Week 7 is the turning point for the Philadelphia Eagles. The first six games gave the Eagles a run for their money as their matchups were the third most difficult. However, from here on out, they have the second-easiest schedule remaining in the NFL.
With 11 games left this season, Iggles writers Alicia and Drew give their predictions for this week’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
EAGLES VS RAIDERS PREDICTIONS
Alicia’s Pick: Eagles, 27-24
Last week, the Eagles improved immensely in regard to penalties. Does this actually mean they’re learning? They’ve now had ten days to work through things after their Thursday night loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite a 2-4 record, they keep playing easily winnable games, but it’s just not happening. However, I think this changes on Sunday.
Philadelphia and Las Vegas have some commonalities as they head into Week 7. Both offenses struggle with the run, relying heavily on their passing game. This all works in Philadelphia’s favor as they rank 28th against the run but are capable of stopping big plays. In addition, the Raiders’ defense ranks 25th against the run, which means only one thing — now is the time to run the ball. Though Sirianni has no plans to change his play-calling, he may want to reconsider this week as too much pressure has been placed on Jalen Hurts so far this season.
The Eagles will also play with some minor changes that may make a big difference. Offensive tackle Lane Johnson will return after dealing with a personal matter. As he takes over the right side, this will send Jordan Mailata back to the left, where he is most comfortable. Tight end Dallas Goedert will also return after coming off the Reserve/COVID list.
I think Sunday’s game will be a big one for Philadelphia’s offense, and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave will surpass his career-high sacks.
The Eagles are 2-1 on the road; let’s hope they can make it three.
Drew’s Pick: Eagles 24-21
As Alicia noted, Las Vegas struggles heavily with the run. I think this is the game that Sirianni and the coaching staff finally back up their talk with action, and run the ball with Miles Sanders, who has the 14th best yards-per-carry average in the league (4.7). After all, you can’t win games unless you put your best players in good matchups – and that’s exactly the opportunity that’s present.
It will be interesting to see how the passing game looks. Las Vegas is allowing 222.7 passing yards/game, the tenth-best in the league (while Philly is fifth with 211.8). It will be a nice challenge for a team that struggles in the area: DeVonta Smith and Jalen Reagor have both shown bursts, but they simply aren’t getting enough yardage. The team needs a better gameplay in order to get them — along with newly made TE1 Dallas Goedert — more looks.
I think the Eagles do take this one. The team is coming off a tough loss, and they’re in desperate need of a solid victory on the road. Getting back key players will help, as could taking a different approach in play calling. It will be a close one throughout the game – and I think Jake Elliott gets the game winning field goal as time expires. Book it!
