Eagles' Super Bowl Hopes Hinge On Center's Return Against Commanders

Introduction

The Philadelphia Eagles' Super Bowl hopes took a significant hit when starting center Jason Kelce suffered a left ankle injury in the team's Week 11 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Kelce has been a mainstay on the Eagles' offensive line for 12 seasons, and his absence will be a major challenge for a team that has Super Bowl aspirations.

Kelce's Importance to the Eagles

Kelce is one of the most respected centers in the NFL. He is an eight-time Pro Bowler and a three-time First-Team All-Pro. Kelce is known for his intelligence, leadership, and physicality. He is a master of the snap, and he is able to anchor the Eagles' offensive line against even the most formidable defensive fronts.

Kelce's absence will be a major blow to the Eagles' offense. He is the quarterback of the offensive line, and he is responsible for making the calls and adjustments at the line of scrimmage. Kelce also plays a key role in the Eagles' running game. He is a powerful blocker, and he is able to create running lanes for Miles Sanders and Kenneth Gainwell.

The Eagles' Backup Center

The Eagles' backup center is Cam Jurgens. Jurgens was a second-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He started 16 games at center for Nebraska in 2020, and he was named a First-Team All-Big Ten selection. Jurgens has shown promise in his limited playing time with the Eagles, but he is still a rookie. He will need to step up and play well if the Eagles are going to continue their Super Bowl run.

The Commanders' Defense

The Commanders' defense is ranked 10th in the NFL in points allowed. They have a talented front seven, led by defensive tackle Jonathan Allen and linebacker Cole Holcomb. The Commanders' secondary is also solid. They have two Pro Bowl players in cornerback Kendall Fuller and safety Kam Curl.

The Commanders' defense will be a tough test for the Eagles' offensive line. Even with Kelce healthy, the Eagles would have their hands full against the Commanders' front seven. With Kelce out, the Eagles will need to find a way to protect quarterback Jalen Hurts and open up running lanes for Sanders and Gainwell.

The Eagles' Playoff Hopes

The Eagles are currently 9-2 and in first place in the NFC East. They are in good position to make the playoffs, but they need to win their remaining games to secure a high seed. The Eagles' schedule is tough down the stretch. They have two games remaining against the Commanders, as well as games against the New York Giants, the Chicago Bears, and the New Orleans Saints.

The Eagles' Super Bowl hopes hinge on Kelce's return. If Kelce can return to the field and play at a high level, the Eagles will be a legitimate contender. However, if Kelce is unable to return, the Eagles will have a tough time winning their remaining games and making a deep playoff run.

Conclusion

The Eagles' Super Bowl hopes hinge on the return of center Jason Kelce. Kelce is one of the best centers in the NFL. He is a key part of the Eagles' offensive line, and his absence will be a major blow. The Eagles' backup center, Cam Jurgens, is a talented rookie, but he is still inexperienced. The Commanders' defense is ranked 10th in the NFL in points allowed. They have a talented front seven and a solid secondary. The Eagles will need to find a way to protect quarterback Jalen Hurts and open up running lanes for Sanders and Gainwell if they want to win their remaining games and make a deep playoff run.

Only time will tell if Kelce will be able to return to the field and play at a high level. If he can, the Eagles will be a legitimate contender. However, if he is unable to return, the Eagles' Super Bowl hopes will be in jeopardy.