The Philadelphia Eagles aim to extend their winning streak to eight games as they face the Baltimore Ravens in what promises to be a high-intensity showdown on Sunday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Eagles ML (+140) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Eagles vs. Ravens
Sunday, December 01, 2024 – 04:25 PM ET at M&T Bank Stadium
Barkley’s Brilliance Fuels Eagles’ Streak
Saquon Barkley is coming off a record-setting performance in Philadelphia’s 37-20 victory over the Rams on Sunday. His two second-half touchdown runs of 70 and 72 yards highlighted a jaw-dropping 255-yard rushing effort, the most in Eagles history and the ninth-highest single-game total in NFL history.
Barkley also racked up 302 total yards, becoming the 12th player in NFL history to reach that milestone.
In his first season with the Eagles, Barkley leads the NFL with 1,392 rushing yards and has delivered seven 100-yard rushing games, both league bests. His 9.8 yards per carry against Los Angeles smashed franchise records and set a new standard for rushing performances against the Rams.
Complementing Barkley’s efforts, A.J. Brown caught six passes for 109 yards and a touchdown, while Jalen Hurts completed 15 of 22 passes for 179 yards. The Eagles’ explosive offense turned a 13-7 halftime lead into a dominant second-half showing.
Ravens Ride Balanced Attack to Victory
Baltimore is coming off a hard-fought 30-23 win over the Chargers on Monday, thanks to Lamar Jackson’s two passing touchdowns and a rushing score. Derrick Henry added 140 yards on 24 carries, anchoring a run game that amassed 212 yards. Justice Hill’s 51-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter sealed the Ravens’ third win in four games.
Baltimore’s offense showed resilience by overcoming an early 10-0 deficit, scoring on five straight possessions. Jackson, who leads the league in total yards, completed 16 of 22 passes for 177 yards and showcased his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback.
The Ravens’ defense also stood strong despite missing leading tackler Roquan Smith, holding the Chargers to 285 total yards.
Keys to the Game
Barkley’s ability to break long runs will be a critical challenge for Baltimore, especially with the potential absence of Smith. The Ravens must focus on disciplined gap assignments and tackling fundamentals to avoid being gashed by Barkley’s explosiveness.
Containing Jackson’s mobility and ability to extend plays will be a priority for Philadelphia’s defense. A disciplined pass rush will be essential to limit Jackson’s impact, as he thrives on improvisation and finding mismatches downfield.
Brown’s consistency as a big-play receiver adds another dimension to Philadelphia’s offense. Baltimore’s secondary must disrupt his timing with Hurts and minimize yards after the catch to avoid giving up backbreaking plays.
Henry’s physical running style, paired with Hill’s speed, gives Baltimore a balanced attack. Philadelphia’s defensive line must clog running lanes and limit second-level gains to keep the Ravens from controlling the clock.
Both teams excel at capitalizing on mistakes. The Eagles’ quick-strike ability and the Ravens’ opportunistic defense could swing momentum. Winning the turnover battle will be pivotal in this contest.
NFL Pick
The Eagles’ explosive offense, led by Barkley and Brown, has the edge in firepower, but the Ravens’ balanced approach and ability to control the pace make them a formidable opponent.
Expect Philadelphia to strike early, with Barkley setting the tone on the ground. Baltimore will adjust, relying on Jackson’s creativity and their rushing attack to stay in the game.
Ultimately, the Eagles’ big-play potential and Barkley’s ability to exploit defensive lapses will prove decisive in a tightly contested battle.
NFL Pick: Eagles ML (+140) at Bet365
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