Today we continue the 2015 October edition of Philadelphia Eagles approval polls with defensive coordinator Bill Davis. Don't forget to vote in the Chip Kelly approval poll from Thursday if you missed out on that.
There's no question Philadelphia's defense has been the strength of this Eagles team through four games. For the most part, the offense hasn't carried its' weight and all the pressure has been on the defense to keep this team in the game. The Eagles defense has played 325 snaps so far.
Despite being on the field for so long, the Eagles' defense has performed well. Philadelphia's defense ranks fifth overall by Football Outsiders; 10th against the pass and second against the run. Pro Football Focus ranks the Eagles defense fourth overall; third in run defense, 15th in pass rush, and 10th in pass coverage. The Eagles allow the fifth least yards per play in the NFL. They allow the seventh least points per play.
Davis has this unit playing pretty well despite having to deal with several significant injuries. Kiko Alonso and Mychal Kendricks have essentially been out since Week 2, and rookie third round pick Jordan Hicks has played at a very high level while replacing them. Brandon Bair had heck of a game against the Jets while filling in for starting defensive end Cedric Thornton and top backup Taylor Hart. Nolan Carroll looks very improved in his second year with the team. Rookie cornerback Eric Rowe has shown some positive flashes. The front seven still looks pretty strong, although the pass rush could afford to be better. Philadelphia ranks tied for 23rd in sacks with only six.
Overall, while he hasn't been perfect, I think Davis has done a good job. One could imagine how much better the Eagles defense could be if the offense could actually pick up first downs and sustain drives on a regular basis.
So, do you approve of the job Bill Davis is doing as the Eagles defensive coordinator? Vote now in the poll below and leave your thoughts in the comments.
Bill Davis approval polls: