Philadelphia Eagles: 3 Key players to beating Falcons in Divisional Round

SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 03: Running back Jay Ajayi (Photo by Otto Greule Jr /Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA - DECEMBER 03: Running back Jay Ajayi (Photo by Otto Greule Jr /Getty Images) /
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ARLINGTON, TX – NOVEMBER 19: Ronald Darby (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX – NOVEMBER 19: Ronald Darby (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

3. Ronald Darby, CB

A huge key to the game Saturday will be stopping the explosive Julio Jones. The Falcons No. 1 receiver is a game changer who goes for big yardage in the blink of an eye. He’s not the only receiver that can cause damage though.

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Mohamed Sanu is another guy to keep an eye on. The team’s second receiver is the master of hauling in contested catches and key third-down conversions. Philly has a strong defense, and keeping these guys in check will be key to their success.

That’s where Ronald Darby comes in. The cornerback they acquired in a preseason trade has played exceptionally well and could see himself lined up with both receivers during this game. Philly won’t be leaving Darby on an island every snap, but the times he’s asked to run step-for-step with one of these play makers, he needs to step up.

Atlanta has struggled to find consistency on offense all season long. If they’re allowed to get into any kind of rhythm, that could be disastrous as they’ve proven to be deadly when they do get things rolling.

Of course, in a game where the defense will be key, several members of this unit could make the list. For now, Darby is the key because of the level of talent he will line up against.