Eagles Face Challenge Against Bengals Without Dallas Goedert

As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals this Sunday, they’ll do so without one of their most reliable offensive weapons, tight end Dallas Goedert.

The absence of Goedert, who has been sidelined due to injury, presents a significant challenge for quarterback Jalen Hurts and the rest of the Eagles’ offense, which has struggled to find a consistent identity this season.

Goedert has been a key part of the Eagles’ offensive scheme, providing a reliable target in the passing game and helping to open up the field for other receivers. His ability to stretch the defense and create mismatches has made him a favorite for Hurts, particularly in crucial situations.

Without him, the Eagles will need to adjust their game plan, relying more heavily on their wide receivers and running backs to pick up the slack.

In Goedert’s absence, players like DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown will need to step up significantly. Smith has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but he must become a more consistent threat to help Hurts move the chains. Brown, a proven playmaker, will likely draw more defensive attention, which could open opportunities for others, but it remains to be seen if the Eagles can capitalize on those chances.

The Eagles’ offense has been in search of a cohesive rhythm, often struggling to execute plays effectively. Hurts has faced criticism for his decision-making at times, but the lack of a reliable supporting cast has compounded the issue.

The Bengals’ defense, known for its aggressive approach and ability to create turnovers, will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Eagles’ game plan, particularly with a less experienced tight end stepping in.

Head coach Nick Sirianni will need to be creative in his approach, possibly employing more two-tight-end sets with Jack Stoll and Calcaterra to provide some balance.

Additionally, utilizing running backs like Kenneth Gainwell and D’Andre Swift in the passing game could help alleviate the pressure on Hurts and keep the Bengals’ defense guessing.

As the Eagles aim for a successful outing against the Bengals, they’ll need to adapt quickly to the challenges presented by Goedert’s absence. Finding a way to establish the run and effectively distribute the ball to their remaining playmakers will be crucial.

If the Eagles can rise to the occasion, they may yet find the consistency they desperately need to remain competitive in the NFC.