Return to Form?

PHILADELPHIA — The ride into South Philadelphia revealed a backdrop that resembled the Chronicles of Narnia, but the snow showers — coating the seats at Lincoln Financial Field — eventually gave way to aggressive win and sun closer to kickoff. The two-win Raiders were ill-equipped to put up a fight on the road, mustering under 100 yards of offense as the Eagles pitched a shut-out, winning comfortably by a score of 31-0.

GETTY IMAGES: The Eagles’ defensive line swarmed the Raiders offense in the 31-0 shutout victory.

For the Eagles, it was a return to dominance on both sides of the ball, especially defense, where quarterback Kenny Pickett was under duress for much of the afternoon and the running game was bottled up, with Ashton Jeanty averaging 3.8 yards per carry. Even Brock Bowers, their star tight end, mustered only 28 yards on six catches.

Inactive for the Eagles were OLB Josh Uche, QB Sam Howell (3rd QB), CB Mac McWilliams, RB A.J. Dillon, T Lane Johnson and DT Jalen Carter.

Note: All signs point to Johnson is nearing his return, while Fred Johnson made his fourth consecutive start at right tackle. This marked the third consecutive week in which Uche has been deemed inactive after having originally carved out roles on kick coverage and as a rotational pass-rusher.

Elevated from the practice squad for this game was S Andre’ Sam, who registered his third (and final) elevation. Sam would need to be signed to the 53-man roster if he’s to play in another game this season. The second-year pro provided special teams prowess and special teams depth.

Let’s get to the observations.

*The Raiders won the opening toss and elected to defer to the second half, bringing on the Eagles’ offense first. The drive covered 7:09 and had a nice run-pass balance. A defensive pass interference penalty called on CB Eric Stokes on third-and-3 extended the 13-play possession. In several short yardage situations, the Eagles brought on all three tight ends and fullback Cam Latu, which proved to be an effective remedy to grind out tough yards. Really liked the red zone creativity, with Jalen Hurts selling a fake to RB Saquon Barkley and shoveling a pass to TE Dallas Goedert for a 4-yard touchdown. Fast start for an oft-maligned group.

*Without much of an identity to hang their hat on offensively, the Raiders implemented an approach I was anticipating — a short, methodical, death-by-a-thousand cuts passing game accompanied by a plodding run game sprinkled in. QB Kenny Pickett completed 6 of 8 pass attempts for 30 yards on the opening possession, which was extended due to a Cooper DeJean penalty (and negated the yards loss from a Brandon Graham sack) on a third-and-8. Afforded a fresh set of downs, Pickett was sacked on the ensuing play by DT Moro Ojomo, who picked up his fifth of the season. The drive stalled on a fourth-and-6, with OLB Jaelan Phillips getting a hand up to deflect a pass intended for WR Tyler Lockett.

*A week after committing five turnovers, Hurts played a crisp and clean game, completing 12 of 15 pass attempts for 175 yards and three touchdowns on an afternoon in which wind was a factor. But Hurts also showcased his dual threat ability, carrying seven times for 39 yards. His rushing numbers are down this year, but for the Eagles to get the most out of their offense — and Hurts — they’ll need to implement more quarterback runs. And Hurts must all seize opportunities and tuck and run when the moment calls for it. Once referred to as a ‘triple threat’ — arm, legs, mind — to diminish Hurts’ running ability, which should also aid the running game, would be a disservice to the offense.

*Massive first half for Graham, who has been moonlighting inside in the absence of Jalen Carter. The 37-year-old was a force from the interior, knifing through for a pair of sacks. Graham last week mentioned how much of what he’s being asked to do is similar to his role from last season, and he’s been focused on mastering the technical aspects of going from outside to inside. Specifically, balance and entrenching both feet in the ground when striking was something he noted. With those two sacks, Graham brings his career total to 78.5, behind only Reggie White (124.0) and Trent Cole (85.5).

*The Raiders were victimized throughout the afternoon on intermediary throws to Goedert, who routinely found the soft spots in zone and served as a primary target for Hurts. Goedert finished with 70 yards and two touchdowns on six receptions (seven targets). I mentioned previously, Hurts and Goedert have strong chemistry, often manifesting during training camp with a flurry of timing-based completions. Now, at long last, the veteran tight end has become a focal point in the passing game — and for the first time in his career, the red zone. Say what you will about the job Kevin Patullo has done as the Eagles’ offensive coordinator, but he’s the only one who has truly maximized Goedert’s value in the receiving game.

*On the Eagles’ fourth offensive possession, which resulted in a two-yard Barkley plunge to extend the lead to 17-0, RB Tank Bigsby was in for most of the drive as Barkley was on the sideline conversing with trainers, carrying three times for 14 yards. Many on the outside have clamored for more Bigsby, which I agree with to an extent. It was good to see Bigsby make the most of his touches and perhaps the team can work him into the game plan more. He hits the hole with decisiveness, as evidenced late in the game when the starters were relieved. Bigsby could be critical down the stretch, so long as the Eagles stack wins, as it would afford them the opportunity to lessen the load for Barkley.

*Another pass defended logged by CB Adoree’ Jackson, who broke on a Pickett throw to Lockett on a third-and-8 to force a punt just before the break. Jackson, who last week picked up his fifth career interception to go along with a pair of passes defended, has settled into his role as the Eagles’ No. 2 cornerback. He’s playing well at a critical point in the season as the final stretch fast approaches.

*The Eagles converted 10 of 13 third-down attempts and finished with just three penalties for 35 yards. The team also dominated in time of possession, controlling the ball for 39:25.

— Andrew DiCecco (@AndrewDiCecco) is a Staff Reporter/Content Producer for InsideTheBirds.com