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Tag: Weekend Eagles

  • DeVonta Smith’s target share, intermediate issues, and other numbers to know ahead of Eagles-Rams

    DeVonta Smith’s target share, intermediate issues, and other numbers to know ahead of Eagles-Rams

    The Eagles fell to 2-1 Monday night after a disappointing 27-7 loss in Chicago, one that raised many questions about the state of the team through three games.

    Here are a few of the big picture issues to consider: Is Vic Fangio’s defense much worse than we originally thought? Is Sean Mannion comfortable calling and sequencing games yet? Does the offense have an identity?

    The answers need clarity fast, and maybe they’ll come as soon as Sunday, when the Los Angeles Rams come to town for a 1 p.m. game at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles are entering the meat of their schedule. Next is a Rams team that has Super Bowl aspirations, and after them is a trip to London to face a Jaguars team that just beat the defending AFC champions by almost 30 points.

    Here’s a look at some numbers to know ahead of a highly anticipated Eagles-Rams game:

    32.9%

    Brandon Graham, now away from football and in the podcasting world, got some traction last week after the Eagles’ Week 2 win when he said he thought Jalen Hurts was playing freely and not having to force the ball to certain players.

    Maybe he meant the way the offense is designed gives Hurts more answers, or maybe he was referring to Hurts not having to force the ball to A.J. Brown.

    Either way, the numbers tell a different story. Because DeVonta Smith is seeing a lot … a lot … of action.

    Through three games, 32.9% of Eagles pass attempts have gone toward Smith, the second-highest rate in the NFL behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba (37.9%).

    What we know (and don’t) about the Eagles entering Week 4 vs. the Rams

    If Smith’s target share number holds up, he would have the highest single-season target share of any Eagles player since at least 2000, according to Next Gen Stats.

    There’s some context and curiosity to unpack here. The new Eagles offense asks Hurts to go through pure progression reads rather than the previous iteration that had him diagnose coverages before the snap.

    Is Hurts not getting to his second read often enough? Dontayvion Wicks has better separation metrics than Smith through three games, but his 14 targets lag way behind Smith’s 27. Makai Lemon, meanwhile, has nine targets. Dallas Goedert’s injury also eliminated a trusted pass catcher from the equation.

    Hurts’ pass protection has been shaky, but he’s also not yet been able to spread the ball around effectively.

    Eagles linebackers Zack Baun (left) and Jihaad Campbell tackle Bears tight end Colston Loveland on Monday night.Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

    15

    That’s how many intermediate level throws the Eagles have allowed through three games, according to Next Gen, which classifies an intermediate throw as one that travels 10-to-19 air yards. Five per game doesn’t sound like a lot, but they’re already almost a third of the way to the 49 intermediate throws they allowed in all of 2025.

    Then there’s this from Next Gen: their completion percentage allowed in that area is at 65.2%, seventh-highest in the NFL and nearly 20 percentage points higher than their league-low rate of 42.6% in 2025.

    What’s going on?

    Cooper DeJean hasn’t looked like the All-Pro he was last season, Jihaad Campbell has had some struggles, and the safeties aren’t playing well enough. DeJean and Zack Baun have already been charged with allowing four intermediate catches this year, according to Next Gen, after allowing eight and three, respectively, all of last season.

    It’s not going to get much easier. Here comes Puka Nacua (potentially), who has topped 100 receiving yards in each of his last two regular season matchups vs. the Eagles.

    Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell could be charged again with slowing Puka Nacua on Sunday, if Nacua returns from injury. Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

    6.1

    Rams coach Sean McVay sounded optimistic Nacua would return this week from his groin injury.

    It would be a big boost to a 1-2 Rams team that is much better with him on the field than off it.

    Best of unCovering the Birds: ‘Vic Fangio’s boogeyman’ and the biggest issues for the Eagles defense

    According to Next Gen, entering Week 3 and dating back to 2023 when Nacua was drafted, the Rams have averaged a full yard per play more with him on the field (6.1) than with him on the sideline (5.1).

    Will better success on first down lead to more play action for the Eagles?Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

    4

    What if we told you three weeks ago, before the season started, that the Eagles would be averaging four under center play action plays per game?

    After all the talk about the new dynamic offense Mannion was going to bring to the Eagles, one that would put Hurts under center and marry the run and pass games, you’d think we were crazy, right?

    That’s where they are right now. Their 15 total play action passes are the fewest in the NFL, and they’re not very good when they’re running play action, ranking in the bottom six in the NFL in expected points added (EPA) per play.

    What gives? It’s hard to threaten to run the ball when you’re so often behind the sticks. It’s hard to get into favorable play action situations when you’re struggling to run the ball.

    The Eagles need to stop taking penalties and getting negative plays, and they need to build on the first-half running performance from Monday in Chicago.

    Nick Sirianni (center) and Sean McVay (left) have both won Super Bowls, but McVay has yet to beat Sirianni. David Maialetti / Staff Photographer

    4-0

    Nick Sirianni has never lost to McVay. He’s 4-0 against the Rams coach, including a postseason victory.

    Reason to be hopeful for Eagles fans?

    Maybe. But maybe McVay is due, too.

  • What we know (and don’t) about the Eagles entering Week 4 vs. the Rams

    What we know (and don’t) about the Eagles entering Week 4 vs. the Rams

    The Eagles are no strangers to getting walloped by the Ben Johnson-coached Chicago Bears. But Monday night’s beatdown seemed more ominous than the Week 13 loss last season.

    The offense, hindered by penalties, turnovers, and negative plays, was largely inefficient throughout the game. Seven points scored by the Eagles marked their fewest in a contest since a 13-7 loss to the New York Giants in 2021, which was Nick Sirianni’s first season as head coach.

    Monday night’s loss ended the Eagles’ streak of 75 straight regular season games of scoring at least 10 points, according to Next Gen Stats, which was the longest in franchise history.

    The bigger surprise through three games, though, is that the Eagles defense has been a shell of itself compared to past iterations under Vic Fangio. Missed tackles, more penalties, and busted coverages marred their performance against the Bears, as Johnson got the better of Fangio once again.

    Was Monday a preview of how the Eagles will fare against a slew of tough upcoming opponents, particularly the 1-2 Los Angeles Rams on Sunday? Here’s what we know (and what we don’t) about the Eagles heading into Week 4:

    Will we see more play action from Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley and the rest of the Eagles’ offense?Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

    Blurred vision

    Since joining the Eagles as offensive coordinator, Sean Mannion has laid out aspects of his vision for the offense and the West Coast flavor it would adopt.

    Part of that vision included the marriage of the run and the pass, as the wide-zone run game would help set up the under-center play-action passing game. The Eagles largely hadn’t majored in the run action, especially from under center, since Sirianni took over as head coach.

    Three games into the season, and the Eagles still haven’t. The offense has attempted 15 play-action passes (12 from under center), according to Next Gen Stats, which is the lowest total in the league. They have a minus-.17 expected points added per play-action pass, which ranks in the bottom six.

    Jalen Hurts had four play-action pass attempts on Monday — three from under center, one from the pistol. He completed just one of them, a 19-yarder to Makai Lemon on a crossing route halfway through the first quarter.

    Nick Sirianni has a lot of work to do, and not much time to do it, after Eagles’ weaknesses are exposed in Chicago

    The Bears sniffed out the others. Their solution to the illusion of the run was to blitz a linebacker, who on two of the three plays would go mostly untouched and get in Hurts’ face to force an incomplete pass or, in one case, an intentional grounding. The Eagles quarterback still ended up under pressure on the third, as the protection didn’t hold up, so he scrambled away and threw an incomplete pass to DeVonta Smith.

    It’s too early to say for sure, but the Eagles offense is threatening to follow a similar trajectory as it did in 2024, minus its dominant rushing attack that carried the entire unit to the Super Bowl. That season, the hiring of Kellen Moore as offensive coordinator offered promise of a revamped, dynamic offensive scheme. It quickly reverted to more of the same from past Eagles offenses under Sirianni.

    Can the Eagles implement and execute the scheme that Mannion was hired to install? Or will the ideal of a wholesale change only amount to something half-baked?

    Davante Adams was dominant against the Broncos on Sunday night but the Rams fell in a thriller. Jack Dempsey

    Reeling Rams

    The Eagles must rebound against a ticked-off, yet talented, Rams team if they want to avoid dropping to 2-2.

    A questionable defensive pass interference call against the Rams late in the fourth quarter wiped off an interception and got in the way of a prospective victory on Sunday night against the Denver Broncos. Instead, the penalty prolonged the eventual game-winning scoring drive orchestrated by Broncos quarterback Bo Nix.

    Now, the Rams are 1-2, an underwhelming start to the season for a team considered Super Bowl favorites before it began.

    They still could be, especially considering their personnel on paper, from 2025 MVP Matthew Stafford to their vaunted defensive front headlined by the recently unretired Aaron Donald.

    But no player is without their flaws, especially Stafford. The 38-year-old quarterback tossed his 33rd career pick-six in the loss to the Broncos, a new all-time league high (Brett Favre had 32 from 1991-2010). Stafford has thrown four total interceptions through three games, tied for second-most in the league.

    Jalen Hurts and the Eagles took a major hit against the Bears. They have to find a way to bounce back.

    It’s worth noting that Stafford didn’t face much pressure on any of his four interceptions. If the Eagles are sound in coverage — even if the pass rush doesn’t get home, which has become a recurring theme again this season — perhaps they can force Stafford into making some ill-advised decisions.

    But the Eagles are coming off a defensive performance that included some confusion in the secondary, leading to open receivers and explosive gains for the Bears passing attack. Whether or not that leads to personnel changes this week, especially at safety, the Eagles must iron out the kinks against a Rams passing offense that ranks second in the league in passing yards per game (284).

    Puka Nacua has been sidelined by a groin injury. Scott Barbour

    Nacua’s return?

    That Rams passing offense only stands to improve if Puka Nacua makes his return after missing the last two games of the season with a groin injury.

    Head coach Sean McVay said on Monday that he is “hopeful” Nacua will make his season debut against the Eagles depending on his progress this week.

    The 25-year-old receiver had an All-Pro 2025 season in which he led the league in receptions (129), receiving first downs (80), and receiving yards per game (107.2). His Week 3 outing against the Eagles was one of six in which he eclipsed 100 receiving yards, as he finished with 112 on 11 receptions.

    Eagles defense ‘not on the same page,’ as Ben Johnson and Case Keenum pick them apart

    Davante Adams has stepped up in the passing game in Nacua’s absence. Adams, 33, was a clone of his younger self in the Rams’ 28-6 dismantling of the Giants in Week 2. He finished that contest with 194 yards and two touchdowns on eight receptions, and he followed it up in Week 3 with 137 yards on seven receptions.

    Still, the Rams offense is more prolific when Nacua is on the field. Going into Week 3 and dating back to 2023 when Nacua was drafted, the Rams have averaged a full yard per play more with him on the field (6.1) than with him on the sideline (5.1), according to Next Gen Stats.

    Their explosive play rate had decreased from 14.9% to 11.9% when Nacua had been out. The Rams even run the ball better with him on the field — they had gained 4.6 yards per carry and picked up first downs on 26.5% of plays with Nacua, while they had amassed 3.9 yards per carry and posted a 24.7% first-down rate without him.

    The Rams leverage Nacua’s versatility by lining him up just about anywhere. The Eagles know this well, as he caught his 11 receptions last year against seven different defenders, per Pro Football Focus.

    If he is healthy enough to play on Sunday, whether he is on a snap count or not, it will take the entire Eagles defense to keep him at bay.

  • What national media is saying about the Eagles heading into their ‘Monday Night Football’ matchup with the Bears

    What national media is saying about the Eagles heading into their ‘Monday Night Football’ matchup with the Bears

    It’s Week 3, and teams are no longer fresh. Injuries and depth chart questions have national analysts divided on who will win this week’s Monday Night Football showdown between the Eagles and Chicago Bears (8:15 p.m., 6abc, ESPN).

    Eagles vs. Bears predictions: Our writers pick a winner for the Week 3 game in Chicago

    The Eagles’ biggest change is the potential return of tight end Zach Ertz, who was signed to the practice squad after starting tight end Dallas Goedert went down with a sprained MCL that’s expected to keep him out for a few weeks. For Chicago, quarterback Caleb Williams’ status is unknown after he was carted off with a hamstring injury, and backup Tyson Bagent is in concussion protocol. That could put No. 3 quarterback Case Keenum on the field.

    Gameday Central: What will Zach Ertz bring to the Eagles offense?
    Video: Gameday Central: What will Zach Ertz bring to the Eagles offense?

    QB shuffle

    All eyes are on the quarterbacks. For the Eagles, that means relying on Jalen Hurts while the offense works out its kinks. ESPN analyst Ben Solak says the Birds still have a ways to go and predicts the Bears have a chance to win if Bagent starts.

    “My overall expectations for the Eagles’ offense will remain tempered until I see the line and the running game return to form,” Solak wrote on ESPN.com, “but if Hurts can use his arm to guide them to wins through September and into October, they’ll have time to iron out their rushing issues.”

    Jalen HurtsMonica Herndon

    Other ESPN analysts are focused on Chicago’s quarterback situation, with the starter undetermined. Keenum, who hasn’t played in a regular-season game since 2023, told ESPN’s Courtney Cronin he’s confident if he gets the call.

    “I feel very prepared,” Keenum told ESPN. “It’s what I do every week. It’s what I’ve done for a long time. I’ve been in this league for a long time. If my name’s called, I’m excited to be out there.”

    Keenum, 38, is in his 15th NFL season and is on a two-year contract with the Bears. He has an 84.6 career passer rating and has completed 62.3% of his career passes for 15,175 yards and 79 touchdowns to 51 interceptions. Monday’s game would be his first as a Bear.

    What the Bears are saying about their MNF game against the Eagles

    Bears upset?

    But playing their backup’s backup could still result in a win if the run game powered by Kyle Monangai and Philly native D’Andre Swift finds success, wrote Sports Illustrated.

    “If Chicago’s running backs are finding openings, Keenum could game-manage for most of the game and pick his spots in the passing game when needed against what has been a lockdown Philly secondary,” Andrew Hughes wrote.

    Chicago Bears running back D’Andre Swift (4) is from Philly and played for the Eagles in 2023.Nam Y. Huh

    SI betting analyst Peter Dewey is backing the Bears, at least for the spread, citing Goedert’s injury and a defense that’s had issues in Weeks 1 and 2.

    “I’ll take the points with the Bears at home,” Dewey wrote.

    Eagles odds against the Bears; plus player props for DeVonta Smith and more

    Birds win?

    It’s not all bad news for the Eagles. Despite their slow start, USA Today points to an uphill battle for the Bears in Week 3.

    “Philadelphia has too much talent for a Keenum-led offense that managed only three points against Minnesota,” Adam Kaufman wrote. “If Williams unexpectedly plays, the handicap changes. Without him, I don’t see Chicago producing enough offense to stay competitive.”

  • What the Bears are saying about their MNF game against the Eagles

    What the Bears are saying about their MNF game against the Eagles

    A Monday Night Football showdown against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field is on the horizon for the Eagles.

    The Bears will likely be without starting quarterback Caleb Williams, who hasn’t practiced this week after injuring his hamstring late in Chicago’s 9-3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Williams’ backup, Tyson Bagent, is in concussion protocol and also has not practiced this week.

    That means the next man up would be 38-year-old Case Keenum, who lost to the Eagles in the 2017 NFC Championship game en route to their first Super Bowl win.

    Despite the quarterback uncertainty for Chicago, the Eagles are just slightly favored. Here’s what the Bears have said this week about the matchup:

    unCovering the Birds: A version of Jalen Hurts 'we’ve never seen'
    Video: unCovering the Birds: A version of Jalen Hurts ‘we’ve never seen’

    Defensive line has ‘special players’

    A big talking point this week for the Bears has been Eagles defensive tackles Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis.

    “Up front, those are some of the best two guys up front that are playing the game right now,” Keenum said Wednesday. “I think all over the board you look at playmakers that they have on the defense. So we got our work cut out for us.”

    Carter was limited at practice Thursday with a wrist injury he’s been dealing with since the Eagles’ Week 1 win over the Washington Commanders. But if last week was any indication, he should be good to go for Monday.

    Eagles odds against the Bears; plus player props for DeVonta Smith and more

    Bears offensive lineman Jonah Jackson knows it will take work to rebound from a disappointing offensive performance against the Vikings.

    “They got a heck of a group, man,” Jackson said Monday of the Eagles. “They got special players. They got a lot of star power. They also got another [defensive tackle] named Moro Ojomo. They got a lot of good guys up front, and it’s another challenge each week. Every team has their warheads.”

    Case Keenum, then with the Vikings, lost to Brandon Graham and the Eagles in the 2017 NFC Championship game.DAVID MAIALETTI / Staff Photographer

    Facing Fangio

    A week after putting up just three points against Brian Flores’ elite Vikings defense, the Bears have another challenge ahead in Vic Fangio’s defense, which ranks 10th in yards allowed per game. Fangio served as defensive coordinator in Chicago from 2015-18.

    “Coach Fangio is one of the best in the business for a reason,” Bears coach Ben Johnson said Wednesday. “They make it really difficult for you, and it’s sound.”

    Keenum hasn’t faced an NFL defense in the regular season since he started for the Houston Texans on Christmas Eve in 2023, but he doesn’t expect to have any rust if he starts on Monday night.

    Eagles vs. Bears predictions: Our writers pick a winner for the Week 3 game in Chicago

    Keenum is 3-0 against Fangio-led defenses.

    “They play tricks on your eyes,” Keenum said Wednesday. “They do a really good job pre- and post-snap, and there’s not a lot of just tells to tell you what coverage it’s going to be in beforehand. So you have to be on your P’s and Q’s because they’ll mix up the pressure and simulate some pressure.”

    The Eagles have three sacks and eight tackles for loss this season, and they’ll look to take advantage of an offensive line that’s coming off a poor performance against the Vikings. Former Eagle D’Andre Swift averaged just 2.8 yards per carry last week, but rushed for 124 yards in a Week 1 victory over the Panthers.

    Jalen Hurts

    The Bears know what Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is capable of, and they’ll likely have to shut him down if they want to give themselves a chance in prime time.

    “Obviously, a Super Bowl-winning quarterback, one of the better quarterbacks in the NFL,” Bears defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo said Monday. “They play a physical game, so we have to be at our best on defense as a whole.”

  • Eagles odds against the Bears; plus player props for DeVonta Smith and more

    Eagles odds against the Bears; plus player props for DeVonta Smith and more

    After a comeback victory over the Tennessee Titans in Week 2, the Eagles (2-0) travel to Soldier Field to face the Chicago Bears (1-1). As both teams prepare for a Week 3 matchup on Monday Night Football, here’s a look at updated game odds and some interesting prop bets from two of the biggest sportsbooks:

    Eagles vs. Bears updated odds

    The last time these teams met was in a Black Friday matchup in November 2025, when the Bears defeated the Eagles, 24-15, at Lincoln Financial Field.

    This time around, the Week 3 matchup was looking like the Birds’ toughest challenge to date — especially following the Bears’ 59-37 win over the Carolina Panthers in Week 1. However, that changed in Week 2 after the Bears struggled in a 9-3 loss to the Minnesota Vikings and saw quarterback Caleb Williams get carted off with a hamstring injury.

    Williams is not expected to play against the Eagles, forcing the Bears to rely on Tyson Bagent or Case Keenum under center. Meanwhile, the Eagles have escaped their first two games with a win.

    Entering the week, the FanDuel and DraftKings sportsbooks have the Eagles as 4.5-point favorites.

    FanDuel

    • Spread: Eagles -4.5 (-115); Bears +4.5 (-105)
    • Moneyline: Eagles (-235); Bears (+194)
    • Total: over 41.5 (-108); under 41.5 (-112)

    DraftKings

    • Spread: Eagles -4.5 (-120); Bears +4.5 (+100)
    • Moneyline: Eagles (-225); Bears (+185)
    • Total: over 41.5 (-105); under 41.5 (-115)

    Passing yards

    As of Friday morning, with questions surrounding the Bears starting quarterback, both sportsbooks only listed the over/under odds for Hurts’ passing yards.

    Over the last two weeks, Hurts has thrown for over 200 yards — 203 yards in Week 1 and 264 yards in Week 2. For Monday’s game, his over/under is set at 218 passing yards.

    FanDuel

    Over Under
    Jalen Hurts 218.5 (-114) 218.5 (-114)

    DraftKings

    Over Under
    Jalen Hurts 218.5 (-113) 218.5 (-111)

    Passing touchdowns

    In Week 1, Hurts threw three passing touchdowns. In Week 2, he threw two passing touchdowns and two interceptions.

    FanDuel

    Over Under
    Jalen Hurts 1.5 (+132) 1.5 (-178)

    DraftKings

    Over Under
    Jalen Hurts 1.5 (+123) 1.5 (-157)

    Rushing yards

    In the Bears’ last meeting with the Eagles, Kyle Monangai rushed for 130 yards, and D’Andre Swift rushed for 125. However, in their Week 2 loss to the Vikings, Monangai rushed for 47 yards, and Swift, a former Eagle and St. Joseph’s Prep product, rushed for 45.

    Meanwhile, Tank Bigsby led the Birds in rushing with 33 rushing yards in the team’s Week 2 win over Tennessee. Barkley missed much of the Week 2 win after suffering a stinger, and his status for Monday is unclear.

    FanDuel

    Over Under
    Jalen Hurts 24.5 (-114) 24.5 (-114)
    Saquon Barkley 71.5 (-114) 71.5 (-114)
    D’Andre Swift 68.5 (-114) 68.5 (-114)

    DraftKings

    Over Under
    Jalen Hurts 24.5 (-110) 24.5 (-115)
    Saquon Barkley 73.5 (-114) 73.5 (-110)
    D’Andre Swift 67.5 (-114) 67.5 (-110)

    Receiving yards

    Receiver DeVonta Smith led the team in receiving with 117 yards on 10 receptions vs. Tennessee. Dontayvion Wicks followed with 74 receiving yards on five receptions.

    Swift led the Bears in receiving yards with 54 yards on five receptions last week.

    FanDuel

    Over Under
    DeVonta Smith 72.5 (-114) 72.5 (-114)
    Rome Odunze 25.5 (-114) 25.5 (-114)
    Dontayvion Wicks 41.5 (-114) 41.5 (-114)
    Colston Loveland 31.5 (-114) 31.5 (-114)

    DraftKings

    Over Under
    DeVonta Smith 71.5 (-112) 71.5 (-112)
    Rome Odunze 25.5 (-115) 25.5 (-109)
    Dontayvion Wicks 41.5 (-112) 41.5 (-112)
    Colston Loveland 33.5 (-112) 33.5 (-112)

    Touchdown scorers

    In Week 2, Tank Bigsby, DeVonta Smith, and Darius Cooper found the end zone for the Birds. Meanwhile, the Bears failed to score a touchdown.

    FanDuel

    Anytime TD First TD
    D’Andre Swift -155 +400
    Saquon Barkley -120 +480
    Jalen Hurts +145 +750
    DeVonta Smith +175 +950
    Dontayvion Wicks +330 +1600

    DraftKings

    Anytime TD First TD
    D’Andre Swift -140 +475
    Saquon Barkley -125 +450
    Jalen Hurts +155 +750
    DeVonta Smith +170 +900
    Dontayvion Wicks +300 +1400
  • Eagles vs. Bears predictions: Our writers pick a winner for the Week 3 game in Chicago

    Eagles vs. Bears predictions: Our writers pick a winner for the Week 3 game in Chicago

    A Monday night trip to the Windy City sure looked daunting about a week ago.

    The Chicago Bears opened the eyes of NFL observers with a 59-37 win over the Carolina Panthers in Week 1, with coach Ben Johnson’s desire to produce the highest-scoring team ever looking like a realistic wish. Then came Week 2, when the Bears struggled in a 9-3 loss to Carson Wentz and the Minnesota Vikings, with the indelible image of quarterback Caleb Williams being carted off with a hamstring injury changing the framing of Monday night’s Eagles-Bears matchup substantially.

    This is the same Bears team that ran all over the Eagles at the Linc last year on Black Friday, but are they going to beat the Birds with either Tyson Bagent or Case Keenum playing QB? That’s the question The Inquirer’s Eagles writers considered for their weekly predictions:

    Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) waves as he is carted off the field after an injury during the second half against the Vikings last week. Nam Y. Huh

    Jeff Neiburg

    “The guys with cannons, the way they throw …

    ABC’s got the most explosive show.”

    I don’t think Hank Williams Jr. was thinking about Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum when he wrote the old Monday Night Football theme song. Alas, that’s whom Bears coach Ben Johnson seems likely to turn to if Caleb Williams misses Monday’s game with his hamstring injury.

    Bagent, Williams’ backup, is in the concussion protocol, making Keenum the most likely starter at this point. Yes, that Keenum, the one who is 38 years old and hasn’t started a game since 2023. Yes, that Keenum whom the Eagles romped in the NFC title game in January of 2018.

    It’s hard to pick against the Eagles given the circumstances. Sure, the Bears have an elite ground game that bullied the Eagles for 281 yards last season and already leads the NFL in yards per game so far this season. The Eagles missed 12 tackles last week and have been a bit leaky against the run through two games.

    unCovering the Birds: A version of Jalen Hurts 'we’ve never seen'
    Video: unCovering the Birds: A version of Jalen Hurts ‘we’ve never seen’

    But it’s hard to imagine Vic Fangio not breaking from his typical light box strategy by adding bodies there to take away the run and dare whichever quarterback starts to beat the Eagles with his arm.

    The Eagles do have plenty to clean up. They need to block better for their own running game to be more effective. They need to solve their early-down issues and stop putting themselves in unfavorable third downs. They need to tackle better. They need to get after the quarterback more often.

    Saquon Barkley’s health is a factor worth monitoring, as is the game status of Jonathan Greenard. But it’s a quarterback league, and I can’t see this version of Jalen Hurts — the guy who took over when it mattered in the first two games — losing a close game to Bagent or Keenum.

    Prediction: Eagles 24, Bears 11

    Could Jonathan Greenard be ready to make his Eagles debut on Monday?Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

    Ryan Novozinsky

    The 2-0 Eagles are not a perfect team. That much is clear.

    They squeaked by two lesser opponents in the Commanders and Titans and have posted some concerning stats — chief among them their weak run game production (Eagles running backs have averaged just 3.7 yards per carry).

    It hasn’t all been bad, though. Their third-down conversion rate (53%) is superb and Hurts is clearly meshing with Sean Mannion’s offense. Couple that with their rock-solid defense and you have a winning formula.

    To quote The Inquirer’s David Murphy: the Birds could use an “old-fashioned blowout” to silence their doubters. That should come Monday night in Chicago.

    First look at Zach Ertz back in an Eagles practice uniform
    Video: First look at Zach Ertz back in an Eagles practice uniform

    The Bears shined in their 59-point effort in Week 1, but they’re trotting out Bagent or Keenum at quarterback with Williams injured. Chicago struggled against a tough Vikings defense even before Williams went down, with the QB going just 1-for-4 with an interception on throws of 10-plus air yards.

    The Eagles defense should present similar challenges. While the Eagles don’t blitz nearly as much as the Vikings, their stout defensive front, which also needs a breakout game, will come to life to force Bagent/Keenum into making bad decisions. Chicago’s O-line is tough, but I’m not betting against a motivated Jalyx Hunt, Jalen Carter, or Greenard (if he plays).

    Even if the Bears’ line does protect Bagent/Keenum, they’ll have to worry about a secondary that has allowed the fifth- fewest passing yards so far this season (347). I’m taking Quinyon Mitchell and Co. over a Bagent- or Keenum-led offense every time.

    Prediction: Eagles 28, Bears 3

    Olivia Reiner

    When the schedule first came out, I circled this game as a loss.

    Less than a year ago, the Bears handed the Eagles arguably their worst loss of the 2025 season. This season, the Bears were poised to return to NFC North contention with Williams entering his third year as the starter, his second under Johnson.

    And perhaps they still are. But with Williams’ status uncertain for Monday night, their outlook against the Eagles worsens. Johnson has never started a backup quarterback in his NFL career, either as head coach or offensive coordinator, according to Next Gen Stats, making this a unique challenge for the 40-year-old play-caller.

    What we know (and don’t) about the Eagles entering Week 3 vs. the Bears

    Still, the Bears have a lot going for them offensively, especially in the run game. The Bears have a talented offensive line, which could include left tackle Ozzy Trapilo in his first game back from a patellar tendon injury he sustained in the playoffs. D’Andre Swift gashed the Eagles on the ground last season. But his running mate, Kyle Monangai, is dealing with a knee injury, putting his status in question.

    The Eagles defense hasn’t been dominant against the run, as they rank in the bottom third of the league in expected points added per rush attempt. Were their first two performances against the run anomalies, or are they signs of a budding long-term concern?

    Even if Keenum starts, the Bears might be able to move the ball , especially if they can get going on the ground. But Hurts is off to a strong start under Mannion, and so long as he can continue to build in the right direction, the Eagles should have a shot at going 3-0.

    Prediction: Eagles 24, Bears 17

  • Jalen Hurts is bullish on early chemistry with Eagles wideouts as the offense builds ‘our own thing’

    Jalen Hurts is bullish on early chemistry with Eagles wideouts as the offense builds ‘our own thing’

    It was perhaps the biggest question entering the 2026 season: How would the Eagles’ pass game fare without A.J. Brown?

    DeVonta Smith was lauded as a No. 2 option, but it wasn’t a guarantee he’d thrive as a No. 1 wideout. Dontayvion Wicks was a big wild card. Ditto for rookie Makai Lemon. Few had Darius Cooper making the 53-man roster, let alone being a regular contributor.

    Through two weeks, this room has been an advantage for Jalen Hurts and the Eagles, not a problem.

    Zach Ertz was ‘nervous’ for his first practice back with the Eagles. The next stage of his football life is underway.

    The Birds have five receiving touchdowns through two games, which is tied for fifth best in the NFL entering Thursday. Their 467 receiving yards ranks 11th. Smith has the 13th most yards in the league with 170, while Wicks isn’t far behind him with 147 (19th).

    Compare that to their production in the run game — Eagles running backs averaged just 3.7 yards per carry in the first two weeks — and you can see how much of a difference the receivers have made.

    Wick, in particular, has been a pleasant surprise. The 25-year-old has quickly grown into the ideal No. 2 option, posting 70 or more receiving yards in consecutive games. Last season with the Packers, he only had 70-plus yards one time. Hurts sung his praises in his Thursday press conference.

    “I think Tay’s thinking less because this is something that he’s familiar with,” Hurts said. “And then secondly is the time that we spent together to be able to learn each other. The opportunities I’ve had to learn his body language, to get to know the type of player he is. Everything I’ve seen to that point, he’s given me the utmost confidence. We just want to continue to build. … As a collective [the goal], is just to make this our own thing.”

    Darius Cooper celebrates after scoring the game-winning touchdown on Sunday.Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

    Wicks was an obvious candidate to jell with Sean Mannion’s new offense, given his familiarity with it. Cooper, who scored the game-winning touchdown on Sunday, has been a surprise to outsiders. Not to Hurts, though. The quarterback felt Cooper was primed for a breakout.

    “I don’t think there’s any surprise on what type of player he is,” Hurts said. “How he shows up, the character he has and how he works, he’s been able to show up and he’s been willing to do all the things that can help the team be in the best place.

    “So, I’m proud of him and excited to see him grow. He’s got an old soul. Sometimes you forget how young in his career he is. He’s going to be great.”

    It hasn’t all been perfect. Lemon, for instance, has just nine yards on four receptions, and while he’s shown flashes with his blocking and hustle, it’s no secret the Eagles want more production from their first-round pick.

    Offensive coordinator Sean Mannion talks Eagles’ early-down woes, potential Zach Ertz role

    But with Smith, the top threat in the room, rolling, Lemon can take his time to develop. The former Heisman winner has been a force, coming up clutch on the game-winning drive against Tennessee with 38 yards on four receptions. He finished the game with 117 yards and one touchdown on 10 receptions.

    “I think the ball finds guys who get open and win and do things right,” Mannion said. “Smitty’s a tremendous player. He sets a standard for our offense, for our team, in terms of the way he works every day. It’s not an accident.”

  • From hangouts with former Eagles players to ‘The Bean,’ here’s a guide to Chicago for Birds fans

    From hangouts with former Eagles players to ‘The Bean,’ here’s a guide to Chicago for Birds fans

    The Eagles are headed to Chicago, and Birds fans are expected to follow.

    If you are flying into Midway (or O’Hare if you’re unlucky) for the game, here’s everything you need to know about the Windy City:

    Where do I find fellow Birds fans?

    You are bound to bump into some fellow Eagles fans this weekend by coincidence.

    However, you also can plan to see them at one of the many events held by Eagles fan groups. The Green Legion, which hosted events last weekend in Nashville, is now coming to the Windy City. On Sunday, the group is holding a pep rally at Hopsmith Tavern from 7-10 p.m. The pep rally will feature an open bar and light food. Before kickoff on Monday, the group is hosting a tailgate at Fatpour McCormick: Ultimate Chicago Sports Bar at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are limited for both events and can be found on the Green Legion’s website.

    Philly Sports Trips is also hosting two meetups. From 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, Birds fans can enjoy an open bar and a live DJ at Rebel & Rye restaurant. Former Eagles Hollis Thomas, Todd Herremans, Tra Thomas, and Clay Harbor are slated to attend. On Monday, the group is holding a tailgate at 1914 S. Wabash Ave. — a short walk from Soldier Field. Tickets can be purchased on Philly Sports Trips’ website.

    Are there any Philly spots?

    There are several Philly-themed bars and restaurants in Chicago. A fan-favorite of the Inquirer staff is Philly’s Best — a cheesesteak spot which one sports editor frequented after graduating from college. Philly’s Best is open until 1 a.m. on Monday, so you can get a cheesesteak to celebrate the Birds’ win (or to indulge in your sorrows).

    If you are looking for a bar, The Reveler in Roscoe Village is a popular gathering spot for Birds fans living in Chicago. The bar hosts Eagles watch parties every weekend and even plays the team’s fight song after each score. Of course, they also have a cheesesteak on the menu.

    Where can I see the whole city?

    If you’re scared of heights, skip this part.

    Consider checking out CloudBar — Chicago’s highest bar. CloudBar is located on the 94th floor of the 360 Chicago Observation Deck. The building, which was previously named the John Hancock Center, is located in Chicago’s Magnificent Mile district.

    It’s Philly sports fall with a deluge of big events for each of the city’s pro teams

    Unlike Philadelphia’s swanky SkyHigh bar on the 60th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel, CloudBar is not high end. The bar has no dress code, so feel free to wear that old Zach Ertz jersey you dug out of the closet. Tickets for CloudBar can be purchased on their website.

    What if I want to go to a Bears bar?

    If you want to venture into enemy territory before or after the game, consider The Staley.

    The bar is owned and operated by former Bears defensive end Israel Idonije and is within walking distance of Soldier Field. Like it does every week, the bar is hosting a watch party before and during Monday night’s game.

    Eagles fans can watch DeSean Jackson’s football journey unfold, thanks to 35 years of footage

    Another member of The Inquirer’s staff suggests to have a pint at Black Barrel Tavern located in the West Loop neighborhood. At either spot, just be prepared for some comments on your choice of kelly Green attire. Also, get ready to hear lots about “Da Bears.”

    What are the classic tourist spots?

    Everyone loves the idea of not being a tourist. Sometimes, it’s OK to be one. Here are the top tourist spots in Chicago:

    • It wouldn’t be a visit to Chicago if you did not visit Millennium Park and take a selfie with “The Bean.” The statue, which actually is called Cloud Gate, was finished in 2006 and quickly became one of the landmarks synonymous with the city.
    • If you have some spare time hopping from bar to bar with fellow Birds fans, take a scenic stroll down the Chicago Riverwalk. The path spans multiple neighborhoods and even offers kayak rentals. The architecture boat tours are really cool, too.
    • Like Ferris Bueller, have an afternoon at The Art Institute of Chicago. The museum currently has an exhibition on the art of Mary Cassatt. The painter, who lived from 1844 to 1926, actually received her formal training in Philadelphia. Maybe she’d be a Birds fan, too.
    • Unfortunately, the Cubs are in Boston this weekend, but still check out Wrigleyville. The neighborhood surrounding the famed ballpark boasts famous bars and restaurants like Murphy’s Bleachers, Sluggers, and The Cubby Bear.
  • Zach Ertz was ‘nervous’ for his first practice back with the Eagles. The next stage of his football life is underway.

    Zach Ertz was ‘nervous’ for his first practice back with the Eagles. The next stage of his football life is underway.

    Zach Ertz has played 181 career regular season NFL games and another 11 in the playoffs. He has made three Pro Bowl teams and has 57 career touchdowns. He is 35 years old and 13 years removed from being a rookie second-round pick with the Eagles.

    But he experienced something a little bit different on Thursday.

    “I don’t know if I’ve ever been more nervous for a walkthrough than today,” Ertz said after his first practice back with the Eagles, who signed him to their practice squad earlier this week. “Obviously the past nine-and-a-half months have been tough. A lot of emotions going through today, a lot of prayers going through today, just to try to center myself.”

    The knee injury that ended his 2025 season could have ended his career. There were times he thought it would. Call Thursday, then, the first day of what could be the last stage of his NFL career.

    There was a full-circle feel to it. Ertz said it was “special” to be back on a practice field with Lane Johnson, whom the Eagles selected a round earlier than Ertz in 2013. He’s probably a little envious of Johnson, who still is with the Eagles without any detours to Arizona and Washington. Ertz reiterated Thursday that he never wanted to leave.

    “This is a place that I’ve always called home,” he said. “This is a place that when everyone asks where my favorite place to play is, everyone knows it’s here. There are so many memories when you’re in a place for nine years so it’s special to be back.”

    Eagles tight end Zach Ertz holds up the Lombardi Trophy during the Eagles’ Super Bowl celebration on Feb. 8, 2018.DAVID MAIALETTI / Staff Photographer

    He reconnected with Jeffrey Lurie and Howie Roseman. He liked the expanded locker room and the bigger training room. He also caught up with cafeteria staff and others in the building.

    Ertz and his wife, Julie, left here five years ago childless. He returns now as the father of three boys and armed with new perspective. His football future was up unknown after his injury, but he told himself he wanted to give himself every chance he could to play football again, in part because he wanted to show his sons a tangible example of overcoming adversity.

    “I couldn’t live with the fact that I just gave up and there was a what-if hanging over my life for the rest of my life,” Ertz said.

    Does Zach Ertz still have the juice to contribute to the Eagles? Here’s what the film — and history — says

    The Eagles need all of this to be more than ceremonial, as Inquirer columnist David Murphy wrote earlier this week. More than about him reeling in 11 more catches to become the franchise leader in receptions. The team will be without top tight end Dallas Goedert likely for a few weeks with a sprained MCL. Behind Ertz are a few blocking specialists. Ertz, for now, is on the practice squad, but he could be elevated or signed to the active roster and make his debut Monday.

    “It’s up to the coaches,” Ertz said. “I’m not even on the active roster right now. For me it’s about going out there and proving that I can make a difference in the game. If I can’t make a difference in the game then I shouldn’t be out there.”

    His knee, he said, “feels great,” but he will see how it feels Friday morning. He’s been “cramming,” he said, trying to learn a new offense that he’s never played in. Ertz said there were two or three pass plays left over from when Nick Sirianni installed his first offense in 2021. Routes are routes, but there is a lot of new terminology to learn.

    “We’ll see where he is,” Sirianni said Thursday before practice. “It’s too early to say in my mind where he is, but we will quiz him and figure out where he is on different things.”

    Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni (pictured in 2021) reunited with tight end Zach Ertz on the practice field for the first time since the two parted ways five years ago. HEATHER KHALIFA / Staff Photographer

    Ertz was having another productive season before he suffered his injury in December. He had 11 touchdowns in 30 games over his last two seasons in Washington, where he fell “back in love with the game again” and helped a young quarterback, Jayden Daniels, find his way.

    Ertz admitted Thursday that he wasn’t always good with young players earlier in his career, but now he sees working with them as part of his duties. His locker stall at the Jefferson Health Training Complex tells a story. When he first got here a few days ago, it was in a different spot, but as the practice week got underway, Ertz’s stall was next to that of rookie second-round pick Eli Stowers, who is on injured reserve with a hamstring injury after a training camp where he didn’t really stand out.

    “I don’t think it’s an accident that they put me here,” Ertz said. “I’m excited to work with him. We have the same agent so I’ve heard a lot about his story, a lot about the talent that he has. Not many tight ends can jump 44 inches and run a 4.5. Everyone has a superpower in this league and he’s got to play to his superpower. I’m looking forward to helping him kind of unlock that mentally, physically, to be at his best.

    “I really embrace that role in my later stages of life … football life I should say.”

    It was a good correction. As of Thursday, Zach Ertz’s football life was officially revived.

    Eagles vs. Bears in Week 3: Here are the numbers that matter

    Injury report

    The Eagles had a lengthy first practice report of the week ahead of their Monday night game in Chicago.

    Most notably, Saquon Barkley (stinger) practiced in a limited fashion. But the other two running backs on the active roster did not.

    The following players did not practice: Tank Bigsby (abdomen), Goedert (knee), Will Shipley (foot), and wide receiver DeVonta Smith (hamstring).

    The Eagles listed Barkley, Jalen Carter (wrist), Jonathan Greenard (pectoral), and Andrew Mukuba (knee) as limited participants.

    Tyler Steen (shoulder) was a full participant.

  • Eagles vs. Bears in Week 3: Here are the numbers that matter

    Eagles vs. Bears in Week 3: Here are the numbers that matter

    The Eagles are 2-0, though maybe not in the manner you envisioned.

    Their third game of the season is a Monday Night Football showdown on the road at the Chicago Bears, a game that may lose some of its luster should Caleb Williams miss the game for the Bears with a hamstring injury.

    Williams’ status is a major storyline, but there are other factors and trends at play.

    Here are some numbers worth paying attention to.

    Sean Mannion’s offense has struggled on first down but has thrived on third down.Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

    32nd

    That’s where the Eagles rank in success rate on first and second downs, according to Sportradar. As a reminder, there are 32 NFL teams.

    The Eagles average a league-worst 2.6 yards per play on first down. The Dolphins rank 31st at 3.2 yards. The Eagles have survived, however, because they have been one of the best teams in the NFL on third and fourth downs.

    In fact, according to SumerSports, the Eagles have the largest difference in success rates between early downs and late downs to start a season since 2022.

    Offensive coordinator Sean Mannion talks Eagles’ early-down woes, potential Zach Ertz role

    That is not a sustainable way to run an offense.

    “We’re really close on a lot of our things on first and second down,” offensive coordinator Sean Mannion said on Wednesday.

    Mannion has called a running play on 65% of first downs through two games. The Eagles currently rank 28th in yards per carry. Saquon Barkley’s status is uncertain after the running back suffered a stinger Sunday in Nashville. It won’t matter who is running if the Eagles don’t block better.

    Another sluggish performance from the offense could allow a team starting a backup quarterback to stay in the game.

    Zach Ertz scored all 11 of his Commanders touchdowns over the last two seasons on plays that started inside the 20-yard line.Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

    71%

    Zach Ertz caught 71% of his targets over the last two seasons with the Washington Commanders, a number that is higher than his career catch rate of 67%.

    He may soon be 36, but that’s not the sign of a declining player. What might be? Ertz’s average separation per target was 2.7 yards in his 13 games last season, his lowest since 2019.

    Does Zach Ertz still have the juice to contribute to the Eagles? Here’s what the film — and history — says

    It’s hard to imagine Ertz being a much better separator after recovering from a major knee injury, but he has been a reliable target over the middle of the field in recent years. That’s what the Eagles need out of him if he indeed makes his return to the field Monday night as the team deals with Dallas Goedert’s absence.

    Ertz, who is 11 catches from becoming the team’s all-time receptions leader, has done a lot of his damage in the red zone — all 11 of his Commanders touchdowns over the last two seasons came on plays that started inside the 20-yard line — and the Eagles will need that type of big-body target with Goedert sidelined.

    The Eagles missed 12 tackles in Sunday’s win over the Titans.Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

    12

    The Eagles missed a whopping 12 tackles against the Titans.

    Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said his unit has to “close space a little bit better.”

    Well, here comes the team that ran all over the Eagles in 2025. The Bears rushed for 281 yards in a Black Friday drubbing of the Eagles last November. And if Williams is out, the running game will be even more critical to Chicago’s success.

    The two-headed running game for the Bears has already caused some damage through two games. According to Next Gen Stats, the Bears have rushed outside the tackles 28 times for 279 yards and six touchdowns.

    Eagles’ Vic Fangio says safety starters are staying put, won’t increase Cooper DeJean’s snaps at the position

    They are the only team since at least 2018 with more than nine yards per carry or more than four touchdowns on outside runs over the first two weeks of a season. Kyle Monangai has racked up 119 yards on eight outside carries and has forced seven missed tackles on those runs.

    The Eagles will need to clean up their tackling in a major way, especially if Monangai and D’Andre Swift make their way to the back line of the defense. The safeties, Andrew Mukuba and Marcus Epps, were charged with three missed tackles apiece vs. Tennessee, according to Pro Football Focus.

    Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio was not happy with the missed tackles last week.Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

    5

    Perhaps the Eagles are trying too hard to create a turnover and are missing tackles because of it.

    “We have to tackle and not miss tackles because we’re trying to go for the ball,” Fangio said. “That bugs me.”

    The Eagles haven’t created a turnover yet. It’s only been two games, but they’ve done something pretty rare.

    What we know (and don’t) about the Eagles entering Week 3 vs. the Bears

    A tip of the hat to NBC Sports’ Reuben Frank for this stat: The Eagles are only the fifth team in NFL history to start a season 2-0 despite not creating a turnover. Two other teams haven’t created a turnover yet this season: Houston and Washington. They are both winless.

    “We’re due,” Fangio said.

    Ben Johnson (right) has never had a backup quarterback play for him as an offensive coordinator or head coach.Eric Hartline, Imagn Images

    0

    That’s how many games Ben Johnson has had to start a backup quarterback in his time as a head coach and offensive coordinator in the NFL, according to Next Gen. Jared Goff started all 51 games under Johnson when the coach was the coordinator in Detroit. Williams hasn’t missed a start since Johnson took over as Bears head coach last season.

    Johnson has said that he wants to have the highest-scoring offense in NFL history. That goal becomes a little more difficult to attain if Johnson is forced to turn to either Tyson Bagent or Case Keenum — neither of whom has started a game since 2023 — on Monday night or beyond.