Bleeding Green Nation - Eagles vs. Cardinals 2017: Updates, time, TV schedule, predictions and morePhiladelphia Eagles rumors, news, analysis, roster updates, depth charts and more.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47571/bleedinggreennation_fave.png2017-10-12T17:36:09-04:00http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/rss/stream/162075692017-10-12T17:36:09-04:002017-10-12T17:36:09-04:00Watch Malcolm Jenkins mic’d up during the Eagles-Cardinals game
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<p>Jenkins talks Wentz, Agholor, and more</p> <p id="LxbbRs"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Eagles</a> safety <span>Malcolm Jenkins</span> was mic’d up for Philadelphia’s home game against the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a> in Week 5. You can watch the entire clip below.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Y'all wanna be good? Or y'all wanna be GREAT?" -<a href="https://twitter.com/MalcolmJenkins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MalcolmJenkins</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Eagles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eagles</a> win BIG in Week 5!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyEaglesFly?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyEaglesFly</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/nflnetwork?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFLNetwork</a> <a href="https://t.co/6aK899Hefd">pic.twitter.com/6aK899Hefd</a></p>— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLFilms/status/918526099088220160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2017</a>
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<p id="mFHjf2">Some important observations:</p>
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<li id="JHWrQa">How about Jenkins doing the <span>Brian Dawkins</span> crawl out of the tunnel! That’s respect right there.</li>
<li id="XIGCne">Gotta Jenk firing everybody up with his pre-game huddle speech.</li>
<li id="QRWWRQ">“Tell them to throw that over here, Larry.” — Jenkins did a really good job on Larry Fitzgerald. Fitz had three receptions for 31 yards before the Cardinals’ final drive in garbage time. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz praised him for his coverage on the infamous Eagles Killer.</li>
<li id="rWwJ7b">Love Jenkins’ conservation with <span>Corey Graham</span>. “He’s looking like Big Ben, bro.” — “He’s gonna be like a Roethlisberger, but even more agile though.” — Graham: “I don’t know he do that, bro.”</li>
<li id="phZmgV">Jenkins and <span>Nelson Agholor</span> would get real heated in training camp at times. Fun to see that level of competition and then have it turn around for Jenkins to be happy for his teammate when <span>Agholor</span> is beating their opponents instead of him.</li>
<li id="9PhXtx">“On to the next, though. On to the next.” — Yep. Eagles vs. <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> tonight.</li>
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https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/12/16467026/malcolm-jenkins-micd-up-eagles-cardinals-game-philadelphia-arizona-carson-wentz-nelson-agholorBrandon Lee Gowton2017-10-11T09:47:56-04:002017-10-11T09:47:56-04:00Kenjon Barner named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week
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<p>Well done.</p> <p id="qiObah"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> running back/punt returner <span>Kenjon Barner</span> has been named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance in Week 5 of the 2017 NFL season. </p>
<p id="epB9og">Barner returned three punts for a total of 110 yards in the Eagles’ 34-7 win over the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a>. His longest return of the day was a 76-yard effort. On that play, Barner did a nice job of making a few players miss before bursting into the open field.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kenjon Barner is a...barn burner on that run. <a href="https://t.co/hgYhZGyQ6D">pic.twitter.com/hgYhZGyQ6D</a></p>— Chris Jastrzembski (@CFJastrzembski) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFJastrzembski/status/917078374916526081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p id="3kIjoq">It’s kind of crazy to think how Barner was just sitting on the market after being cut by the <a href="https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/">Chargers</a> this summer and now he’s back in Philly making big plays in the absence of <span>Darren Sproles</span>. Obviously a great decision by the Eagles to re-sign him. </p>
<p id="CZRA4j">Barner is the second Eagles player to be named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week this season. <span>Jake Elliott</span> won the award thanks to his game-winning 61-yard field goal in Week 3. That’s certainly a great reflection on special teams coordinator Dave Fipp.</p>
<p id="fhpDnu">Barner joins Darren Sproles, <span>DeSean Jackson</span>, <span>Brian Westbrook</span>, and Brian Mitchell as punt returners to win NFC Special Teams Player of the Week with the Eagles. That’s some pretty good company. </p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/11/16458152/kenjon-barner-nfc-special-teams-player-week-philadelphia-eagles-punt-return-running-back-oregonBrandon Lee Gowton2017-10-11T09:17:01-04:002017-10-11T09:17:01-04:00Carson Wentz Report: Week 5
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<p>After a stellar game in Los Angeles, the Eagles franchise quarterback takes it to the next level.</p> <p id="ykPQ47"><em>There are a lot of narratives that have divided the NFL community when it comes to the opinion of </em><span><em><strong>Carson Wentz</strong></em></span><em>. This will be a weekly installment that focuses solely on the </em><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/"><em><strong>Eagles</strong></em></a><em>’ young signal caller, with analysis, evidence and statistics along with context to provide a deep dive on Wentz’s play.</em></p>
<p id="UF6uND">Welcome back to the Wentz report. You can find all previous Wentz reports <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/carson-wentz-report">here</a>. A week after having arguably his best game, Carson Wentz stepped up and produced his best statistical output of his young career, throwing four touchdowns! </p>
<h1 id="g7kPSl">Interceptable Throws (ITs)</h1>
<p id="I3I3p3">As always, this applies to throws that defenders did intercept and or realistically could have. This week Wentz cut down on dangerous throws, with only two that may have been deemed ITs. This statistic is subjective, so I try to present every IT or throw that some may see as an IT and explain my standpoint on it.</p>
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<p id="lQLkKP">This first one I didn't deem an IT because <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Cardinals</a> cornerback <span>Patrick Peterson</span> made a good play on the ball, but based on body position, it didn't appear that there was anyway he was going to be able to get two feet in bounds. I also believe that this may have partially been on receiver error. It appears as though Carson Wentz is anticipating Smith breaking into a comeback route, but he never does. I can see an argument for this being and IT, but based on position, this one doesn't go down as a strike.</p>
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<p id="dBzPxZ">This one was egregious. It came directly after the last play and Wentz was fearless in attacking downfield, but there are two problems. The first is that the Eagles were in position to kick a manageable field goal and get points before the half, and the second is that Wentz telegraphed this play the whole way. It would've taken an otherworldly throw to hit Ertz, but Wentz’s eyes led the safety to the spot overtop where he wanted to go with the ball. Situational awareness has to kick in here and Wentz has to take better care of the football. Hopefully, for his sake he’ll learn from this and cut down on this sort of mistake.</p>
<p id="zFoc6l">Mistakes actually lead me to my next point. Matt Waldman shared <a href="https://mattwaldmanrsp.com/2012/08/16/quarterback-development-when-practice-reports-are-useless/?utm_content=buffereb32b&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer">this article that he wrote a few years ago</a> on Twitter. I found an interesting quote on it from none other than <span>Tom Brady,</span> that I believe is relevant to Wentz and the interceptable throws he makes. </p>
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<p id="Ad5Y9N">“A lot of times you learn from your mistakes. You know, you gotta make the mistakes to learn from them,” he said. “And you never know how tight a window is until you throw it, and it was too tight. You try to force a ball into certain areas and then you learn from it, you say, ‘I can’t do that.’ You install new plays and you try to run them over and over and you try to identify all the problems where they come up and then really make good decisions.</p>
<p id="mQLT5i">“We’re out here running a ton of plays every day, 75, 80 plays a day,” he continued. “Believe me, they’re not all perfect, there’s a lot of learning every day in a lot of the situational stuff that we do. All of it is a good learning experience, whether Ryan or Brian are in there taking the snap, I’m paying attention to see what I would do if I was in there and vice versa. And that’s the only way to play football, you can’t sit here and only concentrate when you’re in. You gotta learn from every day on the field, every rep in practice, mentally and then physically when you get a chance to go out and do it, you gotta try to execute it as best you can.”</p>
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<p id="oCEf97">That’s an interesting quote and good perspective from the greatest quarterback of all time. Every throw that Wentz is making, hopefully he’s learning from it and applying it to his game. His ITs seem to be trending downward over the last few weeks, but ample protection and skill players that are performing better than those in 2016 are also helping that case. Every quarterback needs help, so its not right to fault somebody for what’s around them. We hear this argument for <span>Dak Prescott</span>, that he was a product of what was around him. While I believe that certainly helped, I don't believe that to be completely true. Good quarterbacks can elevate the players around them, whether that’s the offensive line or skill position players. We’ve seen Prescott elevate those around him, just as we’ve seen Wentz do this year. If you need evidence of that, just look at Zach Ertz’s early season production.</p>
<p id="PWhVqS">The last point I want to make about Wentz’s interceptable throws is that, I feel as though it’s nitpicked because a lot of analysts have an opinion they’re not willing to come off of. While that’s fine and they’re entitled to those opinions, they’re quick to point to those flaws and only those flaws. While they do need cleaned up and Wentz must be smarter with the football, let’s look at Carson Palmer’s game Sunday as an example. Palmer had four ITs dropped by the Eagles, but I haven't heard anything about that. When I watched <span>Sam Bradford</span> on Monday night, it appeared that he threw two ITs on the same drive that weren't corralled by the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Bears</a>’ defense. Albeit Bradford was hurt, but either way, if you're playing that strike goes against you. During the Eagles bye week I intend to study quarterbacks around the league and see how often they throw ITs as compared to what I have for Wentz.</p>
<h1 id="jlA6fa">Managing the Pocket</h1>
<p id="3MOi8G">I thought Wentz was terrific at managing the pocket on Sunday, but that becomes easier when a stud offensive line is mauling pass rushers, but you take what they give you to work with. </p>
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<p id="J9GDi4">When the Cardinals did bring pressure, I thought Wentz typically did a good job of stepping up in the pocket and avoiding it. Here the Cardinals get pressure off the edge and up the middle. Wentz steps up and avoids both rushers all while keeping his eyes down the field and setting up to pass. Nobody is open and Wentz makes the split second decision to pull it down and run for the green in front of him. Wise decision and good management of taking what is given.</p>
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<p id="MtFoQw">Same thing here. Wentz doesn't get panicked. He tucks the ball into his body, sidesteps the blitzer and takes off for the field in front of him. Unfortunately the defender grabs him by the ankle before Wentz is able to get in the open field and pick up some serious yards.</p>
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<p id="TlUrAm">This was a fun play, but i have to chalk it up to dumb luck more than Wentz knowing what he was doing. There’s no way he saw the edge defender that close to him and knew he was going to avoid the sack. What I do like from Wentz here, as I did on the last few plays, is that he seems to be holding on tighter and keeping the football closer to his body when pressure situations are arising. This helps avoid the possibility of fumbles, showing increased ball security.</p>
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<p id="vRI7kT">This play was beautiful in every facet. First off, I’m not sure why the Cardinals are blitzing here in a 3rd and 19 situation, but they do. Wentz manages the rush beautifully by stepping up in the pocket and effortlessly leading <span>Nelson Agholor</span> deep across the field, and that low snap that he handled well is nothing to scoff at either. I’ll mention this in a moment, but Wentz’s deep ball has looked better overall the last two weeks. I’m not going to say that’s here to stay, as he needs to maintain the consistency and accuracy with it over several weeks and even a full season, but it was encouraging how good he looked. </p>
<h1 id="xzEX9O">Throwing with anticipation, accuracy and deep ball accuracy</h1>
<p id="5GdW8f">As this series is an effort the point out the consistencies in Wentz’s game whether those are good consistencies or bad consistencies, the improvements or regressions will be noted. As I mentioned earlier the deep ball has improved for Wentz over the last few weeks.</p>
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<p id="8D0XiY">The play above was Wentz’s third touchdown of the game. I’ve been mentioning for the last few weeks that the Eagles’ offense has been limited by the inability to hit that deep ball with any consistency. Two of the Eagles’ four touchdowns came on long passing plays, reminiscent of the days when Desean Jackson and <span>Jeremy Maclin</span> were running wild through secondaries. With a weapon and facet like that, the Eagles offense becomes lethal and takes the next step. This gives the Eagles the ability to score at any given point with consistency as long as Wentz can deliver the deep ball accurately and his receivers can hang on to it. Whether it be drops or inaccuracy, the Eagles haven't been nearly as successful as what they would like with opportunities clearly there. Sunday was the perfect display of what they can do when they're clicking and based on what we saw, it can elevate the Eagles to the next level. Looking deeper into this play, it’s just another testament to what Doug Pederson has done from a schematics standpoint. The Eagles run mesh concepts underneath, which occupy the safeties in what looks like Cover 4. The cornerback on <span>Torrey Smith</span> plays with leverage to the outside, indicating he believes he has inside help. It isn't there. From here Wentz delivers from a beautiful pocket and the Eagles take a 21-0 lead. This play could've easily fallen under pre-snap reads as well because Wentz notices something — likely safety depth — that will give the Eagles an advantage. Based on Jeffery’s movement on the line I’m assuming Wentz changed the play entirely. The next thing is that this play could've likely fallen under progressions as well. I can’t tell for sure, but it looks like the underneath mesh concept receivers were among the first reads, making Smith the final read, but those reads were open. What he may have ultimately been reading was the safeties and how they attacked those underneath routes or whether they dropped into coverage. If they drop, he goes underneath, if not you hit your receiver deep with no help inside for the cornerback.</p>
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<p id="XEfVep">This is a throw that may end up being blamed on Wentz, but I believe it’s actually on <span>Alshon Jeffery</span>, as he never gets his head around to track the ball. He can't throw it to the inside because the safety can drop back and has an opportunity to make a play on the ball. As you can see in the still below, the ball has left Wentz hands and Jeffery has still not looked back for it. I’m not sure if he’s not expecting it to come to him, but if he looks back and tracks the ball, this is likely another touchdown on a deep strike. </p>
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<p id="Q19eNV">Jeffery wins deep, but never gets his head around to see that Wentz has thrown it to the outside where there is nothing but open field. I mentioned this on one of the interceptable throws that Wentz had last week where Jeffery didn't get his head around quickly to make a play on the ball. This is what I was just referring to on the Eagles capitalizing on these opportunities. Doug Pederson’s offense typically trades explosive plays for consistency with high percentage throws, but that has changed some this year. Hitting on these lethalizes and elevates an offense to a new level, now everyone just needs to get on the same page.</p>
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<p id="C5rfDr">Outside of the deep throws, there were few throws that asked Wentz to make anticipation throws hit receivers in stride, but when asked to, he did it well. Above the Cardinals are in man-coverage and the running back and wide receiver (Alshon Jeffery) combine for a slant-flat combo. Wentz gets this ball into a tight window and puts it in spot where Jeffery can keep moving, keeping the opportunity for YAC alive. </p>
<h1 id="xI69CF">Pre-snap reads and post snap progression</h1>
<p id="KAJmIo">Last week I detailed how Wentz’s pre-snap recognition was stellar as he audibled into plays and directed the offense to win against the <a href="https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/">Chargers</a>’ man-coverage looks. That continued again on Sunday, but this time he took it a step further and was getting the Cardinals to tip their blitzes and adjusting his receivers based on those pre-snap reads.</p>
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<p id="yOFnru">The play above was the first instance of that. The Cardinals tip the blitz and Wentz communicates an audible. He’s talking with Ertz to so he may have been instructing him on his route or how he planned to hit Ertz within it. This play actually looks familia...</p>
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<p id="IN0Aji">Same exact route combinations out of a 3x1 personnel package. Carson Wentz is absolutely tearing man coverage apart this year. This also goes back to throwing with anticipation and accuracy. Ertz bullies his way into winning inside and because of the blitz there’s nobody in the middle of the field. This was great recognition and adjustment pre-snap combined with good post snap execution.</p>
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<p id="6jEhbF">Again, Wentz recognizes the man-coverage pre-snap which allows him to process where he wants to go. On these looks, Patrick Peterson is going to press, and knowing this Alshon does an excellent job of dipping his shoulder so that Peterson can’t get a good jab to disrupt the route. Alshon comes up with one of the best releases I’ve seen and secures the third down. The only thing i would like for Alshon to have done is possibly break in a little more to create more of an opportunity for YAC. Wentz did a good job of getting the ball over Peterson, but the chemistry between Wentz and Alshon may not be at a point where either would be willing to slightly adjust. The YAC wouldn't have been much, but I do think Jeffery could've done a better job at shortening the stem of his route and breaking in toward the open field. </p>
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<p id="u2DMOP">This is another RPO that the Eagles use a rub-motion to open Torrey Smith underneath. Pre-snap the Cardinals are again showing man (through all of these plays you can diagnose man-coverage by looking at cornerback’s eyes/head) and with it being an RPO, Wentz is scanning to decide what would be his best matchup if he elects to go pass. This ends up being a good play design to free up Torrey Smith against man, but the pass goes inside, which ended up being the best case. The opportunity for YAC may have been nipped, but so was the opportunity for the defensive back to make a play on a ball out in front. This was a good throw to gain yards and a safer pass to make sure Smith was the only players to come away with it. </p>
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<p id="Qlp7Eg">I didn’t notice a lot of plays where Wentz was forced to go through multiple progressions, as his first read was typically open within the Cardinals coverage, but this one stood out to me. The offensive line protection is fantastic, but Wentz keeps his feet moving and uses his eyes to move a linebacker to the sideline. This opens up a hole and throwing lane in the zone for <span>Nelson Agholor, who uncovers as well. </span>Good offensive line play means nothing if the quarterback isn't utilizing it to make plays and throws. If Wentz can do this against Carolina’s heavy zone defense looks, the Eagles will find success and sustain drives.</p>
<h1 id="1ZfvKb">The not so good</h1>
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<p id="HdN8vG">Still getting dangerous with the ball here. While under pressure, I still believe Wentz had an opportunity to get the ball to Ertz. Obviously you don’t practice these sorts of things — at least I would imagine not — but this pass was high and over Ertz’s head. Passes like these are what led to interceptions for Wentz last years. Again, it’s a hard throw to make when you have a man right in your face before you hit the top of your drop, but you have to be always be smart with the ball.</p>
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<p id="5vfbKM">It seems like Wentz has at least one of these a game and I’m still not exactly sure how they happen. Maybe the ball slipped? It doesn't make much sense, but considering this was a third down, Wentz’s conversion success rate could be even higher had he made this simple throw to an open Ertz.</p>
<h1 id="zP5z5Y">Cumulative </h1>
<p id="5a4Xll">Back-to-back weeks we see Wentz trending through the roof from a progression standpoint. He’s proving to be even more cerebral than ever, making more pre-snap adjustments to counter what defenses are doing. Diagnosing coverages and knowing exactly where to go with the ball is key, but Wentz will need to continue to show he can work effectively even when he misreads pre-snap.</p>
<p id="6kGUMT">As I pointed out, the deep ball is improving and we got a small taste of what can happen when Wentz and the Eagles offense can capitalize on the opportunities that are there in the deep passing game. </p>
<p id="WFb0Ci">If you’ve been reading all along, you'll notice that this week I eliminated the footwork portion of this report. The consistency has been there to the point where, much like wild overthrows, it’s starting to become an anomaly. The truest test of this is when a quarterback faces pressure, and that test may come Thursday night when the Eagles play the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a>. The Eagles will likely be without <span>Lane Johnson</span> and with a good defensive front, the Panthers will be able to collapse pockets on Wentz and force him to pick apart their zone coverages. This will be one of Wentz’s biggest tests of the season and his career and if he can make quick, smart decisive decisions, he should continue to trend upwards.</p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/11/16453800/carson-wentz-report-week-5-philadelphia-eagles-arizona-cardinals-nfl-carolina-panthers-agholorTyler Jackson2017-10-10T10:25:26-04:002017-10-10T10:25:26-04:00Eagles fans pay tribute by singing along to Tom Petty at Lincoln Financial Field (VIDEO)
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<img alt="Arizona Cardinals v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/NdX5COEu8UlEXGK-I49TsIZfbyw=/0x0:4868x3245/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57082337/859100158.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Cool moment from the crowd.</p> <p id="PBl3uU">As you may imagine, Lincoln Financial Field was rockin’ on Sunday afternoon. The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> were blowing out the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a> and life was good. </p>
<p id="EEw5pS">The crowd was super into the game. Standing ovations for the Eagles after each quarter. Battling sections doing the “E-A-G-L-E-S, EAGLES!” chant to see who can do it louder. </p>
<p id="pg7iVx">And then there were was a cool moment when the team played Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down” during a commercial break and all the Eagles fans in the Linc sang along. </p>
<div id="opLb4c">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Eagles playing Tom Petty during commercial break. Fans in the stadium singing along.</p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917082160468721664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p id="tKfCli">Check out the crowd video below courtesy of Bleeding Green Nation reader Jeff DeAngelo (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BleedingGreenNation/videos/10155305199113052/">CLICK HERE if you can’t see it</a>).</p>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BleedingGreenNation/videos/10155305199113052/">Eagles Fans Sing Along To Tom Petty At The Linc</a><p>Eagles fans singing along to Tom Petty -- RIP
(Video credit: Jeff DeAngelo)</p>Posted by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BleedingGreenNation/">Bleeding Green Nation: For Philadelphia Eagles Fans</a> on Monday, October 9, 2017</blockquote></div>
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<p id="EaRGeH">The 66-year-old Petty, one of the best-selling music artists of all-time, suffered cardiac arrest and passed away last Monday on Oct. 2. RIP.</p>
<p id="yrHyh5">Here’s the complete version of the song.</p>
<div id="GbY6E8"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nvlTJrNJ5lA?rel=0&" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no"></iframe></div></div>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/10/16452924/eagles-fans-sing-along-tom-petty-lincoln-financial-field-video-philadelphia-cardinals-game-nfl-ripBrandon Lee Gowton2017-10-09T16:17:55-04:002017-10-09T16:17:55-04:00Eagles-Cardinals PFF Grades: Carson Wentz somehow not among Philadelphia’s top five players
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<img alt="Arizona Cardinals v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/XKvLrYrJfDQ3E4SGUhumLuL7_Jk=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57071895/859106898.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Best and worst of the Eagles-Cardinals game. </p> <p id="EAgVDG">Pro Football Focus releases the top five graded players from each team after every single NFL game. Here’s <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641758&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnews%2Fpro-refocused-philadelphia-eagles-34-arizona-cardinals-7%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bleedinggreennation.com%2F2017%2F10%2F9%2F16449218%2Feagles-cardinals-pff-grades-carson-wentz-philadelphia-top-five-players-arizona-patrick-robinson-nfl" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">what PFF had to say</a> about the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> following their Week 5 win against the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a>.</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="NrHITQ">CB <span>Patrick Robinson</span>, 91.5 overall grade</p>
<p id="TwjJlN">DE <span>Timmy Jernigan</span>, 87.2 overall grade</p>
<p id="vKDBH1">DE <span>Vinny Curry</span>, 85.6 overall grade</p>
<p id="bDTcYc">LB <span>Jordan Hicks</span>, 85.5 overall grade</p>
<p id="LgcXRR">S <span>Malcolm Jenkins</span>, 83.5 overall grade</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="M28Hfy">Hmmmmmm ... I feel like someone is missing from that list! You know, that guy who threw four touchdowns and had a 128.3 passer rating on Sunday?</p>
<h3 id="UuHA4U">CARSON WENTZ</h3>
<p id="ZJF34y">So Wentz didn’t make the top five, but PFF included a blurb on him in their game review.</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="9zMXvz">QB <span>Carson Wentz</span>, 79.0 overall grade</p>
<p id="5fkgBl">A near flawless display from Wentz, with the only blot on his copy book a couple of errant throws on the final drive of the first half that saw him first have an interception dropped, before turning it over on the next play. But in the grand scheme of things, minor gripes, and Wentz (who was ably protected, with pressure on just 10-of-35 drop backs), was able to make a number of big plays that the Cardinals never recovered from. He ended the day with just five completions over 10 yards in the air, but his lofted pass to <span>Nelson Agholor</span> demonstrated just how devastating he is when moving the ball downfield.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="z0AeZJ">PFF’s write-up is less critical than the grade might make it seem. With that said, it’s confusing how the grade ends up being what is when you compare it to other quarterbacks.</p>
<div id="GAwNPp">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">One of these players is not like the others. Unless, of course, you're <a href="https://twitter.com/PFF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PFF</a>. <a href="https://t.co/wCeeTrkWfS">pic.twitter.com/wCeeTrkWfS</a></p>— Patrick (@PatrickMCausey) <a href="https://twitter.com/PatrickMCausey/status/917375951142572032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2017</a>
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<p id="yK65zB">PFF reserves the right to adjust their grades after watching All-22 and going through a more thorough review process. In the meantime, though, Wentz’s grade just doesn’t seem to match up with what we all saw on the field. </p>
<p id="1DN3Fc">I’m not saying PFF is inherently biased against Wentz, because they’ve been generous to him when I thought they should’ve been harsher (<a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/26/16368198/eagles-giants-pff-grades-jason-kelce-philadelphia-top-five-players-center-offensive-line-blocking">Week 3 review</a>), but this latest grade is a head-scratcher. Wentz wasn’t <em>completely</em> flawless against the Cards but <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/9/16446606/eagles-cardinals-final-score-13-things-learned-philadelphia-win-arizona-carson-wentz-doug-pederson">the good so clearly outweighed the bad</a>.</p>
<p id="aNliLt">Wentz now ranks ninth out of 32 quarterbacks graded by PFF this season. <span>Eli Manning</span>, <span>Kirk Cousins</span>, and <span>Dak Prescott</span> are all below him. (<a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/8/16445416/cowboys-lose-eagles-two-game-lead-nfc-east-standings-philadelphia-results-packers-giants-redskins">In more way than one</a>.)</p>
<div id="I8Z1hb">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shot 1 - Wentz's 1st TD came on a staple route of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eagles?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eagles</a> offense, the 'Slot Fade'. Great design and great touch from Wentz in red zone <a href="https://t.co/YY0pGP6lvR">pic.twitter.com/YY0pGP6lvR</a></p>— Fran Duffy (@fduffy3) <a href="https://twitter.com/fduffy3/status/917417567555342336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2017</a>
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<div id="qYSOtN">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shot 6 - Wentz was 11-of-12 on 3rd down for 225 yards and 3 TDs vs ARI. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eagles?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eagles</a> lead NFL with 53.4% on 3rd down. Outstanding improvement. <a href="https://t.co/gQ8InQGntG">pic.twitter.com/gQ8InQGntG</a></p>— Fran Duffy (@fduffy3) <a href="https://twitter.com/fduffy3/status/917436197143764994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2017</a>
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<h3 id="7RNMFE">PATRICK ROBINSON</h3>
<p id="Jyi6ZM">Robinson has now finished in the top five in every week this season except one. He’s been pretty good.</p>
<blockquote><p id="1KXwDZ">Just imagined what this grade would be if Robinson could catch? <span>Carson Palmer</span> kept testing Robinson, and the former Saint and Charger had no problem passing it. He was thrown at nine times, broke up three balls and surrendered just 80 yards (with the majority of those in garbage time). Just imagine what this grade would be if Robinson could catch? Carson Palmer kept testing Robinson, and the former Saint and Charger had no problem passing it. He was thrown at nine times, broke up three balls and surrendered just 80 yards (with the majority of those in garbage time).</p></blockquote>
<p id="j8DtWN">This review didn’t even mention his field goal block, which ensured a 14-point lead for the Eagles heading into halftime. </p>
<p id="B1a6F8">But indeed, Robinson’s performance would’ve been even better if was able to hold on to at least one of the three interceptions he dropped. </p>
<p id="Z9imur">Despite that, Robinson is now PFF’s No. 1 graded cornerback in the entire NFL. That’s pretty crazy. He’s definitely not the best corner in the NFL, obviously, but he’s played pretty well. Kudos to him. </p>
<h3 id="l8zWtv">TIMMY JERNIGAN</h3>
<p id="WO1dFk"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/4/16418752/philadelphia-eagles-best-newcomer-player-tim-jernigan-alshon-jeffery-chris-long-patrick-robinson-nfl">As I wrote about last week</a>, the man with the gold teeth has been having a great season.</p>
<blockquote><p id="ha2o52">No Fletcher Cox, no problem. Jernigan was particularly disruptive in the first half where no body on the Cardinals interior could handle him. He finished with two tackles for a loss and was constantly disruptive.</p></blockquote>
<p id="NFT7rA">Jernigan ranks eighth out of 124 interior defenders this season. He’s been very good in run defense and he’s also able to generate pressure from the interior as well. He might even be more productive when Cox returns. The two of them combine to form a formidable pair of defensive tackles.</p>
<p id="LMG3qd">They gotta find a way to re-sign this guy.</p>
<div id="MUeDoS">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Not to be lost in this great effort by the offense, we have a new Tim Jernigan celebration video. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyEaglesFly?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyEaglesFly</a> <a href="https://t.co/trgPItMXzZ">pic.twitter.com/trgPItMXzZ</a></p>— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eagles/status/917116087212412929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<h3 id="rQtZXF">VINNY CURRY</h3>
<p id="50PS8h">Curry had four solo tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack, and one QB hit in Sunday’s game. He did a good job of regularly getting pressure on Carson Palmer. This is to be expected since he was going up against a second team left tackle and a third team left guard. Still, he took care of business. </p>
<p id="2PFlT3">Curry ranks 22nd out of 104 edge rushers this season. He’s generated 13 pressures in 118 pass rush snaps. More surprisingly, he ranks sixth in <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641758&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fproducts%2Felite&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bleedinggreennation.com%2F2017%2F10%2F9%2F16449218%2Feagles-cardinals-pff-grades-carson-wentz-philadelphia-top-five-players-arizona-patrick-robinson-nfl" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">run stop percentage</a>. That was an area to be considered Curry’s weakness but he’s shown progress there. </p>
<h3 id="dJzPGT">JORDAN HICKS</h3>
<p id="v94ieI"><span>Hicks</span> has quietly had a quiet season — for his standards, at least. He didn’t have a particularly splashy day against the Cardinals (four tackles, three solo) but somehow he ended up in the top five. </p>
<h3 id="2pKKuP">MALCOLM JENKINS</h3>
<p id="zb8BRS">I <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/9/16447188/eagles-vs-cardinals-snap-count-analysis-patrick-robinson-malcolm-jenkins-cornerback-nfl-secondary">wrote about Jenkins’ performance</a> earlier today:</p>
<blockquote><p id="mtHfil"><span>Corey Graham</span> returned from missing two games and played 67% of the Eagles’ defensive snaps. This allowed Jenkins to move down to the slot to man up against Larry Fitzgerald. Jenkins held Fitzgerald to three catches for 31 yards prior to the Arizona’s final drive, when he had two receptions for 20 yards in garbage time.</p></blockquote>
<p id="gEQv98">Jenkins also had a part in Robinson’s field goal block.</p>
<div id="GyE0SL">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Shot 15 - Malcolm Jenkins helps set up Pat Robinson's FGB. Wing can't lay a finger on PRob because of Malcolm's effort. Big hit on KO too! <a href="https://t.co/35Dx2xNBLS">pic.twitter.com/35Dx2xNBLS</a></p>— Fran Duffy (@fduffy3) <a href="https://twitter.com/fduffy3/status/917453823815364610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2017</a>
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<p id="U6llBG">During his press conference last week, Eagles defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was extremely effusive of Jenkins. </p>
<blockquote><p id="igFyzi">I still think that when we get to full strength, that's something that we can benefit from is him playing down because he is good in some of those matchups. With a 3-1 start and everything that's gone on, I think Malcolm's play has sort of flown below the radar. He doesn't have interceptions or sacks and things like that, but he's played consistent football. Early on, talking about some of our positions where we're striving to get consistency, you can scratch Malcolm off of that list. He's played very consistently and he's also had to handle a lot of different situations from, losing his running mate at safety next to him, plugging another guy in, and plugging another guy in. There hasn't -- he's taken a lot on himself to stay productive and I think he's playing at a higher level than I've ever seen him play, and that says an awful lot because he's been a good player in this league for a long time.</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="FVTlOi">HONORABLE MENTION</h3>
<p id="3afpct">Eagles starting right tackle <span>Lane Johnson</span> earned a mention in PFF’s recap.</p>
<blockquote><p id="J2Qptc">Another good performance from Johnson who turned his 33 snaps into the highest grade on the offensive line. The problem of course was the head injury that saw him leave the game and meant <span>Halapoulivaati Vaitai</span> entered the game. If Johnson is to miss time then Vatai is a guy we’ll be seeing more of, so it was heartening for Eagles fans to see his performance go largely unnoticed (in a good way). He ended the day with no hurries allowed and a 71.7 grade.</p></blockquote>
<p id="v96HVa">Johnson ranks third among offensive tackles in pass protection this season. He ranks tied for fourth out of 69 tackles graded by PFF this season. (<span>Jason Peters</span>, meanwhile, is second.)</p>
<p id="oJTBdL">It sucks that the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/9/16448032/lane-johnson-injury-eagles-panthers-game-starting-right-tackle-halapoulivaati-vaitai-big-v-offensive">Eagles will likely be without Johnson</a> against the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> on Thursday night. </p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/9/16449218/eagles-cardinals-pff-grades-carson-wentz-philadelphia-top-five-players-arizona-patrick-robinson-nflBrandon Lee Gowton2017-10-09T11:17:28-04:002017-10-09T11:17:28-04:00Eagles-Cardinals snap count analysis: Patrick Robinson plays well in increased role
<figure>
<img alt="Arizona Cardinals v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/1qlER9DKr3aJMlXcECsJOfg1YVQ=/414x249:1977x1291/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57066387/859088330.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Playing time tracker.</p> <p id="3Tfo0K">Here’s a breakdown of the snap counts from the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a>' 34-7 victory over the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a>.</p>
<h3 id="LxI6nn">OFFENSE</h3>
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<p id="GoM55c"><span>Alshon Jeffery</span> played the most snaps of any wide receiver but only had three receptions for 31 yards. </p>
<p id="ywELSw">The Eagles are still doing their rotation at left guard. Just like last week, this was roughly 60% Stefen Wisniewski and 40% <span>Chance Warmack</span>.</p>
<p id="CSJVgE"><span>Lane Johnson</span> had to leave early due to suffering a head injury. <span>Halapoulivaati Vaitai</span> took over in his place. </p>
<p id="T1SPcd">With Wendell Smallwood out, <span>LeGarrette Blount</span> played the most snaps of any Eagles running back. Corey Clement’s playing time just by 10% from last week. <span>Kenjon Barner</span> played a quarter of the Eagles’ snaps in his first offensive action with the team this year.</p>
<p id="tTuawv"><span>Trey Burton</span> and <span>Marcus Johnson</span> didn’t play much but they made some worthwhile contributions. Burton had two receptions for six yards and a touchdown. <span>Johnson</span> had a six yard reception that moved the chains in the red zone. </p>
<h3 id="9BOlnB">DEFENSE</h3>
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<p id="MAglfg"><span>Malcolm Jenkins</span> and <span>Rodney McLeod</span> were the only two defensive players to play all the snaps. <span>Jalen Mills</span> had to come out for a little bit after getting shaken up early in the game.</p>
<p id="Elsjzh">Patrick Robinson’s playing time increased from 56% in Week 4 to 77% in this game. The Eagles were using him more often on the outside, which meant less playing time for Rasul Douglas. The third-round rookie corner only played 33% of the snaps after playing 100% in Week 4. The Cardinals have a lot of speed at wide receiver and Douglas isn’t the fastest guy so it seems like this was a matchup based decision. Robinson obviously played very well against Arizona. If he could catch, he would’ve had three interceptions on the day. The Eagles rotating their corners isn’t a new thing. They often did this with <span>Leodis McKelvin</span> and Jalen Mills last season.</p>
<p id="Ek3oDL"><span>Corey Graham</span> returned from missing two games and played 67% of the Eagles’ defensive snaps. This allowed Jenkins to move down to the slot to man up against Larry Fitzgerald. Jenkins held Fitzgerald to three catches for 31 yards prior to the Arizona’s final drive, when he had two receptions for 20 yards in garbage time. </p>
<p id="NKZLiN"><span>Justin Hamilton</span> played more snaps than Elijah Qualls. <span>Hamilton</span> was originally on the practice squad while Qualls was on the roster.</p>
<h3 id="5YjKQN">SPECIAL TEAMS</h3>
<p id="tTUljv">K <span>Jake Elliott</span> - 13 - 46%</p>
<p id="cGZh6a">P <span>Donnie Jones</span> - 9 - 32%</p>
<p id="mCUK92">LS <span>Rick Lovato</span> - 9 - 32%</p>
<p id="srUEcr">LB <span>Joe Walker</span> - 6 - 21%</p>
<p id="aL5uRi">Elliott hasn’t missed a kick since nailing that 61-yarder against the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a>. He’ll likely never miss again.</p>
<h3 id="eBOInt">DID NOT PLAY</h3>
<p id="z65hos">The following players were ruled inactive prior to the game: <span>Fletcher Cox</span>, <span>Ronald Darby</span>, Wendell Smallwod, <span>Jaylen Watkins</span>, <span>Destiny Vaeao</span>, <span>Shelton Gibson</span>, and <span>Isaac Seumalo</span>.</p>
<p id="YNTQ1I">The following player(s) were active but did not play: <span>Nick Foles</span>.</p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/9/16447188/eagles-vs-cardinals-snap-count-analysis-patrick-robinson-malcolm-jenkins-cornerback-nfl-secondaryBrandon Lee Gowton2017-10-09T09:18:42-04:002017-10-09T09:18:42-04:00Eagles-Cardinals Final Score: 13 things we learned from Philadelphia’s win over Arizona
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<img alt="NFL: Arizona Cardinals at Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KqUDBLKYOnEQ0uSfu6Hh89pEbTo=/0x0:3416x2277/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57064511/usa_today_10335022.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Big takeaways from the Birds game. </p> <p id="zB1qXn">The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> are now 4-1 in the 2017 NFL regular season after defeating the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a> by a final score of 31 to 7 (<a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/8/16443990/eagles-vs-cardinals-final-score-philadelphia-arizona-34-7-carson-wentz-nelson-agholor-highlights-nfl">recap here</a>). Three wins in a row! Here’s a look at everything we learned from this game.</p>
<h3 id="L78QJZ">1 - The Eagles can play a complete game</h3>
<p id="FiojtM">Winning close games is important and all, but the mark of a truly good team is one who is able to blow out inferior opponents. That’s exactly what the Eagles did on Sunday as they <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/8/16445098/philadelphia-eagles-arizona-cardinals-results-complete-game-offense-defense-special-teams-podcast">dominated the Cardinals in all three phases</a>.</p>
<p id="lClrKG">Doug Pederson’s offense looked great. Philadelphia racked up 34 points and 419 yards. 21 of the Eagles’ points were scored in the first quarter alone. </p>
<p id="vtydY1">On defense, Jim Schwartz’s unit only allowed seven points despite missing two of the team’s defenders: both <span>Fletcher Cox</span> and <span>Ronald Darby</span>. The Eagles would’ve have logged multiple interceptions on Sunday if their cornerbacks had better hands.b</p>
<p id="PkWY75">Dave Fipp’s special teams group is still one of the best in the league. He does such a good job with that unit. The Eagles had a huge punt return (more on that later) and a blocked field goal (more on that later as well). </p>
<p id="XVgcvz">Just an overall great team win. A total statement game from the Eagles. </p>
<h3 id="rcecoh">2 - <span>Carson Wentz</span> is amazing</h3>
<p id="UeGHUZ">11 of 12 (91.7%) for 225 yards (18.8 average), three touchdowns, nine first downs, and a 158.3 passer rating. These were just Wentz’s numbers on <em>third down</em>. Wentz has been unreal in that area. He’s just so clutch in those moments. He sees the field so well and makes the right call. Or, if there’s nothing there, he can always just take off running and move the chains with his legs. </p>
<p id="N651G6">Wentz’s complete game stats: 21/30 (70%), 304 yards (10.1 average), 4 TD, 1 INT, 128.3 passer rating. He also rushed for 11 yards. </p>
<p id="9xsK1f">Wentz is clearly ahead of where he was at this time last year. He’s making that Year 1 to Year 2 leap that most NFL players make in their career. There’s progression and growth. His accuracy looks improved. He’s racking up all the Air Yards. </p>
<p id="DZ8NDd">Wentz’s success is clearly a great thing for the Eagles’ outlook. It’s terrible news for all his <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/20/16338602/eagles-carson-wentz-quarterback-disconnect-philadelphia-nfl-draft-2017-film-room-study-franchise">unreasonable critics and doubters out there</a>. </p>
<p id="rjzhaL">In fairness, Wentz was not perfect on Sunday. The interception he threw was really bad. Can’t turn the ball over in that situation. Even if the Eagles have to kick a field goal, they go up three possessions (17 points) and then get the ball back after the half. It wasn’t the appropriate time to force a tight throw. Wentz also terribly missed a wide open Ertz on third down in the red zone. Completely threw behind him and in the dirt. </p>
<p id="dUSUvL">In a way, there’s comfort to be had in these mistakes. Because for as good as Wentz played, there’s still room for him to be <em>even better</em>. And given his incredible work ethic and will to win, there’s confidence he’ll correct the things that went wrong moving forward. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Carson Wentz’s 4 passing TDs were the most by an Eagles QB in a single game since Nick Foles’ 7 TD game against Raiders.</p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917163268682207232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wentz had the most third-down passing yards and yards per attempt by an Eagle since at least 1991.</p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917163764067241984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Carson Wentz is the only NFL QB to record multiple games with a perfect passer rating on third down this season. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eagles?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eagles</a></p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917164068884176896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Carson Wentz '17 (4-1)<br><br>3rd Down: 37/52 (71.2%) 6 TDs, 1 INT, 137.8 QB rating<br><br>Red Zone: 14/23 7 TDs, 0 INTs, 111.6 QB Rating<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyEaglesFly?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyEaglesFly</a></p>— Ben Fennell (@BenFennell_NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenFennell_NFL/status/917339058686300160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2017</a>
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<h3 id="rIhdid">3 - It’s time to really give Doug Pederson some credit</h3>
<p id="KS579o">4th-and-8? No, 4 and 1. That’s the Eagles’ record right now and it’s time to give credit to the head coach.</p>
<p id="q8PNNM">The Eagles have been very well-prepared heading into games this season. Pederson has had his guys ready to go from the jump. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Eagles OUTSCORING teams 34-3 in the 1st Quarter this season! (14-0 Today vs Cardinals)<br><br> 31 point DIFFERENCE!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/carsonwentz?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#carsonwentz</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlyEaglesFly?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FlyEaglesFly</a> <a href="https://t.co/2Z60knfbuW">pic.twitter.com/2Z60knfbuW</a></p>— Jeff Skversky 6abc (@JeffSkversky) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeffSkversky/status/917080297342152704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p id="0cWH3n">If you’re still not sold, look at these numbers:</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Eagles are tied with Falcons and Patriots for the most 20+ point performances (18) in the NFL since the start of the 2016 season.</p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917162847465074688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Eagles have scored 20+ points in 9 consecutive games, which is the longest active streak in the NFL.</p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917163024514994176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p id="MLp7cC">In addition to this consistency, players seem to enjoy playing for Doug. They’re <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/8/16444864/eagles-touchdown-celebration-torrey-smith-carson-wentz-philadelphia-highlights-video-watch-funny-lol">having fun expressing themselves in their touchdown celebrations</a>, which is something Pederson actually encouraged the guys to practice during training camp. </p>
<p id="OZASiv">Doug’s done a good job. It’s still relatively early in the season, but the man at least deserves to be in the Coach of the Year conversation. </p>
<h3 id="UKnKVh">4 - <span>Nelson Agholor</span> looks like a new player</h3>
<p id="zKpbsH">I always believed in you, Nelson. And now you’re proving me right. </p>
<p id="XnWfg1">OK, just kidding, I didn’t believe in him at all. But there was great reason not to. He was literally one of the worst wide receivers in the NFL over the past two seasons. And now <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/8/16444938/nelson-agholor-touchdown-eagles-cardinals-game-most-disrespectful-plays-highlights-video-watch-nfl">Agholor is a guy who can do THIS</a>:</p>
<div id="GNIlhw">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wentz to Agholor 72 YARDS - Touchdown. 31-7 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eagles?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eagles</a> <br> <a href="https://t.co/gw0zWIVYph">https://t.co/gw0zWIVYph</a></p>— BGN Radio (@BGN_Radio) <a href="https://twitter.com/BGN_Radio/status/917107508631691264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p id="hqz3gy">Incredible.</p>
<p id="lGflr7">Through five games, Agholor now has 16 receptions for 266 yards (16.6 average) and three touchdowns. He’s clearly on pace for his best season yet. </p>
<p id="dir9Mm">The Eagles’ 2015 first-round pick has been a great option for Wentz in the slot. He’s not the volume target that <span>Jordan Matthews</span> is, but he’s much more explosive. The Eagles really aren’t missing JMatt at all.</p>
<h3 id="9yJPJg">5 - <span>Patrick Robinson</span> has been such a pleasant surprise</h3>
<p id="JHSADw">Patrick Robinson looked awful in Eagles training camp. It wasn’t just me who thought this, either. <a href="http://www.phillyvoice.com/eagles-player-stock-stock-down-media-poll/">A number of media types</a> thought he was having the worst camp of any player. Even Robinson admitted he was really struggling. </p>
<p id="7keSEv">But he’s really rebounded in a big way. And it’s not just because he’s playing in the position he’s best suited for: the nickel cornerback role. On Sunday against the Cardinals, the Eagles used Robinson on the outside a good amount. He was in position to make multiple interceptions. Unfortunately, he dropped them, but still ... he was pretty great in coverage.</p>
<p id="SM0tDB">Now’s a good time to remind you the Eagles signed him for the mere cost of $1 million. Tremendous bargain signing. </p>
<h3 id="waiHzX">6 - <span>Larry Fitzgerald</span> isn’t an Eagles Killer anymore</h3>
<p id="z6gNJY">Well, at least he wasn’t on Sunday. Fitz only had six receptions for 51 yards and zero touchdowns. Two catches and 20 yards came on the final drive of the game, which was pure garbage time production. </p>
<p id="KvFAb0">In his last two games against the Eagles, Fitzgerald only has nine receptions for 94 yards. Take out the garbage time numbers and it’s seven for 74. The 34-year-old is not the Eagles Killer he once was. I declare his reign over. </p>
<h3 id="jmpSW3">7 - <span>Kenjon Barner</span> is the unsung hero of this game</h3>
<p id="bUO7vG">Back when the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/26/16371200/kenjon-barner-eagles-philadelphia-contract-darren-sproles-injury-nfl-roster-move-byron-marshall-rb">Eagles re-signed Barner</a>, I was optimistic about his chances of contributing to the team’s return game.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Barner helps Eagles return game<br><br>2016 KR: 9 for 277, 30.8 avg<br><br>2016 preseason KR: 3 for 96, 32.0 <br><br>2015 preseason PR: 13 for 223, 17.2, 2 TD</p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/913030874836463616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2017</a>
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<p id="LNSb5S">Barner rewarded my faith with three punt returns on Sunday for a total of 110 yards. His longest of the day went for 76. Barner might not be some exceptional talent but he has familiarity with Fipp’s scheme and <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2015/8/16/9162861/kenjon-barner-darren-sproles-punt-return-touchdown-eagles-preseason-colts">he seems to have picked up a thing or two</a> from his mentor, <span>Darren Sproles</span>.</p>
<p id="UEhHfE">But it wasn’t like Barner only contributed on his returns. He also had five carries for 23 yards (4.6 average) on the ground. And he drew a 16-yard pass interference penalty in the fourth quarter.</p>
<p id="PWet3h">The Eagles are fortunate that the <a href="https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/">Chargers</a> cut Barner this summer. He’s a nice role-player to have. </p>
<h3 id="RPN8af">8 - Another great game for the defensive line</h3>
<p id="iVmhv1">The Eagles only had two sacks but they were pressuring <span>Carson Palmer</span> all game long. If the cornerbacks could catch, I’d be saying the line pressured Palmer into throwing multiple picks. </p>
<p id="h6vW6k"><span>Brandon Graham</span> and <span>Vinny Curry</span> each had one sack and one quarterback hit. Tim Jernigan, <span>Chris Long</span>, <span>Beau Allen</span>, <span>Derek Barnett</span>, and <span>Elijah Qualls</span> also all had one quarterback hit. </p>
<p id="TEPZVd">When it came to run defense, Graham was a monster. He had three tackles for loss. Curry and Jernigan also logged one each. </p>
<p id="FMeiGF">The Eagles held Arizona to 31 yards on the ground for a 2.2 average. If you take out J.J. Nelson’s 14-yard jet sweep, Cardinals running backs combined for a mere 17 yards on 13 carries (1.3 average). </p>
<h3 id="PI9qRQ">9 - The secondary stepped up</h3>
<p id="CaqLuc">I talked about Robinson’s performance earlier. He could’ve had like three interceptions if he had better hands. <span>Jalen Mills</span> also dropped a potential pick, though in fairness <span>John Brown</span> did a great job of playing defense and breaking it up. </p>
<p id="Ydleda">I thought <span>Malcolm Jenkins</span> quietly played a very good game. He deserves credit for holding Fitzgerald to a meager performance. </p>
<p id="9ayQXu">No one will be mistaking the Eagles’ secondary for the best in the league anytime soon, but they played pretty well. Now imagine when <span>Ronald Darby</span> returns. </p>
<h3 id="Rqd9YC">10 - The <span>Lane Johnson</span> injury looms large</h3>
<p id="Ov1R5k">Johnson suffered a head injury during the Eagles-Cardinals game and did not return to the game. Jeff McLane reports the injury is indeed a concussion. If that’s true, Johnson will have to pass through the NFL’s mandatory concussion protocol before he can suit up. He might not be ready in time for the Eagles’ Thursday night game against the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Carolina Panthers</a>. Even if he thinks he’s ready to play, it doesn’t matter. It’s not his call. He has to be cleared by an independent doctor. </p>
<p id="Hg7q8V">The good news is that <span>Halapoulivaati Vaitai</span> seemed to play well in his absence. The bad news is he’s no Lane Johnson. </p>
<p id="lsSYYz">Stay tuned for more updates on Johnson’s situation as Pederson addresses reporters on Monday.</p>
<h3 id="gShaFN">11 - The offensive line is still mashing people</h3>
<p id="9FRf5y">You have to love the way this Eagles offensive line is performing. Wentz was only sacked once. According to PFF, the Eagles have the NFL’s best pass protection unit since <span>Isaac Seumalo</span> was benched. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Eagles O-line:<br>Pass Block Efficiency<br><br>Weeks 1-2: 79.0<br>NFL rank: 16<br><br>Weeks 3-5: 90.6<br>NFL rank: 1</p>— PFF PHI Eagles (@PFF_Philly) <a href="https://twitter.com/PFF_Philly/status/917232770090455040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2017</a>
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<p id="TWatQt">The run game has obviously been awesome as well. Against a tough Cardinals run defense, Philly running backs gained 114 yards on 26 carries (4.4 average). </p>
<p id="VY68WX">The only complaint I have about this offensive line is the dumb left guard rotation. It’s just so unnecessary. The Eagles’ offense was playing well on Sunday. They had three straight scoring drives with <span>Stefen Wisniewski</span> starting ... and then <span>Chance Warmack</span> took over and drives suddenly started to stall. The rotation is so forced and unnecessary. </p>
<p id="o7EQ4T">A holding penalty on Warmack late in the game wiped out a rushing touchdown. The game was virtually over, but come on. Just get Chance out of there.</p>
<h3 id="bY8mlP">12 - <span>LeGarrette Blount</span> has been surprisingly good</h3>
<p id="kUeSIl">Blount finished with 74 yards on 14 carries against the Cardinals. His longest run of the day was for 37. The offensive line deserves a ton of credit for opening a huge hole for him, but Blount is able to generate his own yards once he’s in the open field because people can’t tackle him very easily. It’s just really fun to watch defenders bounce off of him and he continues to keep his legs moving and pick up extra yards. It must be really demoralizing for a defense to have to go up against a player like that. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Crazy but true: LeSean McCoy hasn't scored this season and has fewer rushing yards (216) than Blount (249).</p>— Patrickortreat Wall (@ByPatrickWall) <a href="https://twitter.com/ByPatrickWall/status/917204431640305665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2017</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">LeGarrette Blount has 277 yards on 42 carries the past three weeks (6.60 YPC), and leads all RBs in PFF Elusive Rating.</p>— Scott Barrett (@ScottBarrettDFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottBarrettDFB/status/917119899931217927?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<h3 id="ObIE2T">13 - The Eagles gained a buffer in the NFC East</h3>
<p id="b4TzjT"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/8/16445416/cowboys-lose-eagles-two-game-lead-nfc-east-standings-philadelphia-results-packers-giants-redskins">Sunday was a great day to be an Eagles fan</a>. </p>
<p id="j0uI31">The Eagles blew out the Cardinals, the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Cowboys</a> lost to the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a>, and the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> are now 0-5. </p>
<p id="oNzYU0">The Eagles now have two more wins than the second place team, the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a>, in the NFC East. </p>
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<p id="fTKGuu">1 - Eagles | Overall: 4-1 | Conference: 3-0 | Division: 2-0</p>
<p id="o2cFAX">2 - Washington | Overall: 2-2 | Conference: 1-1 | Division: 0-1</p>
<p id="9GC0bB">3 - Cowboys | Overall: 2-3 | Conference: 1-2 | Division: 1-0 </p>
<p id="I3PfA8">4 - Giants | Overall: 0-5 | Conference: 0-4 | Division: 0-2 </p>
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<p id="k13UOb">That’s a nice little buffer to have, especially with the Eagles having a tough road game against the 4-1 Carolina Panthers coming up on Thursday night.</p>
<p id="Ss0UR0">Right now, it’s hard not to feel pretty good about this Eagles team. They’re 4-1 and they haven’t even hit their ceiling yet. Wentz is still developing. Cox and Darby will be returning from injury at some point. <span>Sidney Jones</span> might be <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/6/16438530/eagles-injury-updates-ronald-darby-sidney-jones-philadelphia-cornerback-nfl-draft-pick-defense-news">on the way as well</a>. </p>
<p id="FwdtNP">Beating the Panthers would be incredible. That’d put the Eagles at 5-1 with 10 days to prepare for a Josh Norman-less Washington team in Week 7. Winning in Carolina won’t be easy, but you can’t say the Eagles don’t have a shot. The Birds are a good football team.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Eagles are 4-1 and their one loss was against the only undefeated team in the NFL: Chiefs. It was KC’s closest game in terms of score.</p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917335206864056321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2017</a>
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https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/9/16446606/eagles-cardinals-final-score-13-things-learned-philadelphia-win-arizona-carson-wentz-doug-pedersonBrandon Lee Gowton2017-10-08T20:01:15-04:002017-10-08T20:01:15-04:00COWBOYS LOSE and Eagles secure two-game lead in the NFC East standings
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<img alt="Arizona Cardinals v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GrYUxG7qFmAvOTNRCBswIA1ihcA=/0x0:2693x1795/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57058985/859099808.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Beautiful.</p> <p id="tU1hTG">Last week was a great football week. <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/2/16407260/redskins-chiefs-final-score-eagles-cowboys-giants-philadelphia-dallas-washington-new-york-nfc-east">Every team in the NFC East lost</a> ... except the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a>. </p>
<p id="JRjSMc">This week was also a great football week. Of the three NFC East teams that played (<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> had a bye) on Sunday, only the Eagles won. Let’s take an updated look at the NFC East standings, shall we?</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">NFC EAST STANDINGS AFTER WEEK 5<br><br>1) Eagles: 4-1<br>2) Washington: 2-2<br>3) Cowboys: 2-3<br>4) Giants: 0-5</p>— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917171050097598464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2017</a>
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<p id="E45f7Q">In addition to these numbers, here’s a look at how each team stacks up in terms of conference and division games</p>
<p id="fTKGuu">1 - Eagles | Overall: 4-1 | Conference: 3-0 | Division: 2-0</p>
<p id="o2cFAX">2 - Washington | Overall: 2-2 | Conference: 1-1 | Division: 0-1</p>
<p id="9GC0bB">3 - <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Cowboys</a> | Overall: 2-3 | Conference: 1-2 | Division: 1-0 </p>
<p id="iI1JH0">4 - <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> | Overall: 0-5 | Conference: 0-4 | Division: 0-2 </p>
<p id="rphsqS">A truly great sight to see.</p>
<p id="fomnCp">The Eagles are 3-1 are whooping the <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Cardinals</a>. Their playoff <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917125329386377218">odds jumped to nearly 80%</a> with the win.</p>
<p id="XwxMqw">The Cowboys lost on a last minute drive by <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> ... just like they did in the playoffs. <a href="https://twitter.com/BrandonGowton/status/917171674704957442">Dallas’ playoff odds dropped to 20%</a> with their loss. </p>
<p id="lqpwbq">The Giants are 0-5 and <span>Odell Beckham Jr.</span> might be done for the season. New York was already done, but now they’re super done. </p>
<p id="RhPrH8">Washington had a bye but now the Eagles have two more wins than they do and Philly still owns the head-to-head tiebreaker.</p>
<p id="pBWo2Q">Everything’s been coming up Eagles so far this season. Let’s keep the good times rolling.</p>
<p id="SzhNMu"></p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/8/16445416/cowboys-lose-eagles-two-game-lead-nfc-east-standings-philadelphia-results-packers-giants-redskinsBrandon Lee Gowton