The Washington Football Team’s defense has struggled over the last two weeks. After playing well over the previous six weeks, the defense has combined to allow 1,016 total yards in back-to-back losses to the Eagles and Cowboys.
Next up for Washington is a rematch against Philadelphia. Remember, the Eagles initially exposed the Washington defense with 519 total yards in Week 15. However, Washington missed several key defenders in that loss due to COVID-19.
The primary catalyst for the Eagles’ success in Week 15 was running back Miles Sanders. Sanders carried the ball 18 times for 131 yards, averaging over seven yards per attempt. His success in the running game made life easier on quarterback Jalen Hurts, who was outstanding in the win over Washington.
In a Week 16 win over the Giants, Sanders broke his hand. While he will not go on injured reserve, he will miss Sunday’s game at Washington.
Miles Sanders broke his hand. He's not going to IR because team hopes to have him back this season. But he'll be out this week.
— Zach Berman (@ZBerm) December 27, 2021
Another Philadelphia running back, Jordan Howard, is also battling an injury. That means Washington could see the combination of Boston Scott and Kenneth Gainwell Sunday.
While Sanders missing the game could favor Washington, it doesn’t matter who lines up in the Eagles’ backfield Sunday if Philly’s offensive line opens holes like it did in Week 15.
