The Eagles left a day early to acclimate to the weather and will look to move to 2-0, with a Monday night matchup against Chicago looming. Tennessee may have produced only 195 yards in its season-opening loss, but three players can change Sunday’s game. Philadelphia must identify each threat whenever its unit takes the field.
Jeffery Simmons
Simmons is Tennessee’s most dangerous defensive player and the central figure in its upset hopes. He can align over the center, attack either guard, or move outside in passing situations. That versatility matters against an Eagles line replacing Landon Dickerson at left guard. Cam Jurgens must identify Simmons’ location and ensure Philadelphia’s protection accounts for him. Leaving a new guard isolated against Simmons on third
down would invite trouble.
Calvin Ridley
Ridley was not targeted in Week 1 despite running routes on most of Cam Ward’s dropbacks. Tennessee is unlikely to repeat that mistake.
Ridley can align outside or move into the slot, where his route running could create difficult assignments for Cooper DeJean or Michael Carter II. Quinyon Mitchell and Riq Woolen must also prepare for vertical routes designed to exploit Ward’s arm strength.
The Eagles cannot let Ridley start his season with an explosive play.
Chimere Dike
Dike must be located before every punt and kickoff.
The second-year returner earned first-team All-Pro honors as a rookie and can change a game without taking an offensive snap. Philadelphia’s coverage players allowed Washington additional yardage after failing to run through contact.
Braden Mann’s placement, kickoff strategy, and open-field tackling will all matter.
Simmons can wreck the offensive plan, Ridley can punish a coverage mistake, and Dike can change field position instantly. Philadelphia’s preparation must extend across all three phases.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Three Titans players Philadelphia must locate before every snap
