The Philadelphia Eagles are back from their bye and are ready to take on their NFC East rivals. First up, the Washington Football Team. Both teams haven’t faced each other since the 2020 season. That year, Washington took both wins.
But this season may fare differently. Philadelphia and Washington are entering Week 15 with a 6-7 record and are fighting for a playoff spot, making both of their games this year (two weeks apart) an exciting showdown.
EAGLES VS. WASHINGTON PREDICTIONS
Alicia’s Pick: Eagles, 24-10
After winning only one home game this season, the Eagles will return to Lincoln Financial Field to take on Washington. However, fans aren’t sure what quarterback to expect for a second week. In Week 13 against the New York Jets, Gardner Minshew completed 20 of 25 attempts for 242 passing yards and two touchdowns. While Minshew Magic was happening, Jalen Hurts was resting an ankle injury, but after two weeks, Sirianni still isn’t sure if his QB1 is ready.
Both Miles Sanders and Jason Kelce are “trending” towards playing. This will be significant as the Eagles extend their rush game. Currently ranked first in the NFL, Philadelphia averages 160 rushing yards per game. They will go up against Washington’s depleted defense. Defensive end Chase Young is out with a season-ending leg injury, and a whopping 14 defensive players were placed on the Reserve/COVID-19 list. As of Saturday, three defensive ends and one tackle were activated.
Given the extensive list, there should be an overwhelming number of opportunities for whichever Eagles quarterback starts. This includes the chance for fans to see a decent pass game as Philadelphia should take advantage of Goedert and Smith.
The Football Team also added eight offensive players to their Reserve/COVID-19 list. Aside from that, they will also be without one of their best offensive players, Terry McLaurin, who is dealing with a concussion after last week.
Quarterback Taylor Heinicke has been doing well, but he equally does a great job turning the ball over. Starting the week as questionable, dealing with a knee injury, he was also added to the COVID list on Friday and will not play.
This one should be a lock for the Eagles, but boy, would I hate to jinx this. The game which was supposed to be played Sunday at 1 PM was moved to Tuesday at 7 PM. It’s safe to say the Eagles are not happy. I think they channel that energy and pull off the W.
So we have to suffer, and compromise our schedule because of another teams mistake. Make it make sense! Smh
— Rodney McLeod (@Rodney_McLeod4) December 17, 2021
If they win, Philadelphia will move into playoff spot #7; if not, well, better luck next year.
Drew’s Pick: Eagles 24-21
I think the decider for how this game turns out is the Eagles’ energy. The Birds should be beyond pissed that the NFL disregarded their good behavior when it comes to COVID protocols, and somehow rewarded the guilty team suffering from cases.
If Philadelphia can transform that pure rage into solid play, I think it’ll translate to a constant barrage of offense. Of course, it’s not a guarentee that happens. This is a team that has struggled to find an identity at times, plays down to their opponent, and just cannot capitalize on the precious opportunities presented to them.
The positive is that Washington could be without their top quarterback. Taylor Heinicke has yet to be cleared from COVID, while Kyle Allen has a decent chance to play. Star receiver Terry McLaurin — who has an insane 356 yards and three touchdowns in four games against the Eagles — may also not be 100% from the concussion he suffered last week.
Jalen Hurts returning will be a huge boon for the Eagles. In 2021, Washington has allowed opposing passers to throw for a 101.2 QB rating and 27 touchdowns (2.08/game) to just eight interceptions (0.62/game). However, Hurts’ mobility could be challenged – Washington has allowed an average of just 24.62 rushing yards a game to quarterbacks. If Hurts is struggling with passing and can’t rely on his running, the offense may see numerous stalls.
If Hurts can come out slinging, however, the Eagles should set themselves up for a nice evening. While I’m hesitant to say they dominate, I do think Philadelphia finally gets it done against a division opponent and continues their playoff push.
