The Eagles are back to work as they prepare for their Week 12 game against the Rams, and defensvie coordinator Vic Fangio took some time on Tuesday to speak to reporters. He talked about Jalen Carter’s snap count, how Reed Blankenship is the quarterback of the secondary, and also noted why the Rams’ receivers will be a challenge.
Here’s what the DC had to say:
On the defensive tackles
Fangio was asked what goes into considering letting a defensive tackle stay on the field for 100 percent of the defensive snaps, like Jalen Carter did on Thursday night.
“Number one, it’s the guy’s conditioning — can they do it? Two, sometimes the circumstance allow itself to happen or make it hard to get him out on occasion. So, it’s kinda the flow of the game, but I’ve had many do it or come close to doing it.”
He later talked about how Carter had been playing a lot of snaps prior to the Commanders game, and there’s little difference between 90 percent of snaps and 100 percent. The DT has been playing at a high level, and has been putting in good work during meetings that is translating to the field.
The DC also noted that Jordan Davis has been playing better and better as of late, explaining that he’s been strong against the run, offering a little pass rush, and improving overall. He also pointed out that the rest of the defensive tackle room has been playing well this season, too.
On facing the Rams’ offense
The DC explained how they’ll have to be ready for pre-snap motions and have to be prepared to adjust correctly.
“They do motion a lot, at various tempos, and they’re trying to get you a little bit out of position and back on your heels a little bit. And, we’ve gotta be ready for it and be able to play correctly and not let the motion confuse us at all.”
He later said that they’ve got two really good receivers — Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp — who have a good connection with QB Matthew Stafford. Both wideouts are strong at the catch point, are strong receivers, and are both excellent runners after the catch. The Rams offense will be at full strength on Sunday, and will be a challenge.
On the secondary
Fangio acknowledged that having continuity on the backend, with only Slay missing one game this season, helps, especially with communication. He quipped that they’re all better coaches when their better players are on the field, so it’s always helpful to have that cohesive group together.
The DC also talked about Reed Blankenship, highlighting the safety’s penchant for getting low-diving interceptions.
“It’s amazing how all three of [Reed Blankenship’s] picks have looked the same. He’s done a good job. He quarterbacks the secondary, leads the communication between them and the linebackers. So, he’s very, very valuable.”
Other notables
- Fangio had good things to say about Nolan Smith’s development, pointing out the edge rusher’s speed and athleticism. The DC said that the Eagles defense needs someone like Smith, and he’s found ways to offset perhaps being smaller for the position.
- He explained that each game is a new adventure, so some games he might play a lot two-high safety, and others he’ll play one safety or man coverage. It’s more a game-by-game decision rather than something season-by-season.
