After a horrific start to the 2020 season, the Eagles look to bounce back after a crushing 27-17 loss to the Washington Football Team. Doug Pederson looks to once again get the better of Sean McVay. The Eagles have won both matchups against the Rams under Doug Pederson. Most recently, a 30-23 victory with Nick Foles under center.
Eagles Keys to Victory
If the Eagles plan on avoiding the dreaded 0-2 hole, they will need a much better team effort this Sunday. While the defense did give up 27 points, the defeat did not rest on their shoulders. The offense was putrid, and the Eagles cannot afford another similar showing. First things first, Philly has to have better play from their offensive line. Lane Johnson returning to action is helpful. Still, allowing eight sacks to a young but talented Washington team was unacceptable. Similar play this week will have much worse results, as the Rams have elite talent on their defensive line.
Carson Wentz
Carson has to be more accurate on his passes. If the offensive line deteriorates at a similar rate this week, Carson has to have a quick trigger. Staying in the pocket and taking sacks that result in missed field goals isn’t going to get the job done. Look for Wentz to bounce back in a big way. This Rams defense is very talented, but it’s still exploitable. The addition of Miles Sanders to the starting lineup will help in that aspect. Having a balanced attack on Sunday will be vital to the Eagles’ success. Starting the game with quick passes and tough, downhill runs will open up the field for Wentz and co.
Eagles Defense
The Eagles defense will have to be at the top of their game this Sunday. If there is anything we’ve learned from previous Eagles vs. Rams matchups, points are scored rapidly. If the Eagles are going to pull out a win, this defense will have to force Goff into some mistakes. Darius Slay shut down Terry McLaurin last Sunday. A similar effort will be required again as the Rams have two explosive receivers in Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp.
Last week the Eagles lost Vinny Curry to IR, and Brandon Graham is questionable to take the field this Sunday. However, Philly is looking to get back Derek Barnett and Javon Hargrave. Having Malik Jackson, Fletcher Cox, Javon Hargrave, and Derek Barnett all healthy for this game could drastically alter the outcome. Getting pressure on Jared Goff will be one of the most important keys to a Philadelphia victory.
Final Prediction
Doug Pederson and Carson Wentz are going to take the field this Sunday and get the job done. It’s as simple as that. The Eagles should have multiple players returning to action this Sunday, and it will make all the difference. A balanced offensive attack and a determined Carson Wentz get the job done. Eagles take this one 31-27, and Doug Pederson moves to 3-0 against Sean McVay.
