Game Preview: Eagles look for 4th-straight win facing Jacksonville Jaguars

The Philadelphia Eagles take on the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday as they aim for their fourth consecutive victory.

The team will don their iconic Kelly Green jerseys for the first of two scheduled appearances this season. Adding to the excitement, former star running back LeSean McCoy will be inducted into the Eagles’ Hall of Fame during halftime of Sunday’s matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

However, beneath the fanfare and celebrations, there’s still a crucial game to be won. The Jaguars, coached by former Eagles head coach Doug Pederson, are 2-6 but determined to disrupt Philadelphia’s momentum. With three of their losses coming in the last 18 seconds — two on walk-off plays — Jacksonville remains a formidable opponent.

Key Storylines for Eagles Fans

Injuries Pose Challenges Yet Again

The Eagles have become adept at managing injuries this season, showcasing their depth on the way to a 5-2 record. The absence of left tackle Jordan Mailata has prompted Fred Johnson, who impressed during last week’s win over Cincinnati, to step in once more.

The offense will also miss tight end Dallas Goedert, sidelined with a hamstring injury, leaving Grant Calcaterra and Jack Stoll to shoulder the load. On the defensive side, cornerback Darius Slay is out with a groin injury, opening the door for Isaiah Rodgers to shine. Rodgers, who joined the Eagles in 2023 after being released by Indianapolis, proved his worth last week with a crucial tipped pass that C.J. Gardner-Johnson intercepted late in the game.

Meanwhile, the Jaguars will play without left guard Ezra Cleveland and star wide receiver Christian Kirk. They also have several players listed as questionable, potentially impacting their game plan.

>> Eagles Injury Report: Darius Slay’s status for Week 9 vs. Jaguars revealed

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Trevor Lawrence: The Defensive Target

Trevor Lawrence, known for his strong arm and mobility, presents a significant challenge for the Eagles’ defense. Despite Jacksonville’s injury woes, Lawrence’s skill set makes him a constant threat. This season, he has recorded 11 touchdown passes and four interceptions, along with 105 rushing yards, showcasing his ability to extend plays outside the pocket.

Linebacker Zack Baun spoke highly of the Jaguars’ signal-caller: “Big guy, strong, can throw from any angle. If he has a chance to run, he’s going to take it and hurt you.”

The Eagles’ strategy will focus on winning early downs and pressuring Lawrence with a disciplined, aggressive pass rush. Although he’s only been sacked 16 times this season, Lawrence’s ability to connect on deep passes—such as the eight throws of 20-plus yards against Green Bay last week—demands close attention.

Turnovers: The Deciding Factor

Winning the turnover battle has been pivotal for the Eagles, who have not turned the ball over in their last three games — all victories. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has spearheaded this trend, excelling within Kellen Moore’s offensive system and spreading the ball effectively to maintain a balanced attack.

In contrast, turnovers have been a persistent issue for Lawrence, who leads the NFL in giveaways with 65 since 2021, including 22 lost fumbles. If the Eagles can capitalize on this vulnerability, they’ll significantly increase their chances of securing another win.

This weekend promises more than just pageantry; it’s an opportunity for the Eagles to strengthen their position and keep the winning streak alive while basking in the legacy of past and present heroes.