Eagles (2-5) at Lions (0-7)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Ford Field, Detroit
TV: CBS
Tipico Sportsbook line: Eagles
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Eagles’ keys to victory: Philly has one of the most effective running offenses in the NFL, but it runs the ball less than almost every other team. Sticking to the run with RB Miles Sanders, RB Kenneth Gainwell and QB Jalen Hurts would make life easier for Hurts in what has been an inconsistent and inefficient passing game. No team committed more penalties through the first six weeks than Philadelphia, so avoiding self-inflicted wounds is key. Detroit relies heavily on yards after catch, making tackling by the linebackers and secondary, notably S Anthony Harris, critical.
Lions’ keys to victory: They’re a team built to play with a lead, but the Lions failed to play a single offensive snap with a lead in the first six weeks. Coming out strong and scoring early would be huge in boosting the run game led by RB Jamaal Williams and RB D’Andre Swift. Containing Hurts and the run game will be crucial for LB Alex Anzalone and S Tracy Walker, but that also means coverage from S Will Harris and LB Derrick Barnes will need to step up.
Matchup to watch: Eagles DT Javon Hargrave vs. Lions C Evan Brown. Hargrave is one of the NFL’s best interior pass rushers and all-around tackles. Brown has played better than expected in replacing injured Pro Bowler Frank Ragnow, and he’ll need to rise up to keep the potent Hargrave from ruining the Lions’ conservative offensive game plan.
Who wins? The Eagles should be confident on the road, but Detroit matches up well with Philadelphia’s team strengths.
Lions, 23-20