There isn’t a team playing better than the Philadelphia Eagles through the first three games of the season. Through a combination of stellar defense and excellent offense, the Eagles have overwhelmed their opponents with a mesh of perfectly combined talent. For just the 11th time in their team’s history, the Eagles are 3-0.
A look back in time
In 2016, the Eagles had a new coach and quarterback battling out tough wins to a quick 3-0 start. In 2014, the team pulled out miracle finish after miracle finish to a 3-0 start. The 2004 team blew off the opening gates to a 7-0 start (the best in team history) to finish 13-3 and a Super Bowl appearance.
Two of the three last 3-0 Eagles teams have missed the playoffs. After the 2022 team reached the undefeated mark during Sunday’s 24-8 win over Washington, comparisons have been made to past Super Bowl teams and special seasons. But past history should also show a warning to fans thinking the season is already wrapped.
The Eagles are bucking the trend
The Eagles have dominated for the first three games of the season. Their +36-point differential is the highest by far in the NFC and third in all of football. But if the Eagles are to be true Super Bowl contenders, coaching and their leadership must remain steadfast.
Philadelphia hasn’t played bad football teams to start the year, but they also haven’t played the league’s best. With teams like Green Bay, Dallas (with Dak), and Arizona waiting on the schedule, the idea that Philadelphia can play the same way they have is a mistake.
The NFC East, as an entire division, has a weak schedule. Their toughest opponents haven’t looked their best either. But if they are to truly be considered as true contenders in an open NFC, the mindset of the coaching staff and the players must remain the same.
The Eagles clearly have the right coach and quarterback at the helm, but, as Jalen Hurts has said before “the job isn’t finished.”
AP Photo/Matt Slocum
