Previewing the Eagles’ defense against the Redskins’ offense

Every remaining divisional game is essentially must-win for the Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles. We know this. Step one is taking care of business at home on Monday Night Football against the Washington Redskins.

How do you do that with a decimated defense that nearly imploded against the lowly New York Giants? Well, luckily the Eagles were able to buckle down for a half which gave the offense a chance to claw their way back into the game. Also working in their favor is the Redskins’ quarterback situation.

The Redskins will likely stay as aggressive with Colt McCoy under center as they did against the Dallas Cowboys. This has been well documented. It will afford the defense plenty of opportunities to make game altering plays, but it will also test their linebackers and secondary in coverage in the intermediate and deep areas of the field.

What’s the magic combination of players or the best course of action with the available players? We attempt to figure that out while detailing what the Eagles will be up against schematically and in the individual matchups in the newest Kist & Solak Show.

Nigel Bradham is dealing with a broken thumb which means Nate Gerry is the next man up at MIKE linebacker. If Bradham can’t go, can Gerry fill his shoes? Or should the Eagles get creative with how they communicate their calls?

What happens if the Eagles don’t get a key secondary player back? Who should play outside and who should play nickel? As a teaser, I pounded the table for Cre’von LeBlanc to start over Chandon Sullivan. He’s more experienced, more reliable and playing with more confidence (even if he did get away with some... tugs).

What does the interior line depth issues for the Redskins’ tell us about who will have a big day from the Eagles front four? The Redskins’ fluid situation has caused them to be susceptible to stunts and line games which is where Michael Bennett excels. It could also lead to Brandon Graham getting a favorable matchup when kicked inside on long passing downs. As always Fletcher Cox has a plus matchup because he’s Fletcher Cox.

You can hear our thoughts on all of these matters on the media player below or click here if the player doesn’t load. As a bonus and a thank you we also read our favorite recent Apple Podcast reviews. We appreciate the support and FLY EAGLES FLY!