About a fourth of the way into the regular season, there are a few matchups that stand out on the Eagles schedule. As it stands, the Eagles are 2-2 and tied for second in the division. Even though it’s early, the team has their work cut out for them on the road ahead. Two losses to potential playoff contenders in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons will hurt. However, there are three crucial matchups where if the Eagles win, they’ll be in a good spot for the postseason.
Non-Divisional Matchups on the Eagles Schedule
Week 6: Vs. Cleveland Browns
Obviously, the next game will always be crucial for any team in the NFL. However, the next game on the Eagles schedule will especially be important for them. Not just because they would go down to 2-3 with a loss, but because of the current attitude around the team. Nick Sirianni is already on the hot seat, and another loss against a struggling Browns team will only intensify the criticism.
Moreover, if the Eagles get back the likes of Lane Johnson, A.J. Brown, and Devonta Smith, everyone will expect a great performance against the Cleveland Browns. This will be a chance for the Eagles team to regain some confidence and restore faith in the team. If they lose, they run the risk of snowballing into a pitiful season with the talent they have on the team.
Week 8: @ Cincinnati Bengals
Another AFC North opponent, the Eagles will travel to face the Cincinnati Bengals at Week 8. The Bengals haven’t had a great start to the season either, currently sitting at 1-3. This game will be important for the Eagles because it’s a game that they should win. Despite the Bengals immense offensive talent in Joe Burrow and the receivers, they have one key weakness to exploit. They cannot defend the run.
This could be a game where the Eagles demonstrate the ability to dominate when and where they should. If the Bengals completely sell out to stop the run, that should leave plenty of opportunity for Jalen Hurts and company to light them up in the passing game. This is an important game because it will show that the Eagles can play to their strengths in games and win games they’re supposed to, regardless of how talented the other team is.
Most Important Divisional Matchup
Week 10: @ Dallas Cowboys
A game against the Dallas Cowboys is always a huge game on the Eagles schedule. These two teams have usually been fighting it out over the past few years for the NFC East title. However, this year has been a little different for both teams. Both teams have been struggling at times and have not inspired much confidence in their fans. Historically, these teams tend to split their matchups with a win each, but the Cowboys have the same problem as the Bengals, which bodes well for the Eagles.
If the Eagles can take the win in Dallas, it will put them in a good position to sweep the series between them. Not only is it their rival and a crucial divisional game, but most importantly it’s a game where they have the advantage. Like the Bengals game, the Eagles need to win these types of games to restore some confidence and faith in their football team. On top of that, it will be an important game in the NFC playoff race and vital to catch the current number one team in the NFC East the Washington Commanders.
Main Image: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
