Section 215
Fansided

Philadelphia Eagles: 5 key matchups to watch in Week 1 vs Washington

By David Esser

LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 15: Zach Ertz #86 of the Philadelphia Eagles and Landon Collins #20 of the Washington Redskins speak during the first half at FedExField on December 15, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD - DECEMBER 15: Zach Ertz #86 of the Philadelphia Eagles and Landon Collins #20 of the Washington Redskins speak during the first half at FedExField on December 15, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 6
Next
LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 24: Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Redskins lines up against Darius Slay #23 of the Detroit Lions during the first half at FedExField on November 24, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 24: Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Redskins lines up against Darius Slay #23 of the Detroit Lions during the first half at FedExField on November 24, 2019 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

Darius Slay vs Terry McLaurin

WR Terry McLaurin put up a combined total of 10 receptions, 255 yards, and 2 TDs against the Eagles last season. For anyone keeping score at home, that’s really really good.

Despite having pretty below average QB play behind him during both games, the former Ohio State wideout had an absolute field day going up against Philadelphia corners last season. Now granted, the Eagles CBs last year included the likes of Ronald Darby, Rasul Douglas, and Sidney Jones at times, but nevertheless it looked like McLaurin has this team’s number.

Howie Roseman’s blockbuster move this offseason was landing All-Pro corner Darius Slay, and one would have to assume he was acquired to shadow opposing team’s WR1. Slay arguably has some of the best man coverage skills in the NFL, and his ability to trail receivers is what made him such a sought after candidate.

McLaurin did put up 5 receptions and 72 yards when facing Slay and the Lions last year, but he was also held to a catch rate of 41.7% during that game, his lowest of the season. Watching these two technicians battle it out on the outside will likely dictate the final score of the game.

If Slay can keep “Scary Terry” in check, Philly should win with ease. If McLaurin can beat “Big Play Slay” once or twice on a deep ball, the score might be far closer than Eagles fans would prefer.

Home/Philadelphia Eagles