The Philadelphia Eagles’ offense is built around their run game, led by Saquon Barkley, but they’ll face a stiff challenge against the Baltimore Ravens’ top-ranked defensive front this Sunday. The Ravens, who have allowed just 4.5 yards per carry and second-most total rushing yards, will deploy an odd-front defense led by Pro Bowler Nnamdi Madubuike and All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith.
“We’re bracing for a tough test,” said Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson. “They’re physical up front, sound, and have big bodies. They do a great job of two-gapping, and their linebackers feed off them.”
Eagles coach Nick Sirianni acknowledged the challenge but believes his team’s ability to execute will be key. “It all goes down to execution,” he said. “We’ve had success in the past sticking to the run, even against the league’s best rushing defenses. It’s about winning up front and letting our running back do special things with the ball.”
Barkley’s ability to create explosive plays is crucial for the Eagles’ offense, but the Ravens’ emphasis on stopping the run may come at the expense of their passing defense, which ranks last in total passing yards allowed.
The Eagles will need to stay consistent with their combo blocks and control the line of scrimmage if they hope to stick to their formula against the talented Ravens front. The game is expected to be a competitive one, but the Eagles are confident in their ability to execute and come out on top.
Source: https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/eagles-ravens-saquon-barkley-defense-20241129.html