The Philadelphia Eagles survived several offensive inconsistencies during their 24-22 victory over Washington. A cleaner opening drive would help them avoid another afternoon spent overcoming negative plays. Tennessee’s defense presents an immediate challenge because Jeffery Simmons can disrupt the game from multiple alignments. Philadelphia will also have a new starter at left guard after placing Landon Dickerson on injured reserve.
Here are three things the Eagles must establish on their opening possession.
Give Saquon Barkley an early opportunity.
Tennessee allowed 152 rushing yards against the Jets. Philadelphia should test that weakness before asking its reshuffled protection to handle obvious passing situations. Barkley rushed for 83 yards in Week 1, including a 42-yard gain. Outside
zone may remain part of the plan, but Sean Mannion can also use duo, inside zone and downhill concepts to prevent Simmons from attacking a predictable path.
Get the new left guard settled.
Whether Philadelphia starts Fred Johnson, Drew Kendall or Willie Lampkin, Mannion should avoid placing that player in a series of isolated passing situations immediately. Quick throws, play-action and movement can help Jalen Hurts avoid standing behind a collapsing interior. Cam Jurgens and Jordan Mailata can also assist depending on Simmons’ alignment.
Stay ahead of the chains.
Missed assignments, penalties, and negative runs repeatedly left Philadelphia in long-yardage situations against Washington. The Eagles converted third-and-17 and third-and-18, but those plays are not a sustainable offensive formula. An efficient opening possession should feature manageable down-and-distance situations, touches for DeVonta Smith and Dallas Goedert, and at least one opportunity to challenge Tennessee’s secondary.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: What Eagles must establish on their opening drive vs. the Titans
