In preparation for their wild card round matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Philadelphia Eagles are adopting a simplified defensive approach and looking to revitalize their running game. With recent struggles dampening expectations, the Eagles are hoping that the pressure of the playoffs will ignite their best performance of the season.

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts will have to overcome his struggles with ball security against the blitz, as he faces a Tampa Bay defense that blitzed at the third-highest rate in the regular season. Hurts has thrown five touchdown passes but also endured eight interceptions when facing blitzes, the most by any quarterback in such situations this season.

The Buccaneers' weak spot lies in their interior offensive line, particularly at center. Robert Hainsey, who finished the 2023 season with a middling grade, will be matched up against the formidable Eagles defensive interior player Jalen Carter. This mismatch heavily favors Philadelphia, forcing Tampa Bay to allocate multiple blockers to contain Carter on each snap.

To maximize the defense's potential, the Eagles' coaching staff has made a concerted effort to simplify the game plan, allowing players to play fast and aggressive. This approach aims to eliminate confusion and promote quicker decision-making on the field. While specific coverage adjustments will be made to contain key threats like Mike Evans, the overall defensive plan for early downs is expected to be streamlined.

Right tackle Lane Johnson has emphasized the need to establish the running game, hoping to achieve balance and produce a clean performance. The Eagles' rushing attack, which ran for 201 yards in their Week 3 victory over the Buccaneers, will target Tampa Bay's tough and aggressive front. Offensive line improvements and the emergence of running back Rachaad White, who came close to reaching a thousand yards for the season, have buoyed Philadelphia's hopes of a successful ground game.

In an NFC wild card weekend full of exciting matchups, the Eagles find themselves in a position where they need to reignite their early-season form or face a premature playoff exit. The pressure is on for Philadelphia to overcome their recent struggles and play to their full potential.

The Eagles face the Buccaneers on Monday night, ready to utilize their simplified defensive strategy and rejuvenated running game. As both teams vie for a chance to advance in the playoffs, this wild card showdown promises to be a test of resilience and adaptability on the quest for postseason glory.