The Philadelphia Eagles reached the NFC Championship Game after defeating the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card Round and the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round. While Saquon Barkley is getting most of the spotlight, their defensive front has also terrorized their opponents.
Pro Football Focus pointed out that Jalen Carter has 12 pressures this postseason, while Nolan Smith has 11. Against the Packers, Smith had two sacks, while Carter had two quarterback hits. A week later, Carter has two sacks, which is nearly half of his regular-season production. Meanwhile, Smith has 9.5 sacks in the season (including playoffs).
The Philadelphia Bulldogs duo this postseason
— PFF (@PFF) January 21, 2025
Jalen Carter - 12 pressures (T-1st)
Nolan Smith - 11 pressures (3rd) pic.twitter.com/kLDs6h0LoK
Carter and Smith helped the Eagles limit their playoff opponents to score 16 points per game. Likewise, the Eagles limited their postseason foes to three touchdowns. Carter’s disruptive force earned him a Second-Team All-Pro selection.
The defensive tackle and the outside linebacker will be crucial in the Eagles’ success against the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship Game. Conversely, the Commanders offense must always keep an eye on these two players after the snap.
-Lance Fernandez