Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Eagles are set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Tampa this Sunday. Both teams enter the game with a 2-1 record, adding an extra layer of significance to the matchup. The Eagles aim to improve their record to 3-1 before heading into their bye week.

Tampa Bay's defense is known for its pressure tactics under Head Coach Todd Bowles. Eagles Offensive Coordinator Kellen Moore acknowledges the challenge ahead, stating, "Todd is always going to have his different flavors... It's not necessarily whether he won or lost, it's going to be a different flavor and different challenge each and every week."

Injuries will play a significant role in this game. The Buccaneers will be without safety Antoine Winfield Jr. and defensive lineman Calijah Kancey. The Eagles are missing wide receiver DeVonta Smith, while A.J. Brown (hamstring) and right tackle Lane Johnson (concussion) remain questionable.

Philadelphia showcased its depth last week when multiple players stepped up due to injuries during their win over New Orleans. Wide receivers Parris Campbell and Jahan Dotson played crucial roles, as did Fred Johnson and Tyler Steen on the offensive line.

Tampa Bay's wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin pose a significant threat to Philadelphia's secondary. Rookie Quinyon Mitchell will need to perform at his best against these experienced players.

Both teams' running games will also be pivotal in determining the outcome. Saquon Barkley leads the NFL with 351 rushing yards for the Eagles, who average 167.3 rushing yards per game, ranking third in the league. In contrast, Tampa Bay averages just 91 rushing yards per game.

Turnovers could also be decisive; Philadelphia currently has a -4 turnover ratio but managed timely takeaways in recent games.

Finally, red zone performance may tip the scales as both teams have similar stats: Philadelphia scores touchdowns on 42.86 percent of its red zone possessions while Tampa Bay allows touchdowns at that same rate.