The Philadelphia Eagles are licking their wounds after seeing their dream start to 2023 turn into a nightmare.
Despite the ice-cold cooling in the last time fans saw the team play, one analyst hasn’t been shaken off the bandwagon.
Writing in a recent article for Bleacher Report, analyst Brad Gagnon predicted a return to form for Nick Sirianni’s unit.
“The ceiling is wildly high, and with that level of talent and experience it’s likely 2023 was an aberration. At the very least, I think they capture the NFC East and make a run to the NFC title game,” he wrote.
Of course, baked into his prediction was the assumption that the team would find a way to replace Jason Kelce. The center appeared to be critical in the tush push. Teams attempted to duplicate the infamous play throughout the season but to no avail. If no other team could replace Kelce’s play, will the Eagles be able to do so?
If so, credit for the play could be moved to either Sirianni or Jalen Hurts.
However, players often make plays.
Lamar Jackson doesn’t have the same playbook as Trevor Lawrence. Tom Brady didn’t have the same playbook as Michael Vick, either.
As such, the team’s ability to use the tush push effectively could be the catalyst for success this season. On the other hand, the Eagles did invent the play, so one can only wonder if Sirianni’s squad can invent another unstoppable play this season with his new-look offensive line.
Saquon Barkley’s addition provides new spark for Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are heading into a new year and no two rosters are the same between seasons. Some teams take steps forward while others slip. With the addition of Saquon Barkley, the Eagles have reason to believe that their team took a net step forward.
As a former member of the New York Giants, the running back has an inside window into the team’s operation. In other words, the two-time Pro Bowler could prove to shut the door on any chance of the Giants surprising the Eagles with their offense in 2024. Plus, with his exit, the Giants no longer have him, providing a massive swing in Philadelphia’s favor.
Additionally, by signing Barkley, the Eagles kept the Dallas Cowboys from getting him.
The Cowboys will rely on Ezekiel Elliott as their main ball carrier this season. In 2016, that would have been an advantage for the Cowboys. This year, it serves as an advantage for the Eagles.
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders have a rookie quarterback and thus have a low ceiling this year by default.
As such, there is a realistic chance for the Eagles to win the NFC East, which gets them at least one home playoff game. One home playoff game can start playoff momentum, which could push the team into the conference championship.
Will Barkley be the spark for the Eagles this year?
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