The Eagles’ Run Game Conundrum: Why Philadelphia’s Ground Attack is Stalling and What It Means for Their Super Bowl Hopes
A startling statistic is echoing through Philadelphia: the Eagles are averaging their fewest yards per rush (3.5) since Nick Sirianni arrived in 2021. After riding a dominant rushing attack to the Super Bowl last season, the team’s current struggles on the ground aren’t just a statistical blip – they represent a fundamental shift in offensive philosophy and a potential roadblock to repeating as champions. The question isn’t whether the Eagles want to run the ball, but whether they can effectively do so against increasingly sophisticated defenses.
The Shifting Defensive Landscape
Opponents aren’t simply stacking the box against the Eagles’ run game. Instead, they’re deploying a higher rate of two-high safety coverage, forcing Jalen Hurts and the passing attack to beat them deep. This isn’t a new strategy in the NFL, but the Eagles’ inability to consistently exploit these coverages with their rushing attack – or even consistently attempt to – is the core of the problem. Philadelphia’s offensive success has historically hinged on forcing defenses to respect both the pass and the run, creating advantageous matchups. Right now, that balance is severely tilted.
“They was playing man-to-man,” A.J. Brown explained after the Denver game, highlighting the Eagles’ comfort in exploiting single coverage. But that comfort has seemingly come at the expense of establishing a reliable ground game. The Eagles are running the ball less frequently out of 11 personnel (three receivers) than they did last year, despite facing fewer defenders in the box. This suggests a strategic decision, but one that’s yet to yield the same level of offensive efficiency.
Saquon Barkley and the Offensive Line: A Troubling Disconnect
The acquisition of Saquon Barkley was supposed to solidify the Eagles’ commitment to a powerful running game. However, Barkley’s yards before contact (0.98) are alarmingly low, tied for 23rd among starting running backs. This isn’t solely a reflection of Barkley’s performance; it’s a damning indictment of the offensive line’s inability to consistently create running lanes. While injuries to key linemen like Lane Johnson and Landon Dickerson have undoubtedly played a role, even when at full strength, the line hasn’t been able to replicate last year’s dominance.
The offensive line, long considered a cornerstone of the Eagles’ success, is facing scrutiny. While Coach Sirianni downplays the impact of injuries, the numbers tell a different story. Barkley is averaging 2.1 fewer yards per rush than he did through the first five games of last season, and his yards before contact are down by 1.28. This isn’t just about individual performance; it’s a systemic issue that needs addressing.
The Run-Pass Option Dilemma and Play-Calling Trends
Eagles offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo points to run-pass option (RPO) plays as a factor, explaining that defenses are influencing the play call. While RPOs offer flexibility, the Eagles’ tendency to default to the pass on first down is concerning. They’re running the ball on a significantly lower percentage of first downs compared to last year, even in situations where a run might be strategically advantageous.
This shift in play-calling is contributing to a decline in first-down efficiency, leading to longer distances on subsequent downs and a lower third-down conversion rate. Philadelphia’s EPA (Expected Points Added) per play on first downs has dropped from seventh in the league last year to 20th this year, a clear indication that their offensive approach isn’t as effective.
Looking Ahead: Adapting to the Modern NFL
The Eagles aren’t alone in facing these challenges. The NFL is evolving, with defenses becoming increasingly adept at neutralizing traditional running attacks. Teams are prioritizing coverage and forcing offenses to earn their yards through the air. However, successful teams still maintain a credible running threat to keep defenses honest. The Eagles need to find a way to re-establish that balance.
One potential solution lies in more effectively exploiting the vulnerabilities created by two-high safety coverage. This could involve utilizing play-action passes to draw defenders up, creating running lanes for Barkley, or incorporating more designed runs against lighter boxes. It also requires a willingness to commit to the run, even when the passing game is clicking. As Pro Football Network highlights, successful offenses are increasingly adaptable, blending multiple schemes to keep defenses guessing.
The Eagles’ success this season hinges on their ability to address these issues. Simply hoping the offensive line gets healthy or Barkley finds his rhythm isn’t enough. They need a strategic adjustment, a renewed commitment to the run, and a willingness to adapt to the evolving defensive landscape. The road to another Super Bowl run won’t be paved with explosive passes alone.
What adjustments do you think the Eagles need to make to revitalize their running game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
