DeMarco Murray And Eagles Three-Headed Rushing Attack Are Ready To Roll
By Ed Benkin
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- DeMarco Murray had more carries than anyone in the NFL last season. This year, he will be more than happy to share the workload.
Murray will join Ryan Mathews and Darren Sproles to form what they hope will be a three-headed rushing monster which will terrorize opposing defenses. For Murray, the chance to split the carries and stay fresh throughout the season was part of the appeal of leaving Dallas for Philadelphia.
"I've never been a part of three backs who have all been in the Pro Bowl," said Murray. "Great guys and one of the hardest working groups that I've ever been a part of, so I think that speaks volumes."
It will be Chip Kelly's responsibility to figure out how to divide up the carries for his three talented running backs, but the Eagles' coach is confident all three will be able to contribute. He also trusts Running Backs Coach Duce Staley to do his part when it comes to figuring out the right rotation.
"I don't think it's very difficult," Kelly said. " I think Duce always does a really good job, depending on who is available to him, in terms of rotating those guys in. The biggest thing for us is we just want to keep someone fresh in the game, so if it takes getting you out for a couple of plays just to get your wind and get you back, it takes a toll on the defense."
While the running backs should play a big part in the success of the offense, the Eagles are hoping to put together a balanced attack. Rookie Wide Receiver Nelson Agholor has had a very impressive preseason, and Kelly believes he will be able to make an immediate impact. However, Agholor is taking a businesslike approach to his first NFL game, and is equally excited for his teammates.
"These are special guys," said Agholor. "I know Monday night is going to be a great stage for a lot of people to do special things. I think for myself, I'm just blessed to be in the position I'm in and to play along some of the guys I'm playing along with. That's going to be the best part for me."
While there should be plenty of opportunities for everyone on offense to contribute, Murray says statistics won't be what motivates his team. The former Cowboy says there is only one goal for him as an Eagle.
"It's all about winning," Murray said. "For me, it's always been about winning. Obviously, I want to be out there as a competitor, but I think at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is wins."
The Eagles were forced to practice indoors on Thursday. Tight End Zach Ertz and Linebacker Marcus Smith were back at practice for the second straight day.
