3 ways the Eagles can overcome Wentz's injury
Carson Wentz was confirmed to have suffered a torn ACL on Sunday, meaning the Philadelphia Eagles will have to go the rest of the season without the MVP front-runner.
It's a devastating blow to a team with Super Bowl aspirations, but it doesn't have to be a fatal one.
Here are three ways the Eagles can overcome the loss of their starting quarterback.
Free Foles
Unlike many other teams in the league, the Eagles have a backup quarterback that elicits some level of confidence. Nick Foles will take over starting duties, and he's been here before.
In 2013, Foles replaced an injured Michael Vick and went on to have a Pro Bowl season, going 8-2 as a starter. His 27 touchdowns to two interceptions stood up as the best touchdown-to-interception ratio in league history until last season.
However, this is 2017. And this season, the Eagles are 11-2 with a division title already sewn up.
That allows them the luxury of using the next three weeks to ensure Foles is as comfortable as possible in the offense for the upcoming playoff run.
Instead of focusing on winning home-field advantage through the NFC playoffs or securing a first-round bye, the Eagles should give Foles as much rein as possible when they visit the New York Giants and host the Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys. He should have equal say in the playbook and offensive game plan, and he should be given license to throw and make mistakes. Philadelphia may not win those games, but it's the only way he'll form a strong enough rapport with his linemen, backs, and receivers to lead the team come playoff time.
Rely on running game
Philadelphia had the foresight to assemble a strong stable of running backs. Via the draft, free agency, and trade, the Eagles own a trio of rushers capable of guiding the group.
LeGarrette Blount is first on the team in rushing with 696 yards, but rookie Corey Clement owns the most rushing touchdowns with four, and Jay Ajayi has averaged 7 yards per carry since coming to Philly on a deadline-day deal.
The Eagles' offense can flow through the running game and either allow one of the aforementioned rushers to take the lead role or alternate them depending on matchups.
Opposing defenses will likely load up on the run and force Foles to win games with his arm. In order for the Eagles to have playoff success, they'll need the threat of both the run and pass.
Lean on 3-QB support system
The Eagles have the benefit of employing three former quarterbacks on their coaching staff. Head coach Doug Pederson, offensive coordinator Frank Reich, and quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo have all played the position. Pederson and Reich share 24 years of playing experience in the NFL.
Together, they've helped mold Wentz into an MVP candidate in just his second season. Now, they're tasked with getting Foles up to speed for the stretch run.
Six years into his career, Foles is likely a finished product, but his coaching staff can refine the offense around him.
"I'm absolutely ready. That's why I'm here. ... Coach Pederson showed a lot of confidence with me and I have a long history with him. He knows I can go out and play so we'll see what happens," Foles said Sunday.
Taking advantage of these three strengths and strategies will help ensure the Eagles' regular-season success continues into the postseason, even without Wentz.
(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)