The Philadelphia Eagles recently showcased their formidable physical prowess with a decisive victory over the Baltimore Ravens in an NFL showdown that took place in Baltimore. This matchup not only highlighted the Eagles' dominance at the line of scrimmage but also solidified their reputation as one of the league's most physically imposing teams.
Physical Dominance on Display
Under the guidance of Head Coach Nick Sirianni, the Eagles have carved out an identity that is rooted in physicality, a style that was on full display against the Ravens. "They had to match ours. We know we are a physical team, [and] we know they are a physical team. That was our message going in, that they have to match our physicality," Sirianni said following the game.
Throughout the contest, the Eagles emphasized their strength and physical style of play, especially in crucial moments. Saquon Barkley, a key contributor, had a significant impact with a 25-yard touchdown run, notable for setting the score at 21-12. His earlier 14-yard run also came during a pivotal point in the game, further instilling a sense of momentum in favor of Philadelphia.
Jalen Hurts added to the Eagles' ground game with an 11-yard run, showcasing his dual-threat capability. The team outgained the Ravens 86 to 46 yards during critical phases of the game, shutting out their opponents 10-0 at a point where the game balance was seemingly in their hands, not counting Baltimore's final possession.
Unyielding Rushing Attack
The statistics from the game underscored the Eagles' superiority on the ground. Philadelphia amassed 77 rushing yards compared to Baltimore’s 33, with the team averaging 5.1 yards per carry. This feat was instrumental in keeping the Ravens' defense on their heels throughout the matchup.
Philadelphia's relentless rushing attack is no anomaly; since Week 6, the Eagles lead the NFL in rushing yards per game with an impressive average of 206.5. Their efficiency is further highlighted by their fourth-place ranking in the league for yards per carry, also at 5.1 in the same period.
Against the Ravens, the Eagles achieved their highest rushing yards total of 140, which was the most allowed by Baltimore's defense this season. Additionally, the Eagles churned out the highest yards per carry against the Ravens this season at 4.2, underscoring their dominant offensive performance.
Philadelphia linebacker Zack Baun succinctly captured the team's ethos, stating, "Our identity is physical. And if you're going to challenge that, then we’re going to show up and be more physical." This mentality was evident in every play as the Eagles pressured and outmuscled their opponents, leaving a mark that went beyond the numbers on the scoreboard.
A Battle of Attrition
A.J. Brown, a prominent wide receiver for the Eagles, echoed the sentiment of physical tenacity that has become synonymous with the team's approach. "Whenever you play a physical team, and you call yourself a physical team, you find out who's going to be physical, and who's going to quit," he observed. Brown's remarks resonated in what was largely perceived as a battle of attrition.
"Two teams bumped heads today. And, I think today, we were the tougher team," Brown asserted, reflecting on the contest as one where the Eagles imposed their will and established their superiority through sheer force and determination.
The Eagles' victory over the Ravens not only boosted their confidence but also affirmed their status as one of the most physically dominant teams in the NFL. As the season progresses, they continue to set benchmarks for others to emulate, asserting that when it comes to a physical contest, they are well prepared to match and exceed any challenge on the field.