Eagles vs Chiefs Picks
A Super Bowl rematch between the two top teams in either conference will surely be the biggest draw of the week. In recent weeks, it’s hard to argue against the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles being the clear favorites out of their conference. This game is not only a Super Bowl rematch, but the game that will decide the likely Super Bowl favorite. The Chiefs have struggled more than usual on offense this year, while the Eagles have struggled on defense at times. They’re different teams than last year, which should make this matchup even more intriguing. The biggest question will be whether the Chiefs defense can limit the Eagles offense in this game as opposed to the other way around.
Chiefs Creative Defense Stifles Opponents
The Chiefs defense has taken another step this year, becoming a truly dominant unit. They currently rank second in points allowed, and top five in total yards and passing yards a game allowed. Chris Jones is undoubtedly one of the best players in the league, but the Chiefs secondary and linebackers have been excellent as well in a variety of coverages. A lot of credit needs to go to Chiefs defensive coordinator, Steve Spagnuolo, who consistently comes with creative game plans and different looks to fluster offenses. He brings a lot of different looks and disguises that make the quarterback unsure, and with the coverage players and Chris Jones, that is a bad combination.
Even scarier, Chris Jones believes that the Chiefs defense can get even better. The biggest key for the Eagles will be being able to run the ball enough to pick up a few crucial first downs and keep the Chiefs defense on the field. In the early portions of the game, the Eagles will likely need time to make some adjustments offensively based on the looks the Chiefs give them. So, being able to establish the run game will help the Eagles control the ball and ease into the game. If they cannot get the run going early, they’re going to have to rely on their defense to shut down the Chiefs offense, who have plenty of time to prepare.
Eagles Offense Can Be Unstoppable on Offense
The Eagles in their last game had some outstanding displays of offense, with some crucial mistakes and lapses at times. It’s clear through this season when the Eagles offense is clicking, they can either beat teams through the air or on the ground. Even if they’re not playing their best, the sheer amount of talent and playmakers they have can still outclass opponents. Looking at it on paper, the Eagles offensive line should have the advantage as well as the Eagles receivers. However, games are not played on paper. If the Eagles make a few critical mistakes or turnovers, they very well could be beaten and possibly convincingly. Yet, Jalen Hurts’ health is looking better this week, and the Eagles will surely be fired up in this game.
The key for the Eagles here will not be solely taking care of the ball, but they must be clinical when chances for big plays arrive. Spagnuolo’s creative defenses come with a plethora of blitzes and coverages. But with creativity, there will be opportunities for big plays down the field, whether it be Devonta Smith or A.J. Brown. The Chiefs defense has thrived in big part because no other team has been able to be clinical enough when the defense takes those risks. As talented as the Chiefs defense is, they will surely have to take a few risks and that’s when the Eagles need to strike.
Eagles vs. Chiefs Picks: Bottom Line
Eagles Win 31-27
The game of the week should live up to the hype and be intriguing throughout. The Eagles offense has only put one complete game together this year against the Miami Dolphins. Even though they are still towards the top of every offensive statistic, expect the Eagles to play up to their competition and put on one of their best performances of the season. Everyone knows Andy Reid’s resume after a bye week, so the Eagles defense will have their work cut out for him. However, the Eagles defensive line may only need to make a few plays in this game to give the Eagles the edge.
Main Photo Credit: Syndication: Arizona Republic
