Hogs Haven
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Defensive coordinator Shane Bowen searching for answers
“The explosive runs is an area we’ve got to improve. And it’s three to four runs a game. And then you’ve got another 20, 22 that you feel pretty good about,” Bowen said on Thursday. “So we’ve got to do a good job finding ways to eliminate those.
“Making sure we’re tackling. Making sure we’re fitting things appropriately. Playing with fundamentals. Being where we’re supposed to be. Getting off blocks.”
The Giants are last in the NFL, allowing 5.3 yards per rushing attempt. They have also given up the most 20+ yard runs (15) and 40+ yard runs (4), per NFL.com.
The Eagles listed two players under DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DeVonta Smith and Bryce Huff.
Smith sat out again on Thursday. Two missed practices typically don’t bode well for a player’s chances of playing. If DeVonta can’t suit up, the Eagles will roll with the following wide receivers: A.J. Brown, Jahan Dotson, Britain Covey (assuming he’s activated from injured reserve), Johnny Wilson, and Ainias Smith.
Huff had wrist surgery on Thursday. One would think he’s headed for a stint on injured reserve.
Philadelphia’s offensive line was back at its best and played the best game of its season in Week 11 against Washington. The unit did not allow a single sack or quarterback hit and surrendered just three hurries in a win over the Commanders. As a result, their 95.6 FPF pass-blocking efficiency rating led the NFL this week.
Left tackle Jordan Mailata returned to the lineup following his injury and played at a very high level. Mailata did not allow a single pressure against Washington, and his 89.5 PFF overall grade led all offensive tackles in Week 11.
Johnson has allowed pressure on 1.5% of pass plays this season, the best rate of his career.
Washington’s offensive line put forth an uncharacteristic game in Week 11’s loss to the Eagles. The unit surrendered 14 pressures — including two sacks — on 39 pass plays, leading to a 79.5 PFF pass-blocking efficiency rating that ranked fifth worst in the NFL this week.
The main culprit was rookie left tackle Brandon Coleman, who allowed seven pressures — tied for...
