The Philadelphia Eagles enter Week 3 with a surprising 0-2 record, while the New York Jets have gotten off to a 2-0 start thanks to their defense.
The Eagles have had a tough time getting All-Pro running back DeMarco Murray on track, and it won't get any easier against the Jets. Through two games, the Jets have forced 10 turnovers, which is the most in the league. The Eagles will look to get their high-tempo offense going against the Jets on Sunday.
Here are three keys to the game for both the Eagles and Jets.
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1. Attack the short-middle of the field
The Jets like to bring pressure from their defensive backs under new head coach Todd Bowles, and the Eagles can counter with slants, crossing routes and passes to running backs. The Jets don't have inside linebackers suited to cover this area of the field. This strategy will help Sam Bradford get into a rhythm.
2. Challenge the Jets to throw long
Under new offensive coordinator Chan Gailey, the Jets like to spread the field -- often with empty back sets -- and pass the ball on slants and crossing routes. The Eagles need to bring up the safeties to disrupt Ryan Fitzpatrick's short passing rhythm.
3. Focus extra defensive attention on Brandon Marshall
Defensive coordinator Bill Davis doesn't like to use bracket coverage, but he might have to against Marshall this week. In week 1, when he allowed his cornerbacks to operate in single coverage on most snaps, Julio Jones burned them for 141 yards and two touchdowns. With Eric Decker likely out for the Jets, Marshall will be more heavily relied on in the passing game.
1. Stop the run
The Eagles have struggled on the ground, but with Murray, Ryan Mathews, and Darren Sproles in the backfield, the running game can click at any moment. The Jets will need to stop the run against the Eagles and force Sam Bradford to beat them through the air. If they can stop the run, it will give Darrelle Revis and the rest of the secondary a chance to force turnovers.
2. Attack Byron Maxwell
Eric Decker is questionable, and Chris Owusu is expected to miss two weeks, leaving Marshall as the primary target. Eagles cornerback Byron Maxwell has been targeted and hasn't had any success, so if Marshall can beat Maxwell on the outside, Ryan Fitzpatrick should be able to make plays through the air.
3. Cover Zach Ertz with big defensive back
Ertz has shown flashes of his playmaking ability, but he's also been exposed by several teams. Last week, the Cowboys covered Ertz with rookie Byron Jones, a big corner-safety hybrid. Ertz was held to three catches for 17 yards. The Jets have depth at both corner and safety, which will allow Bowles to cover Ertz with an athletic defensive back.
