Expect Lots of SJ39

For those who can’t wait to see the new Josh McDaniels downfield passing attack, you might have to wait another week.  I think McD will dial up a lot of runs and short to intermediate passing plays this Sunday and there are a number of reasons why:

1)  In case  you were hiding under a rock the last month and a half, the Eagles picked up two high profile shotdown corners in Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, to go along with Asante Samuel, who’s not too shabby himself.

2) The Eagles Linebacking group is light and speedy but striking terror into the hearts of opposing ball carriers is not their forte.  In the second preseason game against Pittsburgh, the Steelers ran the ball at will all over the Eagles first team D.  In addition, with Nate Allen out with a knee injury, their starting SS is Jarrad Page, who hasn’t been a regular starter since 2008.

3) Their pass rush.  Besides their pro bowlers at CB, this is where the D expects to shine.  Jason Babin is coming off of a 12.5 sack performance in Tennessee and followed his D-Line coach here.  Cullen Jenkins is in the middle at DT and was one of the standout performers in preseason.  That being the case, even if the Rams do decide to take some shots, Bradford may find himself needing to get the ball out quicker to either SJ or Amendola/Kendricks/Salas(who knows?) for the shorter intermediate routes.

4) Ball control.  Keep the ball out of Michael Vick’s hands.

That’s my thoughts, and as always fire away with your own comments.  Also, if you’re so inclined feel free to follow me on twitter at @mattschaefer16.  OK, enough talk, let’s get to it!  How long til kickoff??