(Photo: Los Angeles Times)

NFC Game Of The Week

Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles

Rams (2-0):

I was high on them entering the season, and here they are, sitting at 2-0. In fact, every team in the NFC West won this past weekend, and now there’s a three-way tie for first, with three teams in the division sitting at 2-0. I knew Sunday in Nashville wouldn’t be easy—Tennessee has played hard through the first two weeks, they just struggle to close out games. It was tight, but the veteran Rams found a way to take the lead and hold on for another win. I didn’t know what to expect from Matthew Stafford early on, especially since he’d been dealing with a back injury during camp. Once I heard that, I figured the game plan would be simple: lots of Kyren Williams. Speaking of Stafford—he’s played with some quality wide receivers over the years: Calvin Johnson, Golden Tate, Cooper Kupp, and now, he has Puka Nacua and Davante Adams to throw to. I like this Rams team because they’re extremely well-coached. Sean McVay is one of the five best coaches in the league today. Their offense is still potent, and Sean can coach just about anybody. Defensively, this might be my favorite unit in the league. They’re young, energetic, and fly all over the field. You’ll never replace an Aaron Donald—that goes without saying—but all you can do is be yourselves, and the success will follow. Jared Verse has emerged not only as their best defensive player, but also the heartbeat of the entire group. The NFC West should be fun to watch once again this year, and I’ve picked the Rams to win the division. This Sunday, they’ll travel to the city where their season ended back in January.

Eagles (2-0):

Who said winning had to be pretty? I thought the goal was just to win. Didn’t Herm Edwards say, “You play to win the game” all those years ago? In Week 1, the Eagles scored just 24 points and escaped with a four-point win over the Dallas Cowboys. In Week 2, they had to grind out a low-scoring win against the Kansas City Chiefs in a Super Bowl rematch, scoring only 20 points. But right now, they’re 2-0—and that’s all that matters. No, they haven’t looked like the explosive offense from last season. Jalen Hurts’ numbers haven’t been impressive—he’s yet to throw a touchdown or an interception—but that will likely change soon. One major positive: this team has become physical. I’ve loved every second of it. Watching a team challenge another’s toughness will always make my heart smile, and that attitude still matters in football. Now, let’s talk about a man who’s received plenty of criticism—Jalen Carter. Do you see the difference when he’s on the field versus when he’s not? He’s their best defensive player. His presence opens opportunities for the rest of the defense: he draws double-teams, which frees up the edge rushers, gives the linebackers room to roam, and allows the secondary to play more freely. Also, he’s an absolute force of nature when his head is on straight. On Sunday, they’ll host the L.A. Rams in a playoff rematch.

Rams X-Factor: Kobie Turner-

Kobie was a Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist for a reason in 2023. You can clearly see Aaron Donald’s influence on him—and honestly, I’d absorb everything I could from one of the greatest defensive players of all time. Kobie led all rookies in sacks last year with nine and followed that up with eight more. With Jared Verse and Braden Fiske commanding attention off the edges, Kobie benefits greatly—he’s able to break through the interior, and he never gives up on a play. His motor is always running. He’s one of those new-age defensive tackles who will come right at you.

Eagles X-Factor: Andrew Mukuba-

One of the perks of following college football closely is seeing guys grow at the next level. I watched Andrew Mukuba a lot during his time with the Clemson Tigers and later at Texas. He’s a true safety—covers the entire field and has no brakes when chasing the ball-carrier. He also plays with an old-school edge, always looking to make a statement with a big hit. Last week against the Chiefs, Mukuba recorded a huge interception off Patrick Mahomes. He’ll be critical this week against the Rams’ potent passing attack.

Final Thoughts:

These two teams met twice last season. The first matchup took place at SoFi during the regular season, where Saquon Barkley had the game of his life—302 total scrimmage yards (255 rushing, 47 receiving)—in a 17-point Eagles victory. Then in January, they met again in the NFC Divisional Playoffs, and Saquon dominated once more, rushing for 205 yards in a six-point win. This Sunday marks their first meeting since that snowy playoff battle—and both teams enter 2-0. For the Rams, maintaining and improving pass protection will be key against Philly’s stout defensive front. If they want to attack downfield, Stafford will need time. Avoiding sacks and negative plays is critical to staying on schedule. Of course, containing Saquon is a top priority. They can’t afford a repeat of last year. If I’m the Eagles, I try to get Saquon going early—he’s been quiet through two games. Offense doesn’t always have to be explosive; dominating time of possession and sustaining long drives will be key. Also, the Eagles’ outside weapons could have a big day against a Rams secondary dealing with injuries. I’d test them in certain coverage matchups. Jalen Hurts is dangerous when he has time and space. So, winning up front, quick releases, rollouts, and avoiding pressure will all be essential. I see this being a close game that comes down to the fourth quarter.

Prediction:

Eagles 24, Rams 21