PHILADELPHIA — Alex Smith, Philip Rivers and RGIII put up big numbers against the Philadelphia Eagles.
There’s no telling what Peyton Manning will do.
The Eagles (1-2) are allowing yards passing at an alarming rate. They’ve given up 1,021 yards in the air so far, an average of 340 per game. Only San Diego and Washington are worse.
With Manning and the Broncos up next, the defense has to sort out its issues quickly.
“It’s a huge challenge,” coach Chip Kelly said. “He’s one of the all-time great quarterbacks in the history of the league, not just this season. He’s done it for such a long time. He prides himself on his preparation. I think if you’re a competitor, you’re looking forward to it.”
A revamped secondary that includes three new starters isn’t the only problem. The front seven’s inability to pressure quarterbacks consistently makes it difficult for the backfield to hold the coverage.
Eventually, a receiver comes open.
“Pass defense is everybody,” Kelly said. “It’s generating the pass rush, not letting the quarterback feel comfortable, being close in coverage. It’s a combination of all those things.”
After allowing 33 touchdown passes last season, the Eagles replaced both starting cornerbacks. High-priced former Pro Bowl players Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie were replaced by Cary Williams and Bradley Fletcher. Patrick Chung replaced Kurt Coleman as one of the starting safeties and Nate Allen returned, though he’s splitting time with rookie Earl Wolff.
“We have to go back to the drawing board,” Williams said, “but we don’t give up.”
