Eagles-Raiders snap count analysis: Dannell Ellerbe takes over at middle linebacker

Here’s a breakdown of the snap counts from the Philadelphia Eagles' 19-10 win over the Oakland Raiders in Week 16.

OFFENSE

The offensive line played the entire game. Chance Warmack seemed to relatively hold his own at left guard again with Stefen Wisniewski out.

Alshon Jeffery only missed five offensive snaps but was held to two targets for zero yards. He had a chance make a catch on a pass thrown behind him but he couldn’t come up with it. After the game, Jeffery denied interview requests.

81% of the snaps feels very high for Torrey Smith, who just isn’t giving the Eagles a ton this year. Yet another week where I pine for more Mack Hollins.

Jay Ajayi and Corey Clement nearly had an even split at running back. With that said, their stats look a lot different. Ajayi: 14 carries for 52 yards (3.7 average), two receptions for 21 yards and one touchdown. Clement: two carries for 14 yards (7.0 average), one reception for six yards. Ajayi is the flashy guy while Clement is relied on to the do the dirty work, such as pass protection.

LeGarrette Blount’s playing time has taken a hit with the increase of Ajayi. Blount’s last four games: 27 carries, 71 yards, zero touchdowns. Plus three receptions for 14 receiving yards.

DEFENSE

Malcolm Jenkins and Nigel Bradham have played a lot of snaps this year. Those guys certainly deserve some time off in Week 17.

The Eagles usually go with a heavier rotation at defensive tackle but Fletcher Cox nearly played all the snaps. They should look to continue to rely on him more when the games matter most.

Jalen Mills missed a few snaps after getting banged up. Rasul Douglas, who was a healthy scratch last week, got some playing time in his absence.

Chris Long ended up playing the second most snaps of any defensive end because Brandon Graham suffered an ankle injury. After the game, Graham indicated the injury wasn’t serious. He was seen walking without a limp.

It feels like Tim Jernigan has been quiet for some time now.

Dannell Ellerbe got the start at middle linebacker in Philadelphia’s base defense. He finished the game with four total tackles (two solo) and one tackle for loss. Nice play.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Bryan Braman continues to have a big special teams role after returning to Philadelphia.

Isaac Seumalo has gone from being the undisputed left guard to only (barely) playing on special teams.

DID NOT PLAY

The following players were ruled inactive prior to the game: Stefen Wisniewski, Joe Walker, Shelton Gibson, Marcus Johnson, Steven Means, Elijah Qualls, Wendell Smallwood.

The following player(s) were active but did not play: Will Beatty and Nate Sudfeld.