Surprisingly, the Washington Redskins (2-0) are alone atop the NFC East after the first two weeks and the Cowboys, Eagles and Giants, each at 1-1, have shown some glaring weaknesses: Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys have been unable to run the ball, averaging just 54.5 yards a game. Running back Felix Jones is a dynamic playmaker in the backfield, but that has not translated when he’s been the feature back. He entered the season averaging 5.3 yards a carry, but Jones is only gaining 2.7 yards per rush this season. Defensively, Dallas allowed an NFL-worst 33 touchdown passes last year and did little to improve its struggling secondary in the offseason. Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez threw for 335 yards against the Cowboys in Week 1, just one yard shy of matching his career high.
Philadelphia Eagles
In order for the Eagles’ offense to be dynamic, quarterback Michael Vick needs to stay healthy. He left Sunday night’s game with a concussion and missed four games last season. When Vick has been on the field this year, he’s looked uncomfortable against the blitz. Philadelphia’s defense has been susceptible against the run with undersized rookie Casey Matthews (232 pounds) starting at middle linebacker. The Eagles allowed a 47-yard touchdown run on their first defensive play of the season and have allowed an average of 146 rushing yards a game.
New York Giants
Injuries have depleted the Giants’ defense and the secondary has suffered the most. Cornerback Aaron Ross was thrust into the starting lineup, but played so poorly Monday night that he was benched. Quarterbacks Rex Grossman and Sam Bradford both threw for more than 300 yards against the Giants. New York’s offense has struggled in short-yardage situations and have converted just 24 percent of its third downs. With Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham at wide receiver, the Giants shouldn’t be in the bottom half of the league in passing yards. Quarterback Eli Manning needs to play better.
– Jeffrey Tomik
