Eagles Offensive Line Starting To Gel

With the addition of new offensive line coach Howard Mudd, and a bunch of new players, the Eagles offensive line got off to a pretty slow start.  In the first few weeks there was a lot of shuffling on the O-line, and they were clearly out of rhythm and lacking chemistry.  The protection for Vick was subpar, the Eagles turned the ball over a lot, and as a result they lost games in the early going.

But after a week off, the Eagles offensive line looked great against the Cowboys.  Vick had all day to throw, and glaring holes and running lanes were opened up for Lesean McCoy.  The Eagles always had all the tools for a successful offensive line now they are finally beginning to piece it all together.  They have a great coach and protection scheme and individually they have some great blockers.  Peters is steady as a rock, Herremans is extremely versatile, and Kelce, Mathis, and Watkins are quickly emerging as great interior linemen.  The offensive line is finally starting to find rhythm and everyone is beginning to play better together.

As a result this entire Eagles offense is benefiting greatly.  First and foremost Vick has more time in the pocket.  Vick is a dangerous quarterback period, but when you give him time back in the pocket he is deadly.  He can go through his reads and he can also find running lanes to pick up quick first downs.

The enhanced protection is also clearly helping Shady McCoy.  He had a career best 185 yards against the Cowboys and earlier this year even if he was given 30 touches that just simply would not have happened.  The offensive line was too inconsistent early on but now it seems they have definitely found their stride.  The offensive line was so successful against Dallas because they were able to get past the line of scrimmage and set up blocks down field.

Lastly the protection benefited the Eagles in the turnover department.  The Eagles had 0 turnovers against the Boys mainly because Vick wasn't rushed into bad throws.  He was able to stand back in the pocket, go through his reads, and make smart throws.

Overall the offensive line is going to be the key to a successful second half for the Eagles.  And if the boys up front play like they did on Sunday for the rest of the year, I see no reason why the Birds can't run the table.