Early weather forecast predicts a massive Saquon Barkley game for Eagles vs. Bills in Week 17
The ground game may need to dominate in order for either team to succeed on offense.
When it is December or January, the weather around the NFL wakes up. Freezing cold temperatures, rain, snow, and more factors all play a role in how teams navigate matchups as the regular season closes. For the Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills, both teams are probably keeping a close eye on the expected weather for their upcoming clash that has playoff seeding implications on both sides.
Winter weather may slow down passing offenses for Eagles/Bills
Via multiple reports, the weather for Eagles/Bills may be tough and go, at best. Snow is currently in the forecast, alongside 20+ MPH winds that will include gusts of over 40+ MPH. That’s a tough sign for Josh Allen and Jalen Hurts when it comes to passing the football.
Keep in mind that this forecast could shift, as it is a fluid process in projecting what the weather will look like nearly a week out. That being said, Eagles fans have seen their running game dominate in a snowy environment on many occasions under Nick Sirianni.
Major opportunity for Saquon Barkley and James Cook
With this sort of expected weather, it is fair to assume that the rushing attack for both Philadelphia and Buffalo could absolutely explode. The snowy terrain normally gives an upper hand to running backs who can break tackles, and Saquon Barkley and James Cook are two of the best in the NFL at just that.
Not to mention, we have seen an uptick in production for Barkley in recent weeks. As the games get tougher for everyone involved in the temps and precipitation, he only takes his game to the next level. Barkley’s averaging 5.3 yards per carry over his last three games.
Eagles fans will never forget the star RB’s run against the Los Angeles Rams in the snow, either. He just has a knack for at least one massive, game-changing play in this weather.
It will be interesting to see how each offense attacks the opposing defense in the potential weather. The Bills passing game has had major issues at times this season, and the running game is arguably the best in the entire AFC. Will they lean on that or try to surprise a talented Eagles secondary early and often?
As for Philly, Jalen Hurts has looked more comfortable over the last two games, both big wins for his team. The Eagles are using a bit more play action and getting Hurts’ running ability involved more consistently. You have to wonder if his wheels may play a role in Week 17 as well.
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