Philadelphia Eagles: 3 observations from the win over the Lions

2. The run defense is a red flag

A.J Brown might’ve been the most high-profile addition to the team, but this Jonathan Gannon defense got quite the facelift this off-season as well. The additions of James Bradberry, Kyzir White, Nakobe Dean, Jordan Davis, Haason Reddick, and, most recently, CJ Gardner-Johnson were supposed to improve the strength of this team’s defense. Despite this, they didn’t look particularly strong on Sunday.

Putting aside a late-game surge by Jared Goff, the Eagles’ defense did a good job of keeping the Lions’ passing game in check. They were in Goff’s face early, getting a sack, forcing a fumble, and taking an interception the other way for six. Where the Philadelphia defense really struggled was defending the Lions’ running backs.

The combo of Philadelphia native Deandre Swift and veteran running back Jamaal Williams accounted for 205 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns on the day. It seemed like they were running around, and through every solo tackle, the Eagles attempted and consistently picked up yards after contact. If the birds don’t clean up their tackling and find a way to contain opposing running backs, they could be in for a long season filled with tough games.