Philadelphia Eagles Research Paper

Last Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles suffered their first loss of the season, falling to the Detroit Lions, 24-23. The Eagles had to fight their way back from an early 14-0 deficit in the first half and played better football in the second half.

However, it wasn't enough as rookie quarterback Carson Wentz threw his first interception of the season, late in the fourth quarter as he was trying to find wide receiver Nelson Agholor for a big play.

Nevertheless, the Eagles (3-1) have to dust themselves off and get ready for this Sunday's matchup against their NFC East division rival, Washington Professional Football Team. Last season, Washington swept the season series from the Eagles en route to a division crown.

With revenge on their mind,
2. The Eagles' running game has to be a focal point on offense

Last week against the Lions' defense, the Eagles' running game was non-existent. The Eagles' offense had 116 rushing yards but Darren Sproles and Ryan Mathews only contributed 87 yards on 16 carries. While that equals to 5.4 yards per carry, which is good. The Eagles did not use the same running back by committee, which worked against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3.

Against the Steelers, the Eagles' offense amassed 125 rushing yards with rookie Wendell Smallwood and Kenjon Barner leading the way. While those two running backs were having productive games, Sproles made an impact in the receiving game, and Mathews was hampered with an ankle injury.

Nevertheless, looking forward to this weekend's game against Washington, Eagles head coach Doug Pederson should make it an emphasis to run the ball. Through fives games this season, Washington's defense is giving up 130.0 rushing yards per game, which is good for 30th in the
It could be the difference between a win or loss.

3. Carson Wentz needs to continue to play smart football

Despite, throwing an interception on the Eagles' final offensive drive of the game, rookie quarterback Carson Wentz had a good game against Detroit. Wentz completed 75.7 percent of his passes for 238 yards, to go along with two touchdowns and the aforementioned interception.

That is still a pretty good stat line and there are things from the Lions' game that makes you believe that Wentz will not let one interception bog him down.

However, the Lions' defense is not Washington's defense as they have more playmakers and a guy in the secondary named Josh Norman. This season, Washington's defense is giving up 262.0 passing yards per game but has nine