With their backs against the wall, the Philadelphia Eagles delivered a clutch performance when they needed it the most. The team defeated the Dallas Cowboys in overtime to keep control of the NFC East. While the win was nice, improved performances from Sam Bradford and company were the most welcomed part. While the offense has looked questionable at times, the run game and passing game matched up, but could injuries hurt that in the future?
The Eagles struggled in the first quarter and things looked worrisome as improved receiver Riley Cooper left the game with a foot injury. Cooper has turned into a big-play threat over players like Jordan Matthews and Josh Huff who have been struggling this season. According to CSNPhilly.com, Cooper left in the first quarter with what appeared to be a foot or ankle injury and did not return. His status is unclear going forward while it opened the door for improvement from other players.
The injury to Cooper highlights the injury to Nelson Agholor. The rookie receiver was a surprising inactive in Week 9 after the Eagles stressed they wanted to get him more active in the offense. The injuries to both Agholor and Cooper allowed Matthews to have a big game after suffering with drops over the past few weeks. He along with Zach Ertz made big moves for Bradford who played well against the Cowboys.
The biggest gain for the Eagles was the return of the dominant rushing attack. Head coach Chip Kelly stayed true to his word to keep things even. DeMarco Murray had 18 carries for 83 yards and a touchdown while also getting six catches for 78 yards. Mathews who has been limited with a groin injury had 11 carries for 67 yards and a touchdown. Both running backs stressed that they like the rotation Kelly has planned out as the coach has come under fire for the split. Mathews made it clear that he does not mind the backup role.
"I've always split carries, ever since I came into the league," Mathews said, via ESPN.com. "I was always in a running back rotation. It doesn't bother me. [Murray] has done a lot of great things in his career to get where he's at."
The Eagles want the momentum to keep up as they prepare to play the Dolphins in Week 10. The progress from Bradford was a good sign as the quarterback stepped up when needed the most.
"I think Sam is continuing to improve," Kelly said, via ESPN.com. "I thought he was really accurate in his throws today. He put the ball on guys in the right spot. I've always had confidence in Sam."
