Julio Jones: The Eagle Killer
“It’s very rare to see someone who’s built like that, who can play like a smaller receiver”
– Bengals Wide Receiver John Ross on Julio Jones, via NFL Network’s Top 100
He’s 6’3″, 220 pounds, and runs a 4.34 40-yard dash. Julio Jones is a rare combination of size, strength, speed, and quickness.
His versatility makes him a headache for opposing defensive coordinators. Julio can line up anywhere on the field; even in the slot.
For the past five seasons, the Falcons’ stud wideout has shown to be incredibly durable. Out of Atlanta’s last 81 games, Jones has started 78 of them.
With the Eagles traveling to Atlanta for a showdown inside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium this Sunday, the gameplan should be simple; slow down Julio Jones.
He will be a point of emphasis for the Birds come game time, but stopping him isn’t an option.
photo via: NBCSports.com
The Eagles have seen plenty of Jones over the years. The last four times Julio Jones faced Philadelphia, he has had fantastic outings:
2018: 10 receptions — 169 yards — 0 TD
2017: 9 receptions — 101 yards — 0 TD
2016: 10 receptions — 135 yards — 0 TD
2015: 9 receptions — 141 yards — 2 TD
In total, Julio Jones has tallied 38 receptions for 546 yards and two scores against the Eagles in his past four matchups.
The bad news is, it doesn’t seem like it’ll be any different Sunday. The Eagles secondary allowed Case Keenum and a young Redskins offense rack up 380 yards and three scores through the air. Matt Ryan and company should put up some numbers.
The good news is, the Eagles don’t need to defeat Julio Jones to defeat the Atlanta Falcons.
Jones may have had exceptional performances against the Birds recently, but Philadelphia won three out of those four games displayed above.
Come Sunday night, all eyes will be on each team’s respective number 11, and it may just come down to which star can shine brighter.
Photo via: barraques.cat All statistics via ProFootballReference.com
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