year, bat down two and amass 5 tackles.
Maddox makes a stand:
No Rodney McLeod, no Corey Graham. Instead, there’s a slightly smaller nickel corner who made his first NFL start last week and was able to keep his head above water. The Giants are going to try and burn the Eagles corners and attack underneath, knowing their skill-players have the speed to get ahead of their man. This means it’s wrap-up duty for Maddox, who happens to hit like a freight train.
Penultimately, I predict that Maddox is going to force a fumble with a thunderous hit and total 3 tackles on the night.
Brandon’s back:
Brandon Graham has just one sack this season…which seems almost shocking considering how important he’s been over the last few years and how dominant he’s been when rushing the passer. Part of this is down to offenses trying to get the ball out before trouble arrives, but a stale pocket QB and a leaking O-line may not have the strength to stop Graham from reminding the NFL that he’s among the league’s best.
Finally, I predict Graham to hit Manning three times, sacking him twice.
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
