Philadelphia Eagles: 5 biggest problems with offense

Sep 20, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) is hit after throwing a pass by Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Jack Crawford (58) during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Another Passing Problem

But look, Kelly and the Eagles knew about Bradford’s limitations when they traded for him, and you’d have to guess that they felt his quick decision-making and accuracy would overcome his lack of arm strength or deep ball ability. I mean, the Eagles didn’t just generate a high yards per reception average because of an elite deep threat or an aggressive downfield attack, Kelly excelled at finding ways to get his offensive weapons in space via the quick passing attack.

The chemistry just hasn’t been there, and Pro-Football Reference actually has Bradford docked with a whopping three interceptions on short passes. I say “whopping”, because no quarterback has thrown more picks on such passes. Not only that, but Bradford’s completion percentage is only 18th on such passes.

When you watch the Eagles, it’s clear that the rhythm just isn’t there for this passing attack. Bradford is actually getting plenty of time in the pocket, but he just can’t seem to find open receivers. He has the accuracy to fit tight windows, but he’s taking too many risks and is playing with a WR corps that just cannot generate separation right now.

What the Eagles receivers are doing, particularly Matthews, is generating yards after the catch, because they are third in the NFL in that department right now. Even though the Eagles are unacceptably dead last in yards at the catch, you can’t blame the wide receivers for not trying to make something happen with the ball in their hands.

You can, however, blame them for drops. Only the Houston Texans pass-catchers have dropped more passes as a team this season, and Matthews himself accounts for three of the Eagles recorded drops so far this season.

Next: General Inefficiency