A Philadelphia Eagles offense looking for a pulse could possibly be with out one in all its prime playmakers for a pivotal Week 13 NFC showdown.
Huge receiver DeVonta Smith was listed as DNP (didn’t take part) on the Eagles’ Wednesday damage report, the second consecutive day he received the designation. Per Wednesday’s report, Smith is coping with shoulder and chest accidents in addition to sickness.
On Friday, the Eagles (8-3) host the Chicago Bears (8-3) in a recreation between division leaders.
Philadelphia Eagles cannot afford DeVonta Smith to overlook Week 13 versus Bears
Smith is Philadelphia’s main receiver, gaining 754 yards on 55 receptions (13.7 yards per catch). His well being might be key for an Eagles offense that’s struggling mightily in opposition to a Bears secondary that could possibly be the healthiest it has been all season.
Cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson (groin) and Kyler Gordon (calf) have been full contributors at observe the previous two days. Each are on injured reserve however could be activated for Friday’s game.
The 2 gamers have been restricted to 3 mixed video games this season, and their potential return could possibly be an enormous enhance to a Bears protection that ranks No. 21 in opposition to the cross, permitting 224.7 yards per recreation. The Eagles, in the meantime, are No. 22 in passing offense, averaging 225 yards per recreation. Philadelphia has didn’t generate many explosive performs by the air, and probably shedding Smith will make it more durable for the Eagles to push the ball downfield.
Which may result in one other week of vanilla play-calling with Philadelphia taking part in it protected. As unappealing as that sounds, it might work to the Eagles’ benefit. The Bears have the league’s most opportunistic protection, forcing a turnover on 20 % of opponents drives, per Pro Football Reference, whereas Philadelphia has the league’s lowest turnover fee (4.4 %).
At a sure level, nevertheless, the Eagles should open up their offense. With the Bears averaging 30.3 factors and 403.8 yards per recreation throughout their present four-game win streak, that could possibly be as quickly as this Friday. Philadelphia may have a way more tough time doing so if Smith cannot play.
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