(Photo: WSYR)
Intriguing Game- NFL, Week 17
Philadelphia Eagles at Buffalo Bills
Eagles (10-5):
I’ve been all over the place with them, and as I’ve said throughout the year, it’s felt like 2023 all over again—meaning the play hasn’t matched their record at all. In certain aspects, they’ve reminded me of the Kansas City Chiefs, but the difference is the Eagles will make the playoffs and the other won’t. They remind me of the Chiefs because they feel they can flip the switch and play their best football when it matters—and that approach won’t always work. Around this time last year, the Philadelphia Eagles were on a tear en route to their second Super Bowl title due to a physical defense and a balanced offense. This year, when the defense has its head in the game, it’s been one of the best units in the league. I’ve mentioned before that they’ve graduated into a team that can challenge your manhood. I still have questions about their offense and whether the camaraderie within the unit is still present. I remember after their game against the Cowboys in November, I told Cole Johnson they’d be a much better offense if they featured Dallas Goedert more—and he agreed. This Sunday, the Eagles head to Orchard Park for a big interconference battle.
Bills (11-4):
That game in Cleveland had “trap game” written all over it, and it went exactly as I anticipated. I knew the Browns would force them to earn it and that nothing would be given. About a month ago, their chances of capturing another AFC East title looked bleak, if not impossible. Now, they not only have a shot at the division, but also a chance to clinch the top seed in the AFC playoffs if they win out and get some help. I have to say this, and it comes from a place of honesty: why can’t they put together a full 60-minute football game? The Bills are far too talented to falter the way they have over the past few games, and this dates back to Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens. They struggled in the first half against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 7 and were down 17 against the Patriots in Week 15, yet still found ways to battle back. This shows they’re never out of a game and can will themselves to victory. If Matthew Stafford weren’t having the season he’s having, Josh Allen would once again be my pick for league MVP. Truthfully, where would they be without him? On Sunday, the Bills welcome the defending Super Bowl champions to town.
Eagles X-Factor: Nakobe Dean
He’s the heartbeat of this Eagles defense, and his presence makes all the difference. When facing Josh Allen and this Bills offense, the middle of the field is constantly under attack—either through the air or with Allen taking off when plays break down. Nakobe has the speed and instincts to act as a spy on Josh Allen while still recovering in space. He’s also the anchor of the Eagles’ run defense, and the Bills will do everything they can to establish James Cook while using Allen on designed quarterback runs. If Nakobe can stay disciplined, it bodes well for the Eagles defense to have a strong day.
Bills X-Factor: Terrel Bernard
I rave about this guy every chance I get, and truthfully, he’s the Bills’ most important defensive player. I’ve referred to Bernard as a “jack of all trades” because he can play in the box, drop back into coverage, and use his speed and instincts to close running lanes. The Eagles offense thrives on slants and crossers, yet Bernard is a true middle-of-the-field eraser. His range allows Buffalo to comfortably play zone coverage. He’s a tone-setter and their most versatile defender in my eyes and if he’s flying around early and making his presence felt, it’ll force Jalen Hurts to speed up his decision-making.
Final Thoughts:
I remember the last meeting between these two teams back in 2023—a rainy Sunday afternoon in South Philadelphia where the Eagles escaped with a three-point overtime victory. Over two years later, they meet again for a heavyweight showdown in Orchard Park. I’ll be watching the ground game for both teams. I see Saquon Barkley having a big day against a Bills run defense that has struggled all season, while Buffalo enters this matchup with the league’s top rushing attack, averaging 158 yards per game. For Philly, it starts up front. They must control the trenches, impose their will early, establish the power run, and keep Hurts protected. If the Eagles win in the trenches, they control tempo, keep Josh Allen on the sideline, and force Buffalo out of rhythm. Defensively, the Eagles must erase the middle of the field, but discipline is key. Maintain rush-lane integrity, don’t over-pursue, and make Allen beat you from the pocket. On the other side, can the Bills take away the middle of the field? This Eagles offense lives on slants and crossers. Buffalo’s linebackers and safeties must limit those throws and force Philly to win outside the numbers. Make the Eagles one-dimensional. If the Bills shut down the run, Hurts will press, and the offense loses balance. Finally, control Hurts’ mobility. Use Bernard as a spy and force him to win as a passer. This is going to be a fun one.
