Five Key Matchups: Broncos at Eagles
Whether Aqib Talib and the "No-Fly Zone" can put a halt to Carson Wentz's fast start is just one of the key matchups that may decide Sunday's big game in Philadelphia.
As the Eagles have proved themselves to be among the NFL's top teams, second-year quarterback Carson Wentz has been at the middle of it all, leading an efficient passing attack while limiting turnovers. But Aqib Talib and the "No-Fly Zone" are a challenge unlike any other Wentz has faced in his young career. Should the October NFC Offensive Player of the Month take risks throwing to the outside on Talib, he may regret it.
After being named the Broncos' starting quarterback on Wednesday, Brock Osweiler said his focus is simple: "The saying is, 'Ball security is job security.'"On Sunday, that means keeping the ball out of harm's way and out of Jalen Mills' hands. In his second season, Mills has had a knack for getting his mitts on the ball, recording 10 passes defensed and three interceptions, including one pick-six. Osweiler will have to be careful when he attacks the Eagles' secondary, but if he does, he can keep the offense on the field for sustained drives and give the Broncos' the scoring opportunities they need to have on the road.
After failing to record a sack for the first time since the season opener, Von Miller will be hungry to get back in the sack column on Sunday. Like any opponent, right tackle Lane Johnson and the Eagles will be aware of where Von Miller is at all times on Sunday. But keeping an eye on him and stopping him are not the same thing, and Miller will constantly be a threat to blow up any passing or rushing play.
The Broncos' offensive line turned in its most efficient performance of the season in Kansas City, dominating the line of scrimmage for 5.7 yards per carry, but a tougher defensive front awaits them in Philadelphia. Veteran defensive tackle Fletcher Cox has been a disruptive force in the Eagles' attacking scheme, and for the Broncos' offense to have success, Leary will have to keep Cox on his heels.
A week after going up against the NFL's top receiving tight end, the Broncos will face the runner-up, Zach Ertz. Like Travis Kelce, Ertz is a talented receiving threat with great routes and soft hands. He leads the Eagles in receptions and receiving touchdowns with 43 and six, respectively. Darian Stewart and the other Broncos tasked with covering him must be precise, or Ertz could keep the defense on the field for a long day.
