Super Bowl LII:
What to expect when the Eagles and Patriots match up.
When the Eagles have the ball
Minnesota, The Patriots which must has be a wary better of overall defense than does New Enng a balanced offense that tore apart gland. Forget about Nick Foles being a backup quarterback; his postin season performances, particularly in the NFC title game, have been strong.
Foles will try to get tight end Zach Ertz involved early; he was unstoppable against the Vikings. Indeed, the Eagles have three tight ends they are comfortable going to, the others being Brent Celek and Trey Burton. That places an onus on safeties Devin McCourty, as reliable as any player at that position in the league, and Patrick Chung.
Philadelphia’s wideouts supposedly were a weakness headte. ing into the season. Not quite Alshon Jeffery is a clear No. 1 target with excellent hands and the ability to get open all over the field. That frees up vastly improved Nelson Agholor and veteran Torrey Smith. They will challenge the Patriots’ solid cornerbacks, Malcolm Butler and Stephon Gilmore. New England will need a bolstered pass rush, something the Patriots manufacture with a variety of players, from Trey Flowence ers to Geneo Grissom to Lawrence Guy to rookie Adam Butler to rejuvenated linebacker James Harrison. Philly is most staunch at center with Jason Kelce and right tackle with Lane Johnson, both All-Pros.
One thing the Eagles are sure to try to keep New England’s offense on the sideline is creating room to roam for running backs Jay Ajayi, LeGarrette Blount and rookie Corey Clement. New England linebacker Kyle Van Noy figures to have a busy day unless Philly falls behind.