yahoo
When the Philadelphia Eagles began the 2024 season, their defensive front was projected to be among the league's most formidable units. But after seven games, that promise has devolved into one of the team's most glaring weaknesses.
In Monday night's loss to the Dallas Cowboys, Vic Fangio's defense surrendered 416 total yards and 38 points while failing to register a single sack, quarterback hit, or tackle for loss. It marked the highest point total allowed by Philadelphia since Fangio took over as defensive coordinator.
Dallas, which had averaged just 76 rushing yards per game over its first six contests, exploded for 204 yards on the ground. Running back Javonte Williams punished the Eagles' front seven, racking up 155 yards and a touchdown on 25 carries, consistently finding seams in the defense.
Quarterback Dak Prescott also tormented Philadelphia, throwing three touchdown passes despite attempting only 15 passes. Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb hauled in two of those scores, including a 16-yarder against Riq Woolen that swung the lead back to Dallas in the third quarter.
Philadelphia tried various defensive alignments, but the Cowboys' offense kept rolling. Dallas scored on six of its first seven possessions, putting immense pressure on an Eagles offense that was already missing several starters.
The problems extended beyond the secondary. The defensive line failed to maintain gap discipline, set a consistent edge, or generate pressure without blitzing. The absence of Nolan Smith was keenly felt, especially against the run, and the interior line struggled to match Dallas' physicality. Linebacker Zack Baun led the team with nine tackles, but the defense as a whole made few impact plays.
Over the past four games, the Eagles have allowed at least 399 yards each time—a troubling trend for a roster constructed to win at the line of scrimmage. Fangio's unit must improve rapidly, with NFC East matchups against Washington and the New York Giants on the horizon.
While the offense has dealt with quarterback injuries, an unsettled offensive line, and a thinning backfield, the defense was supposed to be the stabilizing force. Instead, it has become a primary reason why the Eagles sit at 2-5 and are scrambling for solutions.
Originally reported by yahoo.