4. Quality reps for depth on defense
There are going to be some starters on the field, and we are likely to see some of the younger veterans playing. But this is a day for the depth on defense, so focus on players like defensive tackles Byron Young and Robinson, Jeremiah Trotter Jr. at linebacker, Sydney Brown at safety, Jakorian Bennett at cornerback, and others.
5. This is still an NFC East rivalry, so be ready
Washington expressed its displeasure after the first meeting between the teams after the Eagles converted a two-point conversion, so there is even less love lost between these squads. Washington is going to be playing a lot of its reserves and remember, this is a showcase for every player on the field to put something on tape for every team in the league to consider.
6. What milestones are within reach?
Running back Tank Bigsby has 42 carries this season, but he’s averaging a whopping 6.4 yards per carry, so can he keep that number high with the potential of a high-volume day on Sunday? Saquon Barkley holds the franchise record for highest yards-per-carry average (5.8, set last season) in a single season, just to provide some perspective. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith is 44 yards away from a third 1,000-yard receiving season, so is there a way to get some balls to him early and then get him off the field if he’s active? The defense is third in the NFL in points per game allowed (18.8), so would another incredible performance by this unit give the Eagles a chance to vault to the top in 2025? And this: The Eagles are first in the NFL in offensive red zone touchdown efficiency, scoring touchdowns on 70.7 percent of their trips inside the opposing 20-yard lines, and that’s the best touchdown percentage the offense has had since at least the 2000 season.
