If you thought the Atlanta Falcons’ playcalling at the end of their loss was bad, just wait until you see what the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense had to say about it.
The Eagles’ goal-line stand in the final minute of their 15-10 win over the Falcons in Saturday’s NFC divisional playoff game was the difference. Not only did a shovel pass on second down go terribly, but Philly was well prepared for Atlanta’s rollout on fourth down, which left the Falcons without any good options.
Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins said after the game that they knew what was coming all along.
When did the Eagles identify the play Falcons ran on fourth down?
Malcolm Jenkins: "Probably before they broke the huddle"
— Gregg Rosenthal (@greggrosenthal) January 14, 2018
Safety Rodney McLeod also knew what was coming and thought it was a poor playcall.
#Eagles S Rodney McLeod on the #Falcons' 4th-&-goal call from the 2: “It is surprising. I was like, ‘There’s no way they’re going to run this play.’ And as soon as I saw the tight end come over, I shouted it out. Yeah, I wouldn’t expect them to cut off half the field like that."
— Mike Sielski (@MikeSielski) January 14, 2018
Even with the Eagles knowing what was coming, the Falcons still made it close. Matt Ryan’s pass went through Julio Jones’ hands:
“jUlIo JoNeS iS tHe bEsT wR In tHe nFL” pic.twitter.com/KzsojMHOnr
— 360°FantasyFootball (@360FFB) January 14, 2018
The Eagles were motivated for the game thanks to their underdog status. Aside from that, they seemed extremely well prepared for the game.
