Five Big-Picture Takeaways From Eagles Week 5 Win Vs. Saints

2.) The Run Game Has More Potential With Ryan Mathews Carrying the Ball

Oct 11, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Ryan Mathews (24) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints during the third quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

DeMarco Murray had every opportunity to prove that his statistical issues going into week five came as a result of poor offensive line play and a defense keying in on the Eagles rushing attack. The line blocked as well as it has all season, the receivers and tight ends chipped in on the perimeter, and the passing game was strong enough to keep the Saints from loading the box. Though Murray did put forth his strongest statistical effort of the season with 84 yards on 20 carries, he did little to ease the concerns of some who feel as if he may not be the best option to handle the bulk of the team’s run game going forward.

Whether or not Murray is still carrying lingering effects of the hamstring ‘tweak’ that kept him out of the team’s week three win over the Jets, there is something to be desired when he takes the hand-off compared to when Ryan Mathews does. Sunday against the Saints was no different. Mathews was able to gash a porous New Orleans defense to the tune of 83 yards on just seven carries. The former Charger was decisive and explosive in his runs, he allowed his linemen to dictate his path, and he showed some deceptive quickness at the point of attack. Save for a few instances, Murray appeared less decisive in his runs and missed a few opportunities at larger gains because of it.

All things considering, the offensive line has to prove it can string together multiple performances like Sunday’s before they can silence their detractors. Murray will have an extra day to prepare for a stout Giants rush defense in next week’s Monday night showdown. Murray has averaged 96.2 yards per game against New York, and will be taking part in his first primetime action as an Eagle. The former Cowboy does not necessarily have to go out and try to earn his contract every time he touches the ball. Having Mathews and Darren Sproles to spell him should take his focus off trying to duplicate his statistical output from last season. If Chip Kelly does prefer to utilize a primary back, though, Mathews appears to be the better option.