Atlanta Falcons vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Week 10 To-Do Checklist

3. Minimize 3rd Down Conversions 

For defenses, getting critical stops on third downs is one of the most focused objectives for defenders on game days.

In the case of the Eagles, the offense is 30th in the league in third down conversions. In their last five games, the Eagles are 22-of-63 on third downs, including their last two games in which they converted just nine of their 30 attempts on third down.

Why this facet may need a little more attention is based on the fact that Atlanta has not been necessarily strong on third down defense this season. The unit has allowed 45% of opponent’s third downs to be converted to first downs which ranks the unit 28th in that category.

A Philadelphia team that likes to deploy multiple WR sets along with a dangerous scat-back in Darren Sproles and tight end Zach Ertz, third down stops are going to rely heavily on discipline play from rookie linebackers Deion Jones and De’Vondre Campbell as well as rookie strong safety Keanu Neal. Of course, key third down stops and sound tackling go hand-and-hand. Minimizing these conversions also means having the defensive line, led by Vic Beasley and Adrian Clayborn, having drive-stopping sacks on obvious third down passing situations.