5 Reasons Eagles Can Beat The Seahawks
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Seattle Seahawks have lost just a grand total of five times at home since Russell Wilson joined the team in 2012.
Wilson has not lost any NFL game by more than 10 points in his career. But either has Carson Wentz, who actually has comparable numbers to Wilson through their first nine career games.
The Eagles may be 6.5-point underdogs at Seattle on Sunday, but here are five reasons why they can win.
5. Lack of rushing game
The Seahawks are relatively one dimensional. Second year running back Thomas Rawls has played just two games this season due to injury (he's expected back on Sunday), rookie C.J. Prosise has found a role as their passing down back, and they released Christine Michael this week.
Seattle is 30th in the NFL in rushing, averaging just 77.7 yards per game.
4. Third-down
Seattle's third-down defense is just 27th in the NFL. The Eagles need to rely on their running game (5-1 when they rush for 100 yards) and stay out of third and longs. If they can do that, they may be able to move the chains and control the ball.
3. Coming off an emotional win
Seattle is 6-2-1, coming off a 31-24 win at the New England Patriots on the final play of the game. It was a Sunday night game too. Hopefully they're taking the Eagles a little bit lightly.
2. Lack of big plays
The Seahawks only have 33 "big plays" which is tied for second least in the NFL, per sporting charts. These "big plays" are classified as rushing attempts over 10 yards and completions over 25 yards.
As long as the Eagles' defense can limit big plays, they should be able to stay in the game.
1. Seahawks offensive line
Pro Football Focus graded the Seahawks o-line as 29th in the NFL, calling it a "terrible offensive line." Fletcher Cox, Brandon Graham, and company should be able to wreak some havoc on Wilson.
