The Eagles defense will start 2010 with five new starters and in a lot of ways a new look. Sean McDermott has his first full offseason in charge of the defense, the team went heavy on defense in the 2009 draft, and they traded away longtime corner and leader Sheldon Brown. The new look Eagles defense gets it's first major test right off the bat with Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers.
Last season Rodgers threw for 30 TDs, only 7 picks, and over 4,400 yards. McDermott talked about the important of getting to Rodgers with the pass rush Sunday.
"Against any opponent you want to get to the quarterback and Aaron Rodgers is no different. He's a great quarterback and he's experienced a heck of a career to this point. So they're a great offense, and he's their leader on offense and getting to the quarterback is a necessity."
He was also asked about the quick drop backs and fast release that Rodgers has used so well.
"I think it's the way [Packers head] coach [Mike] McCarthy has shaped that offense, and you see things that he does that continues to put their receivers in a position to make plays, and then the run after the catch. So, is it three-step, is it five-step? It's both. Is there a seven-step? Yes, there is. So that's what makes it the toughest thing to handle, is the timing is so inconsistent in terms of what they're trying to do and when they're trying to do it. It will be a great challenge for us."