Eagles-Panthers player matchups to watch in Week 14 originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
The Eagles (10-2) are hosting the Carolina Panthers (3-9) at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday afternoon.
Here are some key matchups to watch:
Saquon Barkley vs. Panthers run defense
Barkley is right in the mix of the MVP conversation this year and for good reason. He’s just one rushing yard shy of the 1,500-yard mark and is still on pace to break the NFL’s single-season rushing record. Last week, he faced the NFL’s top-ranked run defense entering that game and toughed it out for 107 yards on the ground. This week? He’ll face the NFL’s worst run defense. The Panthers have given up 166.8 yards per game this season, which ranks 32nd in the NFL. They are also giving up 4.8 yards per pop, which ranks 27th in the NFL.
The Panthers played tough and lost a close one to the Buccaneers last week 26-23 but they gave up a season-high 236 yards on the ground in that game. Bucs running back Bucky Irving had 25 carries for 152 yards and a touchdown in that one and was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week. In their two games since getting back from their bye week, the Panthers have given up the most yards after contact per carry (4.4) in the NFL. And their explosive play rate of 18.5% is the fourth highest in the NFL.
And for the season, the Panthers have given up 1.96 yards before contact per attempt, which ranks 28th in the NFL. The Eagles’ offensive line has been so good at creating giant holes this season and they will have an opportunity to do that on Sunday. And even when they don’t, Barkley should be able to create after contact. It’s a recipe for another big rushing performance.
Jordan Mailata vs. Jadeveon Clowney
At one point this season, Chuck Harris led the Panthers in sacks but then he was waived and claimed by the Eagles. The Panthers’ new leader in sacks is a familiar name: Jadeveon Clowney. Clowney is 31 now and the former No. 1 overall pick is…
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