The Philadelphia Eagles finally established their running game Monday night. Their next challenge is figuring out how to build the rest of the offense around it. Saquon Barkley rushed for 73 yards during the first half of Philadelphia’s 27-7 loss to the Chicago Bears, consistently finding room behind outside-zone and split-zone concepts. That production should have created opportunities for Jalen Hurts through play-action, but the Eagles rarely capitalized.
Offensive coordinator Sean Mannion accepted responsibility for that disconnect while evaluating the offense ahead of its Week 4 matchup with the Los Angeles Rams.
“Ultimately, I need to build the best plan possible to find that marriage,” Mannion said. “That’s on me to put us in the best position
possible.”
Mannion said the Eagles called a keeper early in the game but encountered an unfavorable defensive look. He also acknowledged that Philadelphia must execute its play-action protections more cleanly.
The bigger issue was letting a productive formula disappear. Barkley received only four second-half carries, gaining nine yards, as the Bears expanded their lead and forced Philadelphia into more obvious passing situations. The Eagles finished with only seven points despite averaging 5.5 yards on Barkley’s 15 rushing attempts.
Mannion believes that early rushing success can produce explosive throws if Philadelphia sharpens its execution and calls complementary plays at the proper moments. Against a Rams defense featuring Aaron Donald and Kobie Turner, staying balanced could also keep Los Angeles from attacking Hurts without worrying about the run.
The Eagles obviously don't need to reinvent their offense. They need to recognize what is working, remain committed to it, and use that success to create opportunities elsewhere. Mannion understands that process begins with the plan he gives his players.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Sean Mannion takes blame as Eagles have failed to maximize potent run game
