Trench Warfare Divisional Round Film Room: Eagles and Chiefs OL
The Eagles offensive line put on a dominant performance as a unit against a strong starting Giants defensive line in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. Philadelphia ran for three touchdowns and 268 yards on 44 rushing attempts (6.1 YPC). They exposed New York’s lack of depth up front, particularly on the interior whenever Dexter Lawrence or Leonard Williams came out of the game. Philadelphia’s offensive line was also very good in pass-protection. All-Pro RT Lane Johnson put on a show despite playing with a torn adductor muscle.
During the Eagles portion of the film room, I spent time focused on the bulldozing, nearly 700-pound left side of the line in left tackle Jordan Mailata (360 pounds) and left guard Landon Dickerson (330 pounds). They showcased their ability to cave in defensive tackles and erase linebackers on double-teams, as well as their rare movement skills in outside zone. Of course, All-Pro and future Hall of Fame center Jason Kelce was heavily featured as well. He executed nearly a half dozen ‘fold’ blocks to perfection. Every Eagles lineman wound up being discussed, and I ended with a brief preview of their matchup with the 49ers in the conference championship.
Next, I highlighted the Chiefs offensive line unit and their performance against the Jaguars with an emphasis on the interior trio and engine of their line: All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney, All-Pro center Creed Humphrey and stud right guard Trey Smith. Those three spearheaded a productive outing on the ground, rushing 30 times for 144 yards (4.8 YPC) and two touchdowns.
For my money, this was the best interior group entering the season and remains so heading into the AFC title game against the Bengals. I spotlighted Trey Smith’s dominance and rare ability to impose his will on defenders, which was present all over the tape against Jacksonville, and Thuney’s brilliance in pass-protection led by his elite balance, use of hands and leverage. Humphrey was touched on here and there with the main focus being on Thuney and Smith. Orlando Brown Jr. and Andrew Wylie were also mentioned. I finished with a quick overview of their upcoming matchup against the Bengals, specifically D.J. Reader and Trey Hendrickson vs. Brown.
Miss prior player film rooms?
Film Room Short - Tristan Wirfs
2022 Rookie OL Film Rooms: Week 1 & Week 2
Jeff Saturday on Tyler Linderbaum
Ikem Ekwonu
Full Divisional Round Film Room:
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