The Philadelphia Eagles entered the season expecting their defensive front to be one of the team's biggest strengths.
Seven games into the season, that expectation has become one of Philadelphia's biggest disappointments. The Eagles allowed 416 total yards and 38 points Monday night in a loss to Dallas, with Vic Fangio's defense failing to record a sack, quarterback hit or tackle for loss.
It was the most points Philadelphia has allowed in a game since Fangio became defensive coordinator. Dallas dominated at the line of scrimmage, rushing for 204 yards after entering the matchup averaging just 76 rushing yards per game through its first six contests.
Javonte Williams accounted for 155 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries, repeatedly finding running
lanes against Philadelphia's defensive front. The Eagles also struggled to contain Dak Prescott, who threw three touchdown passes despite completing only 15 attempts.
CeeDee Lamb finished with two touchdown receptions, including a 16-yard score against Riq Woolen that helped Dallas reclaim the lead in the third quarter. Philadelphia attempted different defensive looks, but the Cowboys continued to move the football. Dallas scored on six of its first seven possessions, putting pressure on an Eagles offense already playing without several starters.
The issues weren't limited to the secondary. Philadelphia's defensive front failed to control gaps, set a consistent edge or generate pressure without blitzing. The absence of Nolan Smith was noticeable, particularly against the run, while the interior defensive line struggled to match Dallas' physicality.
Zack Baun led Philadelphia with nine tackles, but the defense collectively produced few negative plays. The Eagles have now allowed at least 399 yards in four consecutive games, a troubling development for a roster built around winning at the line of scrimmage. Fangio's unit must improve quickly, particularly with division matchups against Washington and the New York Giants looming.
Philadelphia's offense has endured quarterback injuries, an unsettled offensive line and an increasingly depleted backfield. The defense, however, was expected to provide stability.
Instead, it has become one of the biggest reasons the Eagles are 2-5 and searching for answers.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles defense: No sacks, no hits, no answers in Monday night loss
