The Eagles are less than 24-hours away from returning to action and will be hoping to ignite a three-game winning streak in a clash against the Giants. For that to happen they’ll need some big-time moments from big-time players. Here are five bold predictions ahead of the matchup.
Reagorbomb
Jalen Reagor’s return to the Eagles offense prior to the bye week was quiet, as expected. After dealing with a thumb injury, Reagor came back to play in 48 snaps, catching 3 passes for 16 yards.
With a bye week now behind him and some added time to rest, there’s no reason he shouldn’t be full-go this weekend. James Bradberry should be tasked with keeping Fulgham tamed, which means Isaac Yiadom (questionable with injury) will be matched up on Reagor. He has a 51 PFF grade this season.
As much as we all want Carson Wentz to be more conservative with the football, I have a feeling he’s finally going to connect with Jalen Reagor on a deep 50+ yard touchdown – something we’ve seen narrowly pass us by on a couple of occasions.
A change of heart
Carson Wentz has endured a torrid start to the season. Ranking near the bottom of every metric imaginable, Wentz has played recklessly and made some terrible decisions along the way. His total lack of supporting cast and help along the offensive front certainly hasn’t helped, but maybe a bye week will act as a time for reflection.
Wentz has to be better. Not in terms of ability, because we all know he has it. He has to be more protective with the football, careful with his placement, and methodical in his decision-making.
With so much noise being made about his play this season (and rightfully so), I think Wentz comes out of the bye with a healthy group of receivers, a rejuvenated offensive line, and a change of heart.
My second bold prediction is that Wentz commits 0 turnovers and completes 65% of his passes this Sunday.
Pro Bowl bound for Eagles DE
Brandon Graham is having an incredible year. The 32-year-old has racked up 7 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 9 tackles for loss, and 11 QB hits so far, and is showing no signs of slowing down.
The Eagles create the third-highest highest pressure rate in the NFL and the Giants offensive line surrenders the highest. 1+1 doesn’t equal 3.
I predict that Brandon Graham will add a further 2 sacks to his tally as his race to a double-digit sack season and a Pro Bowl appearance heats up.
Fulgham dominates again
Travis Fulgham put up 73 yards on 6 receptions when he last played the G-men, including a huge 40-yard catch that sparked the offense. Fulgham leads the NFL in receiving since week 4. That’s no joke. He means business.
James Bradberry is having a good year in New York, but it wasn’t enough to stop Fulgham the first time and it won’t be enough to stop him now. I’m predicting TF13 to put up his second 100+ yard game of the year and record touchdown number 5.
A much-needed Eagles breakout
The Eagles have plenty of issues to work through, but only a few rest on defense. With depth at cornerback looking scarce, the Eagles have really needed Avonte Maddox to step up at CB2. Injuries and inconsistent play have prevented him from becoming a reliable running-mate for Darius Slay.
Against the Giants, he’ll have a slightly easier matchup. While it’s Slay vs Slayton 2.0, Maddox will line up against Sterling Shepard, who is a former slot receiver with 248 yards to his name and has been bumped outside due to Golden Tate’s arrival. At 5’10, this gives Maddox, of similar stature, a fighting chance at making an impact.
My final bold prediction is that Maddox picks off his first interception of the season.
Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire
