### Eagles' Strategy Shifts Highlight Key Players' Performances and Challenges

In this week’s edition of Roob's 10 Random Eagles Observations, we delve into Nakobe Dean’s fluctuating form, Josh Sweat's resurgence, and fascinating historical anecdotes about Eagles running backs Bosh Pritchard and Clarence Peaks.

**1. Linebacker Troubles and Vic Fangio's Tactics**

Vic Fangio’s decision to replace Avonte Maddox with Cooper DeJean in the slot yielded immediate results, underscoring his willingness to field the best 11 players regardless of tenure. However, this season has showcased the inconsistency of linebacker Nakobe Dean. Despite a strong training camp that landed him the starting middle linebacker role over Devin White, Dean's performance has been marked by missed tackles and coverage breakdowns. While Fangio acknowledges the challenge of handling formidable opponents like Deshaun Watson, he stresses that Dean must improve in making plays in space. Dean’s current Pro Football Focus ratings are less than impressive, ranking him near the bottom in several categories. With only nine career starts, the young linebacker has potential for growth, but his window to make significant strides is closing rapidly.

**2. Adjustments in the Offensive Line**

With Jordan Mailata sidelined due to a hamstring injury, offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland's usual strategy of 1-for-1 replacements is put to the test. Though Fred Johnson is a viable backup tackle, Stoutland might consider shifting Mekhi Becton to left tackle and placing Tyler Steen at right guard. This lineup would ensure that the most skilled five players are on the field, potentially mitigating the loss of Mailata.

**3A & 3B. Historical Performances by Former Eagles**

Reflecting on previous players, Clarence Peaks holds the record for most rushing yards against the Eagles by a former Eagle. In a 1964 game with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Peaks ran 101 yards, making him the only player to achieve a 100-yard game against his old team. On the flip side, Bosh Pritchard achieved the most rushing yards by an Eagle against his former team, running for 99 yards against the Rams in 1949. These historical highlights show the rich legacy and impactful performance of past Eagles running backs.

**4. Current Streak of Low-Scoring Games**

The Eagles are currently experiencing a streak of four games with 21 or fewer points—their longest since Doug Pederson's final year in 2020. If this trend continues against the Giants, it will mark their second-longest streak in the past 25 years. The team's 72 points since Week 2 reflect a need for offensive recalibration.

**5. Josh Sweat's Rebound**

Josh Sweat’s recent performances are a beacon of hope amidst the team’s current struggles. After going 11 games without a sack, he has recorded sacks in consecutive games, along with multiple tackles for loss and quarterback hits. Entering his seventh season, Sweat’s contract is up after this year, and his recent resurgence may prompt the Eagles to consider retaining him at a budget-friendly rate.

These observations highlight both the immediate and long-term considerations for the Eagles as they navigate through the season, balancing between present challenges and future prospects.