Gameday – PHI at NE

The season is finally upon us. We’ve waited a long time to see this team in action. They’ll start the 2023 journey in rainy New England. You’d rather have pristine conditions when you’re the better team, but Nick Sirianni won’t let the weather be an excuse.

Expectations are sky high for this team (see my prediction here). It should be fun to see how they handle the challenge of a tough schedule. You know Bill Belichick will have some creative defensive ideas on how to handle Jalen Hurts and the offense. Hurts can burn him by making unexpected plays, but the Eagles staff can do their part by making good adjustments.

The Pats are honoring Tom Brady. That could give the team a bit of an emotional boost, but he hasn’t played with them in a few years so the roster isn’t full of his former teammates. There will be a lot of energy in the stadium.

A couple of surprises with the inactives.

Today's inactives #PHIvsNE pic.twitter.com/txDbCLTdeI

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 10, 2023

I thought Penny would be active and part of the rushing attack. The coaches are going to lean on D’Andre Swift and Kenny Gainwell, with Boston Scott as the KOR and a role player.

Steen is inactive and Fred Johnson is active. Johnson could be the backup LT. I did not anticipate that.

Those aren’t huge moves, but are interesting.

WR DeVante Parker, LG Cole Strange, RG Mike Onwenu, OLB Anfernee Jennings ,DT Sam Roberts and CB Shaun Wade are all INACTIVE for the #Patriots today. Taking it slow with Onwenu. Not ideal, regardless.

— Mike Giardi (@MikeGiardi) September 10, 2023

The Pats OL will be missing multiple starters. The Eagles have a distinct advantage and should be able to get after Mac Jones. Expect a lot of quick throws by the Pats to try and negate the rush.

No matter what happens today, remember that the NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. We’re in for a long ride. Load up on PBR and Funyuns and get ready for a fun season.

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