Why This Game Is Important
The Eagles are actually second in their division. It’s hard to believe, but it is true. If the Eagles can get a win on the road this week and the Cowboys manage to lose to the Vikings they will be tied for first in the division. Even if that scenario unfolds it would be hard to imagine that the Eagles will hold that first place ranking for long; their quarterbacks have been dropping like flies this season.
As for the Raiders, there is not much playoff hope. The Chiefs are undefeated right now and the Broncos are still the Broncos. It would be nice to see the Raiders build some team camaraderie so they have a plan for next season.
Why This Game Is Not Important
Realistically neither of these teams have a good chance to make the playoffs. The Eagles can not keep their quarterbacks healthy and in the NFL you can’t really roll through to the playoffs without a stable quarterback situation. They also don’t have the defense to make up for their offense. Philadelphia’s offense is not bad by any means. It is just a matter of keeping one quarterback in charge.
As stated before, the Raiders are in a battle for third place. That is never a fun situation, but players can use this time to get acclimated to one another and learn the system better (assuming coach Dennis Allen is still in charge next season).
Hot Seat
Darren McFadden, RB, Oakland Raiders: McFadden can never stay healthy. He has the potential to be one of the top running backs in the league, but that is hard to obtain if you can’t stay on the field. If McFadden can make it through the rest of the year and help Pryor put up good numbers he may be welcomed back to Oakland. There is also the chance he doesn’t want to go back.
Jeremy Maclin, WR, Philadelphia Eagles: Maclin is a really solid number two receiver for the Eagles, but he was lost this year to a season ending knee injury (ACL). The Eagles will most likely want him back but you never know where Chip Kelly wants to go in year two.
Fantasy Players To Watch
Terrelle Pryor, QB: Boy is Pryor fun to watch. His read-option game is so good he confuses his own teammates for 93 yard touchdowns. I am not advising everyone to go out and pick up Pryor, but if you team’s playoff hopes are looking bleak and you want to have some fun go for it!
Darren McFadden, RB: McFadden is the bane of some people’s fantasy existence. As a Flex option McFadden may be a good option this week. The Eagles will be more focused on Pryor’s running ability after his big run last week opening up the option for McFadden.
LeSean McCoy, RB: Regardless of a good Raiders front seven McCoy will still produce this week. McCoy has been outstanding all year and he will continue to do so. It may be tough sledding out of the gate, but as the Raiders fatigue McCoy will get going.
Game Details: Sunday, 4:05 PM ET on FOX @ Oakland
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