Part of the reason the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense has propelled them to Super Bowl LVII is their efficiency in the red zone. Philadelphia’s success in the red zone creates a major mismatch against a Kansas City Chiefs defense that can’t stop a nosebleed with their backs to the goal line.

The Eagles rank third in the NFL in red zone efficiency, coming away with touchdowns on nearly 69 percent of their trips in 2022. Even bette, the Chiefs’ defense ranks 30th in the NFL in red zone defense.

#Eagles Red Zone Offense: 3rd in NFL
Chiefs Red Zone Defense: 30th in NFL

Eagles have to take advantage and get touchdowns, not field goals, when they get inside the 20

— Eliot Shorr-Parks (@EliotShorrParks) February 8, 2023

The run-pass option is what makes the Eagles so dangerous in this part of the field. Not only do defenses have to be equipped to stop the run, whether that be from Miles Sanders, Boston Scott, or Kenneth Gainwell, but they must also account for the mobility of Jalen Hurts.

But playing the run is only half of the battle. With dynamic receivers on the outside like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, defenses are often vulnerable across the middle on slants and crossing routes.

Fascinating breakdown from @EaglesXOS why the Eagles are so deadly in the Red Zone: pic.twitter.com/TANQRksfro

— Ross Tucker Podcast (@RossTuckerPod) February 8, 2023

Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has had two weeks to game plan a scheme that can keep the Eagles’ offense in check down in the red area. However, head coach Nick Sirianni and offensive coordinator Shane Steichen have had the same amount of time to add even more creativity designed for the offense to succeed deep into Kansas City territory.

In order to come away with the win, Philadelphia must continue to use the RPO in the red zone to keep the Chiefs’ defense guessing. Hurts’ decision making will likely be put to the test, though he’s proven to be battle tested over the course of the season.

Featured image via Eric Hartline – USA TODAY Sports