All of a Sudden, a Playoff Run Isn’t so Crazy
Through 13 games last year, the Eagles had an identical record of 6-7, with the 2018 team coming off of a heartbreaking overtime loss to the Dallas Cowboys in the infamous “no clear recovery” game.
This year, the Eagles get to 6-7 via an overtime win over the New York Giants. But apart from that, what’s important is that all the Eagles need to do this time around is win 3 games. Last year, the Eagles needed to win out and then have the Vikings lose 2 of their last 4.
Winning out isn’t going to be easy, especially with the season in all likelihood coming down to a week 16 matchup with the Cowboys, but it’s not an insane idea. If this team does get in though, they will absolutely make some noise.
Likely Playoff Path
Photo: Heather Khalifa/Philadelphia Inquirer
So, let’s say this team does what it’s supposed to, defies the odds, and makes the playoffs. Who do they play and do they stand a chance? Absolutely they do. Besides the fact that the playoffs are anyone’s game, consider these likely opponents. In the wild card round, the Eagles would probably host the Seahawks or 49ers.
With the Seahawks holding a tiebreaker over the Vikings, they would hold the tie-break for the 5 seed. However, with the Seahawks also holding a tie-breaker over the 49ers, they would win the division should they win out (this would include beating the 49ers).
Let’s analyze.
The Seahawks have already visited the Linc once this year, picking up the win in a 17-9 game. The defense held Russell Wilson’s offense to one of its lowest outputs all year, however, the offense the only mustered 362 yards, 1 touchdown in garbage time, and turned it over 5 times. This won’t be an easy win by any stretch, especially considering the injuries this team is nursing, but it’s not impossible. Russell Wilson is 2-4 in away playoff games, and if the offense can play the way they did in the 2nd half against the Giants, more than 9 points will be scored the second time around.
As for the 49ers, they will be far more formidable, but don’t forget their origin: San Francisco. Imagine them coming over from that beautiful bay area weather to play in the frigid January weather over here in South Philadelphia.
If the Eagles get past their divisional-round opponent, they will end up facing off against the team that wins NFC West, possibly the Packers, or even the Saints. Thinking too far ahead? Maybe.
One thing is for sure: this team isn’t waving the white flag just yet.
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