BRAZIL AND THE EAGLES DELIVER A WIN AND PROMISE FOR A GREAT SEASON
SÃO PAULO, Brazil -The Eagles started the 2024 season taking the longest flight that the team has ever taken to a continent that has never seen a football game live and played on a “pitch” that isn’t really suited for world class athletes to play a brutal sport on.
It is 11 hours in the air from Philadelphia to São Paulo, Brazil. It is an impossible city to maneuver in of over 22 million people and it was on a Friday night under the lights of Corinthian Arena.
Most players haven’t played on a Friday night since they were starring on their high school football team.
I can speak to the flight and the city and the atmosphere because I was there, along with thousands of die hard Eagle football fans. On my flight from Philadelphia
to Rio de Janeiro it was almost exclusively Bird fans decorated in their favorite team jersey.
The beautiful beaches of Rio looked more like the Jersey Shore than South America with fans all over town. When I got to my hotel in São Paulo it was packed with more Eagle fans. It’s as if they invaded Fedex Field for a game against the Commanders, except that they traveled 8,000 miles to see the opener.
And no one was disappointed.
The atmosphere inside Corinthians Arena was electric. The pageantry was more like a playo game than a season opener.
The 50,000 fans that sold the arena out mirrored more of a Pro Bowl Game than a regular season tilt.
Every team was represented by their favorite team jersey’s or their favorite players. Fireworks, and chants, and flags reminded me more of a World Cup soccer match than an NFL game.
I was busy pregame doing a 1 hour pregame show for the NFL NETWORK and I could not hear my host, Jane Slater, standing right next to me. It was a juiced up stadium.
But the game started and all the hoopla settled down, as did the players. I spoke with many of the Eagle players and coaches prior to the game and no one knew exactly what to expect.
DeVonta Smith was not exactly sure what Green Bay would do since they employed a new defensive coordinator. When I
told him to expect a great deal of press man coverage with the hope of robbing the middle of the field he was thankful for the insight.
Jalen Hurts was loose and approachable before the game going through his normal pregame warm ups. Saquon was bouncing around with excitement. Everything was really very routine and normal before the kick, except I don’t think anyone foresaw how slippery the field would be. Knowing soccer fields and covering NFL EUROPE for 10 years I was used to seeing football players slipping and sliding. Everyone took turns, regardless of position, of losing their footing.
BRIAN BALDINGER ON THE EAGLES
WHEN HE’S NEEDED...HURTS SIMPLY GETS IT DONE
Whatever he had done in the previous three quarters, that was past tense to Jalen Hurts. He knew what he knew, and in his words he “kept the main thing, the main thing,” with the Philadelphia Eagles holding a three-point lead on the Green Bay Packers in a Week 1 showcase game and less than eight minutes remaining and the Eagles needing to put together a meaningful fourth-quarter drive.
field.”
And Hurts went out and made it happen.
The Eagles consumed 7 minutes, 25 seconds o the fourth-quarter clock in their season-opening game in Brazil, with Hurts leading the way. He escaped pressure twice and gained eight yards on each scramble.
He found DeVonta Smith for 16 yards to convert a second-and-13 situation. He went back to Smith on second-and-8 for a connection that gained 11 yards.
Hurts commanded the huddle, was secure with the football, used the play clock well and helped the Eagles squeeze out a field goal on the drive and a 34-29 win over Green Bay, a tone-setting win for the season if there ever was one.
“I put us in some bad situations early, and those are things that I will learn from,” Hurts said, referring to an interception and a fumble that led to six Green Bay points, “and I had to overcome adversity. We all did and that’s what makes this win so special. It’s always good to be able to figure it out. It’s good to start the season o in the win column.
“I judge it on how to respond when it matters most and we overcame that adversity. We made some crucial plays to extend drives, crucial plays down the
The 2024 season is a huge one for Hurts, for the Philadelphia Eagles. All of the pieces are in place for a bounce-back season after the 2023 falter down the stretch when the team went from 10-1 and cruising in the NFC East to losing six of their final seven games, including a Wild Card playo game loss to Tampa Bay. By adding running back Saquon Barkley, beefing up the offensive line, trading for wide receiver Jahan Dotson and even increasing the talent level in the quarterback room by trading for Kenny Pickett, the Eagles have an offense that would appear to have unlimited potential.
“We’re going to continue to build and take this day by day,” Hurts said. “There are obviously a lot of great players here and we are all working together to get better every day, every week. We need consistency and work as a unit to have success.
“For the most part we did good things. We need to be able to finish drives better and put the ball in the end zone, so that is something we need to continue to work on and improve.”
It was clear in the opener that Green Bay was focused on Hurts as a runner, and that his RPO (run/pass option) game was going to be a struggle. Each time through three quarters that Hurts tried to run, Packers defenders were there waiting.
Not until the fourth quarter did Hurts break through, but in the meantime he was able to incorporate Barkley (132 total yards, 3 touchdowns) wide receiver A.J. Brown (5 catches, 119 yards, TD)
PHOTO BY JESSE GARBER
will make his share of mistakes, but in the end, he does what’s needed to get the victory.
Jalen Hurts
BY DAVE SPADARO EAGLES INSIDER
THE AMAZING FIRST GAME OF ZACK BAUN
It was a major surprise to myself and many of the other members of the Philadelphia sports media, when Birds new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio decided to begin Training Camp with former New Orleans linebacker Zack Baun at one of the starting inside linebacker positions.
Baun had been a backup in New Orleans as an outside linebacker for four seasons. He’s an outstanding athlete with good size and good speed,
BY GARRY 'G' COBB
but it was a major surprise for him to be playing inside linebacker rather than outside.
After one game, he’s proven to all of us that he can play inside linebacker and for that matter he’s shown us that he can play it very well.
In the Eagles battle with the Green Bay Packers, Baun was able to make tackles all over the field from inside to outside, to downfield, to rushing o the cor-
ner, to getting downfield in pass coverage. He got into the Packers backfield a number of times and was disruptive.
Yes, Baun had an amazing game in his Eagles debut down in São Paulo, Brazil on Friday night September 6th.
I was amazed by his ability to get o blocks. His instincts helped him make plays all over the field throughout the game from the first quarter until there were nothing but zeros left on the clock.
Baun fought o blocks to make tackles versus Green Bay’s running game and he used his speed and quickness to allude blockers and make plays against the Packers passing game.
Near the end of the first quarter, Baun lined up outside and o the line scrim-
mage like he was going to drop into pass coverage.
This must have been a flaw in the Green Bay pass protection that veteran defensive coordinator Vic Fangio saw in his study of the Packers o ense.
When the ball was snapped, Baun blitzed o the right side of the Birds defense and proceeded untouched to a sack of Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love. This play was indicative of the way Baun played versus the Packers. He could do no wrong during the game, whether he blitzed or dropped into coverage.
In one of the most important plays of
PHOTO BY KIRBY LEE-IMAGN IMAGES
Eagles linebacker Zack Baun tackles Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson during the second half at Neo Quimica Arena, Brazil.
BARKLEY IS SHOWING HE IS MUCH MORE THAN A RUNNING BACK
If the United States is looking for someone to send to a troubled part of the world to calm things down and put smiles on people’s faces, they may want to consider Eagles running back Saquon Barkley.
Eagles fans knew they were getting a multi-talented three-down player who can score any time he touches the ball, but did they know they were getting a guy who would represent the Eagles and the NFL in Brazil with such grace and good will?
Barkely, who scored three touchdowns, a hat trick in the soccer world, was asked about scoring not just the first touchdown of his career with the Eagles, but the first NFL touchdown scored in Brazil and South America.
Barkley was also asked how he felt
about the historic moment and about the atmosphere at São Paulo’s Arena Corinthians.
Barkley’s response made him an instant hit with the people of Brazil.
It also must have crushed so many Giants fans who are still fuming General Manager Joe Schoen allowed their most popular player to walk.
“I’m the first person to ever score in South America, that’s cool,” Barkley said at his postgame press conference. “I’ve definitely got to try to get that game ball. That is something I would hang up, put in my house.
“But the atmosphere was electric. I kind of knew what it was going to be like.
One of my boys, he stayed out here for a little bit. He went to the soccer game… oops football, my fault…while he was here, and he sent me a video. I knew what it was going to be about.
“The thing I took out…outside of how electric the fans were, that national anthem. I’m not really familiar with Portuguese. So I don’t really know what was being said. But I saw how everyone was singing, everyone was all doing it together, it literally gave me chills.
“If you ask anybody what they thought [they’d say]…’wow that was special.’
“I think if you can’t get ready for a football game after hearing your national anthem, then seeing your guy’s national anthem, being here, being in the moment and realizing we are making history, you’ve got to check yourself.”
Big Blue played the Packers back on October 8, 2022 in London. Barkley had 13 carries for 70 yards and the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter.
He added three catches for 36 yards. The Giants came back from a 17-3 deficit to win 27-22.
In his first game as an Eagle, he carried the ball 24 times for 109 yards and two touchdowns. He also caught two passes for 23 yards and another touchdown.
Barkley was asked if it is the international games, or the Packers that inspires great games out of him?
“I think it’s the international games, right?” Barkley said with a smile “Two international games and two ‘Player of the Game.’ It’s happened to me twice.
“Hopefully we can schedule a little bit more [international games]…then you guys can see me a little bit more in South America or you never know where ever else we go.
“I love it,” Barkley continued, warm-
PHOTO IS A SCREEN SHOT FROM PHILADELPHIAEAGLES.COM
Saquon Barkley talks to international media after the Eagles 34-29 win over the Packers in Brazil.
KIRBY LEE-IMAGN IMAGES
Eagles running back Saquon Barkley runs during the first quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Neo Quimica Arena, Brazil.
ing to the subject. “I truly enjoy it. I take pride in it, growing the game and expanding the brand…even myself.
“I never thought when I was seven years old, starting football, where this game would take me to. I try to just get lost in that and enjoy the moment...and every time I’m doing that, just try and have the most fun I can and play to the level I can.”
Barkley was one of only a few Eagles who seemed to light up when asked about going to play a regular season NFL game in Brazil, even with the 10-hour flight each way.
After the game, Eagles players seemed genuinely happy that they went. Barkley was asked about the mood in the Eagles locker room after the game. He was also asked to send a message to all the new NFL Fans in Brazil.
Barkley revealed he had been to Brazil earlier in the year…and again, he was sure to relay how much loved the whole national anthem thing.
“The locker room mood was great,” Barkley said. “Anytime you get a win in this league, you’re always excited. It’s hard to win in this league…It’s super hard. Some people don’t truly understand that. So, the locker room was great.
“The message I would give to the fans is…to everyone in Brazil, thank you so much. The culture here, everything about it was beautiful. We had a blast.
“Honestly, I came out here before on my own,” Barkley continued. “I came out for Carnival (Carnival in Rio de Janeiro). So I got to dive into the culture a little bit more. I got to go out and party…I think it’s called ‘funk’…I tried my little dance, or my little version of it…it was awesome.
“The national anthem…obviously I love my country, but when it was your guy’s national anthem, I got chills. I never remember seeing anything like it. It was an honor to be part of it.”
BARKLEY SCORED POINTS WITH EAGLES FANS AS WELL
Barkley was asked how he thought he was going to be used by the Eagles and how it turned out in his first game.
“I’ve been saying throughout camp that there would be opportunities for me to be out there and deliver,” Barkley said. “And that there would be games for A.J. (Brown) and DeVonta (Smith) and (Dallas) Goedert and so on and so on…I have
look better than I actually am.”
no idea [who will be called on].
“I think Kellen (OC Moore) has a real good feel for the game, feel for the players…still, I felt like I left a lot out there and can’t wait to get back and watch the film, see where I can improve.
“It was a great start. At the end of the day, the most important thing is to win football games…that’s how they do it in this league, especially against a great team like that.”
Barkley spread the love he has for his new teammates.
“One, you have to give credit to the offensive line, it starts with the o ensive line and Jalen (Hurts), making the right reads and putting us in the right positions” He said. “The O-line is setting me up and making me look better than I actually am.
“It doesn’t hurt to have Dallas Goedert, A.J. Brown and DeVonte Smith. On the scouting report, I’m probably not even top three you’ve got to worry about.
“It makes my job a lot easier. Kellen does a really good job of putting us in a position to be really special.”
Barkley was asked if getting that first game in with the Birds was a relief. The 27-year-old out of Penn State said all he wants to do is prove his worth the his peers and Eagles fans.
“Once I signed, I kind of had that monkey o my back,” Barkley sai d. “I was super excited and thankful for the opportunity. Not trying to get too much into the past but, I was just able to lock in.
“At the end of the day, you can say what you want, the money’s good and all that…but I truly love this game, I love playing football. I was able to take care of that…shout out to my team, shout out to my agent. I’m here…I want to be special.
“I want to be special in this o ense. I want to be special for this team. I want to give Philly something they can be proud about. I think they will be happy with the start, being 1-0. It’s beautiful to be here, beautiful to be in South America.
“Now I get to go back home and do it in front of our fans on Monday night.”
PHOTO BY ANDY LEWIS
Saquon Barkley said the Eagles o ensive line is a big reason he came to Philadelphia. “The O-line is setting me up and making me
PHOTO BY JESSE GARBER
Saquon Barkley was quick to compliment Eagles new o ensive coordinator Kellen Moore.
EAGLES DEFENSE GETS MIXED REVIEWS
IN OPENER-BUT STILL GOT THE WIN
Eagles
first round pick in 2022 out of Georgia Jordan Davis was a nonfactor against the Packers in Brazil. Domo: “Davis was invisible against the Packers. The 2022 first-rounder played just 35 snaps and didn’t make a dent in the stat sheet. Didn’t have a tackle or assist or hurry. He’s starting to look like a guy who wants to be a first-round bust.”
BY PAUL DOMOWITCH
The Eagles unveiled their new and hopefully improved defense on an ice skating rink in Brazil last Friday night.
And while it’s clear that Vic Fangio’s unit still has an awful lot of things it needs to work on, it did manage to do enough right things to fly out of Sao Paulo with a 34-29 season-opening win.
The most important thing it did well was force Packers coach Matt LaFleur to use his rookie kicker, Brayden Narveson, more than he would’ve preferred.
Thanks largely to three turnovers by Jalen Hurts and the Eagles o ense, the defense faced four red zone challenges from a Packers o ense that finished third in total yards and seventh in scoring last
season.
But just one of those four opportunities inside the Eagles’ 20 resulted in a touchdown.
The other three times the Packers had to settle for Narveson field goals, which ultimately was the di erence in this game.
The Packers started their second possession on the Philadelphia 19 thanks to the first of Hurts’ two interceptions, but never made it closer to the end zone than the 12.
Started their third possession on the Eagles 13 thanks to a fumbled snap between Hurts and center Cam Jurgens. Made it to the five that time before the defense sti ened.
The Eagles’ third red zone stop came midway through the fourth quarter following yet another Hurts interception.
Trailing by five, the Packers drove from their own 13 to the Philadelphia eight before an Eagles pass rush that had been quiet most of the night, managed to pressure quarterback Jordan Love on backto-back second- and third-down plays and force yet another appearance from Narveson.
Last season, the Eagles defense finished 29th in the NFL in red zone touchdown percentage. Opponents converted 65.0 percent of their opportunities inside the 20 into touchdowns.
During the Eagles’ infamous season-ending collapse last season, opponents’ red-zone success against them jumped to 70.4 in the final seven games.
A couple of other positives. Linebacker Zack Baun, an under-the-radar free agent signing in the o season, had a sensational game against the Packers, notching a team-high 15 tackles, two sacks and two hurries.
Baun, who signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Eagles, had started just 14 games in four years for the Saints. Averaged only 165 defensive snaps a season.
The Saints used him mostly as a passing-down edge rusher. Had just two sacks in four years in the Big Easy.
But Roseman and Fangio felt the 6-3, 225-pounder also had the potential to be a damn good o -ball linebacker. If Friday’s game is any indication, Howie
PHOTO BY ANDY LEWIS
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY THE EAGLES
Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s unit came up big after the Eagles o ense turned the ball over.
FIELD
With
But the biggest takeaway for me from the first outing was what Jalen and the new o ense designed by Kellen Moore would look like and how the addition of Saquon Barkley would be utilized. I don’t believe it could have gone any better against a quality opponent.
Barkley was amazing. He ran for over 100, he scored 3 touchdowns and one was on a well designed run action route out of the backfield matched up against an inside linebacker. Jalen dropped in a dime for an 18-yard opening score touchdown to open the season and take an early 7-6 lead.
He would run for 2 more touchdowns including an 11-yarder behind the new right guard and center, Mekhi Becton and Cam Jurgens.
When the game tightened in the fourth quarter and the Birds were playing with the lead Saquon ripped o a number of sol-
id inside runs that gained yards and took time o the clock. 34 points and 400+ yards of o ense is a great way to begin the season after last year’s horrendous collapse.
The introduction to short three -step drops were welcomed by Jalen and especially DeVonta Smith who caught seven of his eight targets, many for first
downs. The use of motions, presnap movement, and a variety of formations had purpose.
None was more important than the second play of the third quarter. Down 19-17 to begin the third quarter and faced with 2-and-7 at their own 33 yard line; Kellen Moore had AJ Brown motion from a stack look to widen out to get matched up
on the Packers best cornerback, Jaire Alexander.
It created a one-on-one for AJ. He took an inside release and stacked Jaire when Jalen threw a perfect pass over the top to a streaking AJ and he used high speed and explosion to go 67 yards for the biggest play of the game and give the Birds a brief lead. The o ense was good.
Much has been made about the two interceptions of Jalen.
The first was a seam route to DeVonta against a predicted Tampa two look.
It was the right read. It wasn’t a particularly good route by the Slim Reaper. This throw gets made every week in the NFL.
It wasn’t a strong route and not a perfect throw and Xavier McKInney intercepted. The other INT was made in the end zone. It was a scramble drill as Jalen broke the pocket and AJ ran a routine scramble drill where he went deep and found a dead spot in the Packer secondary.
He was waving both arms to Jalen when Hurts let it fly. It looked as if it was going to be an easy score, except AJ slipped in the end zone when he was attacking the ball and it allowed Alexander time to intercept.
I liked the decision...He has thrown many touchdowns to AJ over the past three years where he trusts his favorite receiver to come down with a jump ball type throw. I wouldn’t second guess the decision..I liked the aggressiveness. You have to have that mentality to win big games and playo games
All in All Brazil delivered. The rabid fans took over the city. The Birds o ense looked powerful and smart as they had answers to the blitz and they had a very productive evening. And now they get one game under their belts with a few days to recover before they see the Vikings in their home opener.
Great start to a promising season. •
PHOTO BY: KIRBY LEE-MAGN IMAGES
Sep 6, 2024; Pregame. São Paulo, Brazil; A general overall view of the 2024 NFL São Paolo Came at Neo Quimica Arena.
FOR THE TEP FOOTBALL, THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE THE TOP
Imhotep Charter has made three consecutive trips to the PIAA AAAAA State Championship game, winning it in 2023.They are hungry for another one
BY AL THOMPSON
You might think after your high school football team made it to three consecutive PIAA (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association) AAAAA championship games, winning the 2023 title, might see its passion for winning slide a little bit.
That is not the case with running back Jabree Wallace-Coleman and the Imhotep Institute Charter High School football program.
The Panthers are poised to make a run at a fourth championship game and a second consecutive state championship.
Wallace-Coleman, the standout running back for Imhotep, talked to Footballstories just before the season started. He talked about the journey he and his teammates have followed these last three years including finally grabbing the brass ring.
“That was amazing,” Wallace-Coleman said. “I don’t know if everybody knows this, but it was our third time in a row (playing in the PIAA 5A State Championship game), first time winning it.
“Last year we had to prove everybody wrong, show them how Imhotep really is,” Wallace-Coleman said before a practice. “The preparation that went into that season was crazy. I’m just glad we were able to get it done.”
PANTHERS PLAYERS THAT LEFT – THOSE WHO WILL NEED TO STEP UP IN 2024
Imhotep lost some players including CB Kenneth Woseley, Jr., WR Nile Brown, DL Jah’Sear Whittington and QB/FS Mikal Davis Jr.
Wallace-Coleman is headed to his senior season. It is his time to be the leader on and o the field.
According to Yahoo Sport (Rivals), as a junior, Wallace-Coleman rushed 208 times for 1,585 yards (7.6 yards per carry) and 28 rushing touchdowns. He also scored twice through the air and returned
a punt for another score. found the end zone twice through the air in the passing game, and returned a punt for a touchdown.
Wallace-Coleman was asked about players like him who would be called on to take bigger roles.
“We’ve got a lot of young guys who are going to step up and play big roles this year including Joey Mcleish (6-1, 170), he’s our starting quarterback and he’s only a sophomore,” Wallace-Coleman said. “Kareem Haqq, he is only a sophomore, he is one of our receivers, running back Syeer Coleman, a junior...I know when I need a break, he’s going to go in there; he’s going to get the same type of production. That’s just the trust I have in my guys.”
Coleman is aware the better he does, the more yards and touchdowns he produces, the more win the Panthers will produce
“I can’t say something to my guys and not do it,” said Wallace-Coleman, who lists Eagles star running back Saquon Barkley as the NFL player he admires today. “So I am always going to try and do my
best so I can bring my best players...I’m one of the captains on this team, I’m one of the leaders. I know everything I do is going to be reciprocated. So, I just have to keep putting out.”
Wallace-Coleman confirmed he is headed to Penn State.
Coaches at the top levels look for talent, but they also look for what drives the players they want to lead their program for the next few years.
One measuring stick is a player’s love of football and his love to compete.
“Football is everything to me,” Wallace-Coleman said. “I’ve been playing since I was five (years old) and I’m 17 now...12 years. The love I’ve got for this game. It’s done so much for me. I wouldn’t be here, I wouldn’t be going to Penn State if it weren’t for [football]. I know I’ve always got to give back because it’s given so much to me.”
Wallace-Coleman did not have the bitter taste of defeat in 2023.
“Competing? I’m a real big competitor,” Wallace-Coleman said. “And I’m sore at losing. I hate losing. Losing is the worst feeling for me. I’m just going to keep it up, keep winning.”
Wallace-Coleman said he plans on running track his senior year. He knows running track can add techniques he can transfer to football.
“It will teach me technique and form,” Wallace-Coleman said. He said will likely run in the 100- & 200-yard sprint races. What about the long jump? “I didn’t think about that, I guess I could long jump.”
Wallace-Coleman said before Barkley, he also had running back he would watch when he was little
“When I was growing up, I watched a lot of Barry Sanders and Adrian Peterson. They were both my favorite players growing up.”
Someday Wallace-Coleman may be walking these greats. For now, he is focused on hanging another banner at Imhotep.
NOTE: An Imhotep Institute Charter o cial reported that Wallace-Coleman and several teammates traveled to Ghana in West Africa. The school o cial said the players went there to take part in community projects.
Players that went were Wallace-Coleman, Kenneth Woseley (graduated), Nile Brown (graduated), Jah’Sear Whittington (graduated), Mikal Davis (graduated), Zahir Mathis, Isaiah Prater, Donte Whittington, Cyril Woodland and Zykee Scott. ••
PHOTO BY AL THOMSON
Jabree Wallace-Coleman with his o ensive lineman. From left...Kasim Green, Zakee Wiggins-Hall, Jesse Moody, Nick Williams, Jabree (middle), Brian Moore, Ibn Graham, Nyeem Powell and Dominick Goods.
SKINS EARLY CONFIDENCE PAYS OFF WITH A GOOD START
Much of that confidence and 3-0 start starts with Neshaminy’s senior-driven o ensive line
BY AL THOMPSON
NESHAMINY: Everyone who follows football – from pro, college and high school coaches, to the fans in the stands –know that success starts with the o ensive line.
Look at all the latest Super Bowl winning teams…every one needed a great offensive line in order to hang a banner. Neshaminy High School football has a long, proud history. But the Skins have had just one winning season since the 2018 team carved out an 8-4 campaign. The one winning season Neshaminy has recorded since then was in 2020, during the pandemic, when the Skins went 5-1 with no playo s.
These are the 2024 senior players for the Neshaminy football team. The Skins have endured three consecutive losing seasons coming into the fall. They hope to end that streak this year.
Since 2020, Neshaminy has posted a 10-20 record.
These interviews took place on the Neshaminy practice field before the season started.
Now that the Skins are 3-0, one win from matching all of 2023, it is interesting to see the impact an o ensive line that starts four seniors who have played together since 2021, can have on a team.
The four senior O-linemen are Kyler Nelson (6-1, 285), Richard Esher (6-2, 276), Kieron Durnin (6-1, 278) and William Dunkley (6-1, 275).
Milmot was asked a week before their opener against Emmaus (a 20-17 OT win) what would be the key to getting back to the program’s winning ways.
Of course, it started with the “hog mollies”- as former Giants GM David Gettleman once nicknamed his O-linemen.
“If you play Neshaminy football, you’re expected to work really hard,” Wilmot said. “That’s almost a given. Working hard is a given. [The players] have to decide every day when they show up, that they want to be really, really good.
“It’s a decision they have to make every single day. They can’t take any days o or they’re not going to be naturals. Every day with the competition we play week-in and week-out, they have to decide that they want to be good and they want to excel and they want to do it for the team.
“That’s the thing about playing o ensive line, it’ kind of a selfless position… you’re blocking for other people…It’s delayed gratification. A lot of times…no one in the stands can see the great blocks until we watch the film, whether it be Saturday morning or Monday afternoon; it’s delayed gratification.
“They’re busting their ass for the running back, who runs for 100 yards, or the quarterback that throws for 200 yards, or the fullback that runs for 50 yards with four first downs…whatever.
“They’re doing it for other people. They have to make up their mind every day if they want to be good.”
PHOTO BY AL THOMPSON
The driving force for the Neshaminy o ense: From left: William Dunkley (OL), Kieron Durnin (OL), RJ Esher (OL), Kyler Nelson (C). Carter Clee (RB), Michael Eckart (QB1).
PHOTO BY JESSE GARBER
WILMOT SAYS HE’S KNOWN THIS GROUP FOR A LONG TIME
According to the school’s website, Wilmot entered the Neshaminy School District’s teaching sta while securing a position with the football team in 1995. He was named head coach in 2015.
Wilmot played o ensive line at Springfield High School (Erdenheim, PA) and at the college level at Lock Haven University.
That means Wilmot was an assistant coach when Neshaminy won the PA State Title in 2001.
So he has accumulated a lifetime of memories seeing boys enter the program, and leave as young men. Wilmot said this group is as special as any and especially since his son Jason is a running back on the team.
“They’re a great group of kids that I’ve been working with,” Wilmot said. “I’ve known Will Dunkley, I’ve known Kieron, I’ve known RJ (Esher) probably since they were ten years old when they were all playing baseball with my son.
“So there are three personalities that I’ve got to know, I’ve got to watch them grow up. Kyle (Nelson), I’ve known because he’s my son’s age. My son was friends with him. He didn’t play on that same baseball team.
“But I’ve to watch all these kids grow up. They all knew they wanted to be Neshaminy football players. This is the last year that they have to live out their dream. So, it’s kind of exciting to watch.”
The football club team scene is not as practical as it is in sports like baseball, basketball, soccer and hockey. You can
ground will accept. Eckhart said the key to getting the winning culture back is to stay in the moment.
“Take it game by game,” said Eckhart, who listed Jalen Hurts as his favorite NFL player “Through the whole o season [the battle cry] was ‘10-0.’ But at the same time we have to think of going 1-0 every week.”
Junior running back Carter Clee said the same thing about the Skins O-line, “I’ve been playing with these guys since eighth grade,” Clee said. “It’s been about three years now and they’ve been blocking for me the whole time.
Nelson (center) talked about how the line developed.
play on club and recreational teams for decades after high school. Football is a collision sport.
There is just not the same interest for guys, who aren’t going to play in college, to invest their time to training, pay for equipment and deal with injuries that come with playing a collision sport.
So, that last high school season is an emotional one. “Without a doubt,” Wilmot agreed.
NESHAMINY PLAYERS CHIMED IN ON THEIR OWN EXPECTATIONS
In an interview session with six Neshaminy players a week before their open-
er, each talked about their teammates, their expectations for the upcoming season and how to get back to having winning seasons at Neshaminy. They seemed to have great vision for their goals.
Junior quarterback Michael Eckhart was asked about having four seniors on his o ensive line.
“It gives me a lot of confidence,” Eckhart said after practice in August. “I’ve known these guys since I was playing Little League baseball and youth football. I trust them and know they will get the job done.”
Neshaminy went 4-6 in 2023. Obviously not the place a program with this back-
“Last year we had a lot of depth including most of our O-Lineman this year,” said Nelson, who lists Miles Sanders, Zach Martin and Jason Kelce as the NFL players he most admires. “Pretty much all our O-lineman got experience in varsity games so we had a lot of confidence that once game one came around, they would be prepared to perform at the best of our ability.”
Nelson’s prediction?
“I think 10-0 is easily the goal,” he said. “I think it’s a very attainable goal. We have to work week-by-week and prepare for each game. Once the playo s come around and we’re definitely aiming for it…we just need to keep performing.”
Esher (RJ) talked about the history behind Neshaminy football that had bloodlines for him.
“I’ve had a lot of family members go to Neshaminy,” said Esher, who revealed Justin Je erson and Jason Kelce are his favorite NFL players. “Most of the time when they were here, they had winning records. I know this is a winning program with winning records.
“Coach Wilmot has been here for a while. He told us how Neshaminy teams are always tough and strong.”
“RJ” said when he refers to being strong, he is also referring to the weight room where the culture Wilmot has created over the years is legendary.
“We always try to look up to the winning teams to get our maxes on the bench and squat up to them, try to match them...I think we’re better than them this year.”
How does he transfer the weight room vibe to the field?
“We always cheer for each other,” Esher said. “We try to make each other better every day. When we do best-on-best against each other, we’re always trying to
PHOTO BY AL THOMPSON
Players hope the August grind will pay o in November.
PHOTO BY JESSE GARBER
Neshaminy head coach Steve Wilmot has been a member of the Skins coaching sta since 1995.
PHOTO BY JESSE GARBER
Edge rusher Shaakir Whiting heads for a big play against Council Rock North.
push each other to get better -on the field and in the weight room.
“Whenever we’re lifting and someone is struggling, everybody groups up and cheers for that player.”
Durnin talked about the fraternal nature of O-linemen.
“I think it can be really special,” Durnin said. “Especially since we have four senior o ensive linemen that we’ve blocked together for the last three years now. I think we’ve really bonded with each other. We trust each other to do good.
“I love football,” continued Durnin, who lists Brian Dawkins and Jalen Hurts as his favorite Eagles. “I’ve been watching football since I was little with my dad. I’ve loved every year watching it and love it even more since I’ve been playing it.”
Dunkley was asked about the Neshaminy legacy.
“At Neshaminy, we have a winning tradition,” Dunkley said. “We’ve had a rough couple of years, but we hope to bring that back. I’ve had lots of family that’s played here that have been on great teams.
“I just want to hold up to that standard
and bring honor and pride back to Neshaminy.”
What does Dunkley think has to happen for the Skins to get to where they want to go?
“It relies on trust,” he said. “I trust all my brothers out here I’ve been playing with since we were 10 year’s old and playing baseball together. We have to pick each other up, keep it going and never stop.”
WILMOT SAYS THE LOVE OF FOOTBALL CAN CARRY A TEAM A LONG WAY
The Neshaminy football team has a tough schedule in front of them, starting with a tough North Penn team. It is unlikely the Skins will go undefeated, but the love of the game can make them want to try for perfection.
The coach said love of the game and the love to compete is an attribute he looks for in every player he coaches.
“Without a doubt,” Wilmot said. “You can tell right away who loves it and who doesn’t. It’s a grind. And the people who love the grind are going to excel in those really, really hard practices.
“In those really hard practices, if you
don’t really embrace and love it, you’re not going to have the best practice. Yeah, you’ve got to love the game and love what you do. You’ve got to love the hard work or you’re not going to excel.” ••
Some stats from neshaminyfootball. com
DL Moise Woodolf battles against Council Rock North.
TOP HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAMS
Footballstories urges players across the Delaware Valley to play fair and clean. Please be aware that there are many social media accounts that are recruiting young people to enter the dark side of steroid use. Listen to your parents, coaches and teachers for guidance.
CAMDEN, IMHOTEP, SALESIANUM OFF TO HOT STARTS... HOLD TOP SPOTS IN FOOTBALLSTORIES HIGH SCHOOL RANKINGS
SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA TOP 20
1. Imhotep Institute (3-0)
2. LaSalle (3-0)
3. St. Joseph’s Prep (1-1)
4. Downingtown West (3-0)
5. Malvern Prep (1-1)
6. Central Bucks South (3-0)
7. North Penn (3-0)
8. Central Bucks West (2-1)
9. Roman Catholic (3-0)
10. Haverford School (3-0)
SOUTH JERSEY TOP 20
1. Camden (2-0)
2. Mainland (2-0)
3. Winslow Township (2-0)
4. Delsea {0-1}
5. St. Augustine (2-0)
6. Cherokee (2-0)
7. Millville (2-0)
11. Strath Haven (3-0)
12. Chester (2-1)
13. Springfield (3-0)
14. Neshaminy (3-0)
15. Bonner/Prendie (2-0)
16. Garnet Valley (3-0)
17. Bayard Rustin (3-0)
18. Pope John Paul II (Royersford) (2-1)
19. Marple Newtown (2-1)
20. Ridley (3-1)
20. Coatesville (2-1)
20. Springside Chestnut Hill Academy (2-0) ALSO HAVING GREAT SEASONS: Wyomissing (2-1), Owen J. Roberts (3-0). Perkiomen Valley (1-2), William Penn Charter (2-0), SpringFord (1-2), Souderton (1-2), Downingtown East (1-2), Council Rock South (1-2), Phoenixville (20)), Plymouth Whitemarsh (2-1).
8. Hun School (2-0)
9. Haddonfield (2-0)
10. Timber Creek (2-0)
11. Glassboro (1-0)
12. Shawnee (2-0)
13. Woodstown (1-0)
14. Cedar Creek (2-0)
15. Willingboro (2-1)
16. Washington Township (2-0)
17. Florence (1-1)
19. Rancocas Valley (1-1)
20. Seneca (1-1)
20. Cinnaminson (1-1)
La Salle College High School o ensive lineman Chris Bernesky blocks for running back Josh Simmons in a scrimmage against Neshaminy. The Explorers are ranked No. 2 in the Footballstories Magazine SE PA High School rankings after starting the season with three quality wins.
DESERVES A LOOK: Holy Spirit (1-1) Woodbury (0-1), Paul VI (1-1), Lawrenceville (1-1), Burlington City (1-1), Haddon Heights (0-1), Gloucester City (1-0), Kingsway (1-1), Pennsauken (0-1), Ocean City (2-0).
DELAWARE TOP 10
1. Salesianum (2-0)
2. Caravel (1-0)
3. Cape Henlopen (1-0)
4. Sussex Central (1-0)
5. Middletown (1-1)
6. Tatnall (1-0)
7. Dover (0-1)
8. Archmere Academy (1-0)
9. Appoquinimink (1-0)
10. St. Mark’s (1-0)
10. Delaware Military Academy (2-0)
10. Polytech (1-0)
HONORABLE MENTION: Hodgson Vo-Tech (1-1), Wilmington Friends (0-1), Red Lion Christian Academy (1-1), Smyrna (0-2), Howard (0-1).
PHOTO BY JESSE GARBER
PHOTO BY AL THOMPSON
Camden High School’s Haleem Muhammad (DE/TE) has the top ranked Panthers o to a 2-0 start.
and wide receiver DeVonta Smith 7 catches, 84 yards) into the attack.
The result: The Eagles scored 34 points, rang up 410 yards and did it all despite three Hurts giveaways (he threw an end zone interception early in the fourth quarter).
“We have things to clean up, things to work on and we’ll do that,” Hurts said. “Every step of this is going to be a challenge because we know we’re getting every teams’ best shot. We have to be on top of our game and that is the goal.
“The bottom line is that we went to Brazil and won a game against a great team. We’re 1-0, and we have a lot more to do and accomplish this season.” ••
Jalen Hurts at a recent practice. He is a man of few words.
JURGENS
2024 PHILADELPHIA EAGLES SCHEDULE
Sunday, November 24 at Los Angeles Rams 8:20 p.m.+ NBC
Sunday, December 1 at Baltimore Ravens 4:25 p.m.+ CBS
Sunday, December 8 Carolina Panthers 1:00 p.m.+ FOX
Sunday, December 15 Pittsburgh Steelers 4:25 p.m.+ FOX
Sunday, December 22 at Washington Commanders 1:00 p.m.+ FOX
Sunday December 29 Dallas Cowboys 4:25 p.m.+ FOX TBD* New York Giants TBD TBD POSTSEASON
Saturday, January 11; Sunday, January 12; Monday, January 13 –AFC and NFC Wild Card Playo s Saturday, January 18; Sunday, January 19 –AFC and NFC Divisional Playo s Sunday, January 26 –AFC and NFC Championship Games
Sunday, February 9 –Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, LA (FOX) All games will be broadcast live on 94.1 WIP
PRESEASON
Sunday, November 3 Jacksonville Jaguars 8:20 p.m.+ NBC Sunday, November 10 at Dallas Cowboys 4:25 p.m. CBS Thursday, November 14 Washington Commanders 8:15 p.m. Prime Video REGULAR SEASON
Friday, August 9 at Baltimore Ravens W 16-13
Thursday, August 15 at New England Patriots W 14-13
Saturday, August 24 Minnesota Vikings L 26-3 REGULAR SEASON
Friday, September 6 Green Bay Packers W 34-29
Monday, September 16 Atlanta Falcons 8:15 p.m. ESPN^
Sunday, September 22 at New Orleans Saints 1:00 p.m. FOX
Sunday, September 29 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers 1:00 p.m. FOX
BYE
Sunday, October 13 Cleveland Browns 1:00 p.m.+ FOX
Sunday, October 20 at New York Giants 1:00 p.m.+ FOX
Sunday, October 27 at Cincinnati Bengals 4:25 p.m.+ CBS
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the game, Baun, the former New Orleans Saints linebacker, lined up on the right side of the Birds defensive line like he was going to blitz.
He had rushed the passer a number of times from that position, so Love and the Packers o ensive line expected him to be blitzing.
Instead of blitzing, he dropped into pass coverage in the middle of the field and picked up the coverage of Green Bay tight end Luke Musgrave who was running an inside crossing route from the other side of the field.
The unexpected presence of Baun in the middle of the field on Musgrave forced Love to hold the ball longer than he wanted to do.
The Baun disruption delayed the release of the pass for a split second and that helped Eagles safety Reed Blankenship to sneak into the passing lanes from downfield and make a game changing interception.
It was a great play by both Baun and Blankenship, but Baun seemed to be making plays everywhere on the Birds defense.
Reed Blankenship - shown here in OTAs - had a game-changing interception against Green Bay in Brazil that was set up by Zack Baun.
Think about it, Baun was putting pressure on the Packers quarterback by beating the blocks made by the Green Bay o ensive line. He had two sacks in the game in addition to that big play that he
made when he helped cause the interception by Blankenship.
Fittingly with three seconds to go and the Eagles protecting a five point lead, Packers back up quarterback Malik Wil-
lis was trying to throw a “Hail Mary” pass, when Baun came o of his pass coverage and sacked the veteran quarterback to seal the Birds victory.
Amazingly, Baun was not selected as the NFC Defensive Player of the Week and I have to express my disagreement with the selection of the Bears cornerback, Tyrique Stevenson, who had four tackles, an interception and a touchdown.
I think they should have had Baun and Stevenson share the award this week. For Baun to have had 15 tackles, two sacks and forced Love to throw a key interception, he should have at least shared the award with Stevenson.
Still, it’s very early in the season and the Birds need Baun to continue to play at that amazingly high level. The Eagles have a tremendously talented team, but they’re going to need to play better. They will need to play their very best football in order to beat the Dallas Cowboys, the San Francisco 49ers and the Detroit Lions.
I think the Eagles, Cowboys, 49ers or the Lions will be representing the NFC in the Super Bowl in New Orleans. I know it’s still very early, but that’s what I see. •
PHOTO BY ANDY LEWIS
NOVA’S SOLID START IS LIVING UP TO EXPECTATIONS
Coming into the 2024 season, expectations are high at Villanova; after making the quarterfinals of the NCAA FCS Playo s, the Wildcats started the season ranked in the top 10 and were picked to win the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) championship.
In the 2023 playo s, the ‘Cats lost to South Dakota State but gave the Jackrabbits their most competitive game in their run to a second straight National Championship. It was 17-12 early in the fourth quarter before the ‘Jacks won 23-12.
and entered 2022 with the weight of expectations only to stumble to a 6-5 mark. The veteran players on the team are committed to making history, not repeating it.
BY ROCK HOFFMAN COLLEGE FOOTBALL EDITOR
The Wildcats have been in a similar situation before, they lost to South Dakota State in the 2021 quarterfinals
“We’ve already spoken about it as a team,” said cornerback Isas Waxter, a second-team AllCAA player in 2023, “us being rated number one and the last time that happened. For us as a program, we don’t like to shy away from anything, we always say, ‘Pressure makes diamonds.’
So that’s the pressure, being considered number one is not something for us to shy away [from]. It just means we have to work a little
harder to make that come to reality for us.”
“Coming out of the ‘21 season, everybody thought we were going to be good and that was when I was stepping in to play quarterback,” added Connor
rience.
“The ‘22 season went the way it did, and that was a reality check for a lot of us, especially me. So, going into last season, how do we prevent any hiccups that we could face throughout the year? How do we get everybody bought into the same message and that’s where ‘we over me came in’.
“We really lived it. So, I think it’s that kind of mentality and bringing everybody together and doing things for the greater good of the team that put us in the position we were last year and something that we’ve tried to keep going into this season.”
Through two games, Watkins has proven to be a dual threat, in the season opener against Youngstown State, he ran for 107 yards and a pair of touchdowns while completing just six passes for 90 yards in the 24-17 win.
In week two, a 28-3 win at Colgate, he threw for two scores, both of which went to newcomer Devin Smith, a firstteam All-MEAC performer in 2023, who transferred to Villanova. Watkins finished with 247 yards passing plus 18 yards and a touchdown on six runs.
At 6-3, 225, Watkins can be a physical runner who on occasion will leave his feat to leap over would-be tacklers.
“Coaches are always going to try and see the big picture,” said the Williamsport native. “I think players are competitors and they’re in the moment. They’re going to do what they feel they need to do to make the plays. They’re going to tell me afterward if I do something they think is stupid, but he realizes I’m going to play my game regardless.”
Watkins, the preseason CAA Offensive Player of the Year. “We’re coming o the CAA championship [and] I’m excited to play with these guys that have expe-
Or as head coach Mark Ferrante said, “Connor’s going to do what Connor does.”
The hope on the Main Line is that Watkins and a talented veteran group do a lot. •
Connor Watkins, the preseason CAA O ensive Player of the Year.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VILLANOVA ATHLETICS
Cornerback Isas Waxter was a second-team All-CAA player in 2023
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PHOTO
ANDY LEWIS
THREE OBSERVATIONS TO START THE SEASON
The NFL season is a long and grueling campaign that for 31 of 32 teams ends without that parade that makes the sacrifices along the journey seem worth it. We are far away from seeing if our prognostications on how things will play out in full were spot on or were as unfounded as they typically tend to be.
BY MATT SANTOLERI
That doesn’t mean we can’t read the tea leaves from Week 1 and make some bold statements on what is to come.
Here are three things that I think weren’t just a flash in the pan, but maybe portentous signs of what will play out over the next seventeen weeks of the regular season.
ure with Houston came to an end. Cleveland made the head scratching to say the least, and flat-out deplorable decision to say the most, to not only trade for the seemingly talented but tainted quarterback, but then go on to give him the largest and most lucrative contract an NFL player had ever signed up to that point.
We are now two years and 13 games of action for Watson with a Browns jersey on removed from this saga and Cleveland has not only put itself in fiscal jail for its irresponsible decision-making but have irreparably damaged its image with fans, all for below-average play on-field.
Over his 13-game tenure that has been stricken by league mandated suspensions of 11 games and season ending shoulder surgery, Watson has averaged 184 yards, 1.15 passing TD’s, 57.6 CMP percent, and a 71.5 QB RTG.
To put that into perspective, 38-year-old Joe Flacco averaged 323 yards, 2.6 passing TD’s, 60.3 CMP percent, and a 90.2 QB RTG while going 4-1 last year to push the Browns into a playo berth after Watson went down.
To add insult to injury, his former team the Houston Texans, are trending way up after Watson left town in large part because of the assets they gained from the Watson trade and Baker Mayfield who was jettisoned after the team acquired Watson has gone through a full-blown revival in Tampa Bay.
1. Saquon Barkley is everything as advertised for the Philadelphia Eagles.
When Howie Roseman inked Barkley to a threeyear, $37.75 million contract in free agency, the deal was met with heaps of excitement and praise from majority of Eagles fans who had watched the Penn State product from afar, but also some push back from the analytical community over these resources being poured into an RB.
After his performance on Friday night of 24 carries, 109 rushing yards, 2 rushing TD’s along with 2 receptions for 23 yards and a TD, I think we can put to bed the rumors of an “overpay”.
Jalen Hurts showed some poise bouncing back from some horrendous play ear-
ly in the game and the defense kept them in it despite the negative performance by their franchise QB, but it was Barkley who wrestled this game in Philadelphia’s favor.
When the team desperately needed a spark, it was Barkley who gave it to them, scoring the game's first touchdown to give Philly their first lead and finishing with a rushing touchdown to give the Eagles the lead in the third quarter which they never would give up.
Hurts has to undeniably be better if this team is going to compete for a championship, but Barkley gives them a shot to win games along the way as he irons out his deficiencies.
2. Deshaun Watson is an on-the-field issue for Cleveland now too.
There is no need to rehash all of the alleged issues that Watson has brought with him to Cleveland from an o -the-field perspective. Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past two seasons, you’re probably familiar with how Watson’s ten-
Watson’s play is dashing any hopes for the Browns to compete in an ultra-competitive AFC North and to make matters worse, was just recently accused of even more sexual misconduct this week dating back to an incident in 2020.
I don’t know if Watson and the Browns have hit rock bottom yet and that’s truly saying something.
3. No McCa rey, No Problem for San Francisco.
Word came out a few hours before kicko that All-Pro RB Christian McCaffrey would miss the Niners season opener against the Aaron Rodgers led NY Jets and former undrafted RB Jordan Mason would be stepping into the starting role.
There has since been interesting comments and developments that have the Niners drawing scrutiny for possible late reporting on the extent of McCa rey’s Achilles/Calf injury, but while plenty of questions are being levied HC Kyle Shanahan’s way about the matter, no one is questioning whether Mason has the juice to buoy San Francisco’s run game in the
PHOTO BY ANDY LEWIS
Eagles Saquon Barkley was everything the Eagles asked for and more.
PHOTO BY ERIK DROST - WIKIPEDIA.COM
QB Deshaun Watson may be the worst acquisition in Cleveland Browns history.
meantime.
The Georgia Tech alum tallied up 152 all-purpose yards and 1 TD on 29 touches keeping the o ense on schedule, propelling the Niners to commanding 32-19 victory over a Jets team that has lofty expectations.
Mason provides a Niners team that has struggled to complete the mission in hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, with 4 NFC Championship berths and 2 Super Bowl berths since 2020, more than a reliably safe floor in case the reigning O ensive POTY misses more time than anticipated.
His ability to see it, read it, and get up field to take what is available is exactly what makes a talented back in a Shanahan o ense so dangerous.
With o season holdouts LT Trent Williams and WR Brandon Aiyuk locked into big deals this team has all of its chips pushed in to win now so a major injury that keeps their star RB out for a few games could have been a big detriment to their championship hopes.
Kyle Shanahan’s o ensive genius and Jordan Mason’s athletic ability look like they could stave o the rest of the NFC’s contenders and give the Niners someone who they could turn to in spurts to make sure McCa rey stays healthy after his return. ••
Email Matt Santoleri at m.santoleri13@gmail.com
49ers All-Pro RB Christian McCa rey will likely miss the first two games of the season. It has not hurt his team so far.
Verchio’s
PHOTOS BY ANDY LEWIS
Head coach Kyle Shanahan's system works regardless of the players.
ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!
These guys may not feel like it at this very moment, but their bodies are made up of 60 percent water!. Council Rock North vs. Neshaminy 2024.
BY BRIAN LANGE
It’s that time of year. Camps and two-adays are over, pre-season is in the rearview mirror…
Let the games begin!
Coaches, athletes, parents and fans are excited for another season!
But… as a player, are you prepared to play?
Having the fighting spirit and drive to succeed is a great start to putting out your best, but what you do before, during and
after practice (and games) will determine your Peak Performance!
Your body needs fuel to be at the top of your game. That includes a variety of factors.
Here are a few things you can do to be best positioned for success.
Pre-practice/game:
Your body is made up of 60 percent water, so hydration is key. If you aren’t properly hydrated before you even start, you’re already in a performance deficit.
A couple of hours before your activity,
During practice/game:
Drinking small amounts of fluid throughout will help ward o dehydration. Don’t wait till you’re “thirsty” to drink.
Dehydration leads to poor performance, fatigue, decreased mental alertness and heat related illnesses.
Quality sports drinks with less sugar (6% is good), will help fuel your muscles. If you are feeling dizzy, lightheaded, nauseous or just general fatigue, let your coach or trainer know. Don’t let a small issue turn into a big problem.
Post practice/game:
It’s not abnormal for an athlete to lose 5-10 pounds during a game or practice, especially if it is hot and humid. Hydration… have I mentioned that before ??, is key to recovery and sets the stage for your next outing. Weighing yourself before and after practice will tell you how much weight you lost.
Research shows that for every 1lb of weight loss, you should consume 16-20oz. of fluid. This isn’t a “guzzle till you fill up” refill. Rehydration should be done over the next several hours. Again, see the previous list of drinks not to consume. Think fluids with electrolytes and water.
“Food” re-fuel is vital as well. I personally like to drink a bottle of chocolate milk not long after my workout. It has a great blend of nutrients that your body can use rather quickly.
Next, a well-balanced meal of healthy carbs, protein, and good fats should be on the menu within an hour or so after competition.
Also, don’t forget some other great recovery tools. Stretching, massage, cold showers/baths are just a few modalities that can provide huge benefits to your recovery.
drink around 20oz. of fluid. Another 1015 oz. 30 minutes before.
Water, quality sports drinks or fluid with electrolytes are best. Everyone’s stomach tolerates fluids di erently so be aware of that. Stay away from carbonated, ca einated, alcohol or energy drinks.
Eat a well-rounded meal of proteins, carbohydrates and healthy fats 3-4 hours before your event. Best to have that digested before you hit the field. Avoid processed and fried foods. Again, everyone tolerates food and drink di erently so see what combinations work best for you.
Lastly… Sleep. Get it!!! Your body breaks down during exercise. It rebuilds, cleans out and rejuvenates during sleep. Don’t skimp on it.
Put this information into practice and you will reap your performance reward. Being prepared is half the battle… Have a great season!
Keep moving forward… ••
Brian Lange writes on fitness and sport specific training. He has been training clients and athletes for over 30 years. You can reach Brian at fit4battle@juno.com
PHOTO BY JESSE GARBER
PHOTO BY ANDY LEWIS
shown here at practice - received solid reviews in his debut from most observers.
29 points in the game, which is way too much. As bad as they were last year, the Eagles only gave up 414 or more yards five times.
As bad as they were, they only gave up 29 points or more six times.
The Packers rushed for 163 yards. Last year, the Eagles only gave up 160-plus rushing yards twice – in back-to-back weeks to Bu alo and Kansas City.
The defense gave up most of those 163 rushing yards on chunk plays. One hundred nineteen of those 163 yards came on five runs of 33-, 32-, 22-, 18- and 14-yard runs. Can’t keep happening if this team is serious about making a Super Bowl run.
“The one thing we need to clean up is our tackling,’’ Sirianni said. “We have to make sure we’re not giving them extra yards. That’s something that’s on our mind. We worked a lot on it throughout camp, but we have to keep working on it and being really diligent about that.”
A few players on the defense had underwhelming performances against the Packers and need to pick it up. That includes defensive tackle Jordan Davis and edge rushers Bryce Hu and Nolan Smith. Davis might as well have stayed home last week. If a 350-pound guy can be invisible, Davis was invisible against the Packers.
The 2022 first-rounder played just 35 snaps and didn’t make a dent in the stat sheet. Didn’t have a tackle or assist or hurry. He’s starting to look like a guy who wants to be a first-round bust.
might want to get Baun’s agent on the phone ASAP and start talking about an extension.
“I think one real good shot of his incredible motor was when he came o the edge on a play and they threw a little bubble screen to their running back and he peeled o ,’’
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said. “[Safety] Reed [Blankenship] made the guy cut back in and Zack came and hit him right on the side and got a hit in on the ball that jarred it a little bit.
“The guy did a good job of hanging on to the football. But I think it’s a good example of how Zack has played throughout camp. A great indicator of how you’re going to play in games is how you practice. He’s been relentless to the football. Relentless e ort. That really showed up against Green Bay.’’
Rookie first-round corner Quinyan
Mitchell also turned in a solid performance Friday in his NFL debut. He started on the outside opposite Darius Slay
and played 94 percent of the defensive snaps. He’s going to be a keeper.
Right from the start, he showed that the game wasn’t too big for him. He played with the confidence of a seasoned veteran.
The former Toledo star broke up a third-and-six pass to Packers wide receiver Christian Watson and also broke up a second-and-10 pass to tight end Luke Musgrave and a first-down throw to wideout Dontayvion Wicks.
“He’s very calm and very confident, which you need to be to be at corner in this league,’’ Sirianni said. “His poise wasn’t surprising. He doesn’t get too up and he doesn’t get too down.
“He’s been able to go against AJ (Brown) and DeVonta (Smith) throughout camp. That’s obviously a huge advantage; that he gets to play against two of the best receivers in the game every day at practice.’’
That’s the good news. The bad news is the Packers amassed 414 yards and
Roseman’s big-ticket o season acquisition, edge rusher Bryce Hu , who signed a three-year, $51 million free agent deal with the Eagles, also turned in a nothingburger performance Friday.
Roseman traded away incredibly productive Haason Reddick, who had notched 50 ½ sacks the previous four years but was about to turn 30, and signed the four-years-younger Hu , gambling that Hu could develop into an every-down edge-rusher and replace Reddick’s sack productivity.
In his first game with the Eagles, Hu played just 30 snaps and didn’t have a quarterback sack, hit or hurry.
The same with the second of the Eagles’ two 2022 first-round picks, edge rusher Nolan Smith. The undersized Smith had one sack in 188 defensive snaps as a rookie.
Against the Packers, in 31 snaps, he, like Hu , recorded goose eggs.
Fangio and the defense needs more, much, much more from both of them.••
PHOTO BY JESSE GARBER
Eagles rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell (No. 30) -
Eagles linebacker Zack Baun got high marks all around for his performance against the Packers in Brazil.
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From left: Landon Dickerson, Lane Johnson and Jordan
UNSTOPPABLE EAGLES BIG THREE ON THE O-LINE PHILADELPHIA EAGLES 2024 SCHEDULE
may be the three best linemen on one team in the NFL.
Friday, August 9 at Baltimore Ravens W 16-13
Thursday, August 15 at New England Patriots W 14-13
Saturday, August 24 Minnesota Vikings L 26-3 REGULAR SEASON
Friday, September 6 Green Bay Packers W 34-29
Monday, September 16 Atlanta Falcons 8:15 p.m. ESPN^
Sunday, September 22 at New Orleans Saints 1:00 p.m. FOX
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Sunday, October 13 Cleveland Browns 1:00 p.m.+ FOX
Sunday, October 20 at New York Giants 1:00 p.m.+ FOX
Sunday, October 27 at Cincinnati Bengals 4:25 p.m.+ CBS
Sunday, November 3 Jacksonville Jaguars 8:20 p.m.+ NBC
Sunday, November 10 at Dallas Cowboys 4:25 p.m. CBS Thurs., Nov. 14 Washington Commanders 8:15 p.m. Prime Video
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