Clayton Thorson does a thing
We’re starting off bold…really bold. Clayton Thorson was woeful in his first taste of NFL action, completing 2/9 passes and throwing a worrying interception. Having struggled since his arrival at the NovaCare Complex in May, Thorson may be on a short leash.
Sudfeld is injured, Wentz likely won’t play and Kessler is realistically going to get one half of action at most. The problem is, if Thorson wobbles again, it’s really limiting the chances for just about everyone else offensively to show what they can do.
However, Thorson comes up in big situations (somehow). Just look at his collegiate track record in reaching bowl games amidst adversity. With the time bomb well and truly ticking, I’m predicting Thorson to throw for over 150 yards, 2 touchdowns and 0 picks, completing 60% of his passes. I know…it won’t get much bolder than that.
Alex Singleton hive stand up
Singleton graded out as the Eagles’ most impactful player last week according to Pro Football Focus, and with the microscope focusing on the linebacker position over the next two weeks, I think Singleton simply has to stand out to keep his chances of making the roster as high as possible.
L.J Fort stole the linebacker spotlight last week and Gerry struggled, putting Singleton at an even-keel heading into tonight’s matchup.
I’m predicting the CFL’s 2017 defensive player of the year to lead the Eagles in tackles, building on a solid preseason debut and adding to the reasons why he should be kept around heading into next season.
Wendell Smallwood makes a statement
This game should have plenty of focus on running backs after last week’s underwhelming rushing effort. It was hard to really take anything away from the preseason opener when it came to running backs and that simply has to change tonight, with pressure on finding the remaining pieces of the depth chart beginning to build.
These are ‘Bold predictions’ after all and while it’s attractive to predict a Corey Clement or Boston Scott breakout, I think the bolder option here is Wendell Smallwood, who is running with his career on the line.
Smallwood is up against it this week and has to prove that there’s something he can bring to the offense worthy of a roster spot. I’m predicting a touchdown and 50 rushing yards with that in mind.
Jay Liggins towers over the Jaguars
The Eagles corners (namely McKinnon and Hawkins) had the highest of highs and lowest of lows last week, but it was UDFA Jay Liggins who was arguably the most consistent of the depth DB’s.
At 6’2, I think it’s only a matter of time until Liggins makes a big-time play, and the Jags have speedy receivers which are bound to lead to shots down the field. I’m predicting Liggins and his ball-swatting play to come up with 2 passes defensed and an INT tonight, firmly putting himself in the practice squad conversation.
Joshua Perkins steals the show
No Goedert, probably no Ertz, and question marks over Richard Rodgers. It’s easy to make a case for the Washington product who just has to make the most of this opportunity. Alex Ellis will be squabbling for snaps alongside him, but Perkins has enjoyed a strong Summer and may put the pieces together tonight.
I’m predicting his first touchdown pass as an Eagle and 30 receiving yards to come his way.
What are your bold predictions? Let us know below!
Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
