There is only one word to describe the Eagles run defense this year: Dominant.
During the pre-season there were serious questions surrounding the Eagles run defense. The secondary, it seemed, was the strength of the unit given the addition of Asante Samuel to a much-heralded defensive backfield. Opposing offenses would surely choose to attack on the ground rather than challenge three pro-bowl caliber cornerbacks and a Hall of Fame bound safety, right? Well, after the results from the first 3 games it is clear that if teams want to win against the Eagles, they may have no choice but to go to the air.
For the Rams, Cowboys, and Steelers, the ground game brought pathetic results. The Rams came to Philly boasting one of the best running backs in the league in Stephen Jackson. The former Oregon State standout was probably not boasting about much when he left with a mere 40 yards on 14 carries.
On Sunday night we watched Marion Barber slap Green Bay’s overrated defense with 142 yards on 28 carries. As if that weren’t enough, rookie Felix Jones gave them the back of the hand with 76 more yards including a 60-yard touchdown.
That same Cowboys rushing tandem was pedestrian at best against the Eagles. Marion Barber averaged about 3.3 yards per carry and took quite a pounding. When the Boys were trying to protect a lead in the fourth quarter, Barber failed to get a first down, allowing the Eagles another chance to win. Felix Jones? Did he even line up at running back in that game?
We do know that Willie Parker lined up against the Eagles this past Sunday. We also know that he’d probably be better of had he not. Parker, the lynch pin of the vaunted Pittsburgh running game, left the Linc with a paltry 20 yards on 13 carries and a sprained knee to boot.
So after 3 games the Eagles opponents, all with highly touted running attacks, averaged 2.4 yards per carry and 45.7 yards per game, making the Eagles run defense the best in the NFL.
If the secondary lives up to its billing, teams may have few options when facing the Eagles defense. Don't look now, but Philly may have a championship-caliber defense in its midst.
