Upcoming Matchup: Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Philadelphia Eagles

The Jacksonville Jaguars, currently with a record of 2-6, will face off against the Philadelphia Eagles, who stand at 5-2, this Sunday at 4:05 p.m. EST, airing on CBS. According to BetMGM, the Eagles are favored by 7.5 points in this matchup.

In terms of performance against the spread, both teams have had their ups and downs, with the Jaguars at 4-4 and the Eagles slightly better at 4-3. Historically, the Eagles have a slight edge in their rivalry, leading the series 4-3. In their last encounter on October 2, 2022, Philadelphia emerged victorious with a score of 29-21, buoyed by a standout performance from Miles Sanders, who rushed for 135 yards and two touchdowns.

Last week saw the Jaguars suffer a narrow 30-27 defeat at home against the Green Bay Packers, while the Eagles secured a commanding 37-17 win at Cincinnati.

When examining team statistics, the Eagles’ offense ranks 8th overall, placing 2nd in rushing, while their passing game is ranked 20th. Additionally, they sit 10th in scoring. The Eagles’ defensive squad follows closely, rated 7th overall, with a strong rush defense at 8th, and pass defense at 10th, contributing to a scoring defense ranked 7th. In contrast, the Jaguars’ offensive performance is ranked 14th overall, with their rushing and passing games sitting at 16th each, while their scoring is 21st. Defensively, the Jaguars struggle significantly, placed 29th overall, with pass defense at 31st.

Turnover differentials indicate the Jaguars have a slight disadvantage at minus-5, while the Eagles are at minus-4.

Highlighting key players, Saquon Barkley has emerged as a crucial asset for the Eagles since his off-season signing for $26 million guaranteed. The former No. 2 overall draft pick has established himself, averaging 109.4 rushing yards per game, ranking him 2nd in the NFL.

For the Jaguars, rookie Walker Little has finally earned a starting tackle position, an important step before hitting free agency. Since being drafted in 2021, he’s participated in 48 games, starting 18, but has yet to meet the high expectations set for him. Little’s development will be crucial for the Jaguars considering the recent trade of Cam Robinson.

A key matchup to watch will be between Jaguars’ rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. and the Philadelphia secondary. Thomas has had a strong start to his career, recording 33 receptions for 573 yards and five touchdowns, tying for the sixth most TD receptions in the league. The Eagles’ secondary, anchored by Pro Bowl corner Darius Slay, ranks 10th in the NFL.

Injuries could play a significant role in this game. For the Jaguars, running back Travis Etienne is recovering from a hamstring injury but was limited in practice this week. Guard Ezra Cleveland and Brandon Scherff are dealing with injuries, and wide receiver Christian Kirk will not return this season after breaking his collarbone. The Eagles face their own challenges, as tight end Dallas Goedert, who has been sidelined for two games with a hamstring injury, also did not participate in practice.

Historically, the Eagles have the upper hand playing against the Jaguars in Philadelphia, having a 2-1 record at home. Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson brings a special connection to this game, having previously coached the Eagles for five seasons, notably leading them to their first Super Bowl victory in 2017.

Statistically, the Jaguars find themselves struggling defensively, ranking low in total defense at 29th, pass defense at 31st, and points allowed at 29th. Meanwhile, points of interest for the Eagles include quarterback Jalen Hurts, who has shown impressive consistency, completing 71.2% of his passes for 614 yards and four touchdowns in the last three games. This season, Hurts has amassed a total of 15 touchdowns, ranking him 5th in the league.

Additionally, wide receiver A.J. Brown leads the Eagles’ receiving corps with three touchdowns and 408 yards, despite missing three games. Philadelphia’s right tackle, Lane Johnson, has yet to allow a sack this season. The team will be sporting their Kelly Green throwback jerseys for the game, adding to the excitement.

In fantasy football, consider starting Philadelphia wide receiver DeVonta Smith, who has already caught touchdowns in three games this season. He showcased his skills last game against the Bengals with six catches for 85 yards, including a long 45 yard touchdown. He will be going up against a Jaguars pass defense that ranks 31st in the league.