Eagles Must Dominate The Falcons Upfront

Published: Sept. 8, 2021, 2 p.m.

First of all, the Eagles defensive line must get quick pressure on Matt Ryan.  He's got experience, a good arm and plenty of weapons.  If the Birds don't get to him and make him move off his spot, they're probably going to start the season with a loss.

Fletcher Cox will be double-teamed, so Javon Hargrave must show up.  He's the key to this game.  If he doesn't dominate I don't think the Birds will win. 

The offense should be able to move the ball against this poor Falcons defense.  They've got to run the ball effectively, which means the offensive line should kick butt.  I think they will.  

The offense key for the Birds will be young quarterback Jalen Hurts.  He  must play smart and stay away from turnovers.  He's going to have opportunities to make big plays, but he can't try to force things.

The Eagles must score touchdowns in the red zone.  We're going to see how good of a play designer Nick Sirianni is because he must utilize Hurts' running ability in the red zone to get in the end zone.  Focus on the design of the offensive plays in the red zone.  It will tell you a lot about how good Sirianni is as an offensive coach.

The Eagles have their work cut out for them.  I'm picking them to win, but I don't really know how good this team will be this year, especially early in the season.