JACK MCCAFFERY’S 5 EAGLES KEYS TO THE GAME

1.

Make Patrick Mahomes one-dimensional: The Chiefs’ quarterback is Hall of Fame bound for both his passing and running abilities, but he his known to have a high-ankle sprain and was clearly slowed throughout the AFC playoffs. The Eagles led the NFL with 70sacks – 15more than secondplace Kansas City. If they trust their strong secondary to limit his passing options, the Eagles’ pass rushers will limit Mahomes’ running effectiveness … one hit on the ankle at a time.

2.

Shorten the game: Even if Mahomes is not 100 percent, he is the best quarterback in the NFL. Keeping him off the field as much as possible is mandatory, and to do that, the Eagles must unfold long, clock-draining drives. Their All-Star offensive line (above) must open holes for the running backs to let that happen.

3.

Keep the Chiefs’ defense honest: Among the greatest charms of the Eagles is their rare unselfishness. Despite multiple star-level offensive players, none has created a single stir all season when his stat line was a little light. With one game left, Jalen Hurts must so spread the opportunities to A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Dallas Goedert, Miles Sanders (left, above) and others that the Chiefs never know which weapon is going to be used next … at whatever risk to any egos.

4.

Let Jalen Hurts loose: Even if he has a recovering shoulder, his running ability is what makes the Eagles special. It’s the Super Bowl, and if Hurts – through some urge to practice caution – is not himself, the Eagles will be in too deep against a very good defense.

5.

Take advantage of institutional knowledge: In his second season and first Super Bowl, Nick Sirianni is at risk of being overwhelmed by the hype, crowds and lengthy halftime carrying-on. But he has been leaning on the many individuals on his staff still around the NovaCare Complex from just five years ago (above, from left, Brandon Graham, Lane Johnson, GM Howie Roseman, Fletcher Cox and Jason Kelce, all Super Bowl 52champions, celebrating another NFC title)). He has even been unfolding the Super Bowl agendas still on file. They worked once. They could work again.