Rams vs Eagles Preview: Eagles’ Injury Woes, Stafford’s Threat & What to Expect in Week 3 NFC Showdown

shariarehasin@gmail.com

3 weeks ago

Background Context

The Philadelphia Eagles enter Week 3 at 2-0, with wins over Dallas and Kansas City. Their offense has been efficient but not explosive; passing downfield has lagged, and they’ve leaned on their “tush push” short-yardage package. The offensive line, especially Lane Johnson and others, have dealt with injuries.
The Los Angeles Rams are also 2-0, having defeated Texas and the Titans in close games. Their passing game (Matthew Stafford + Davante Adams, Puka Nacua) has shown sparks, and defensively they’ve been sound but tested. The Rams are motivated to get a statement win on the road.
This matchup is a rematch of their playoff encounter from the 2024 season (Divisional Round), which the Eagles won in close fashion. The teams have familiarity with each other. The stakes? High — both still undefeated, both trying to establish NFC dominance early.

Lane Johnson suffered a neck injury in the first quarter, and is listed as questionable to return. Matt Pryor is filling in at RT. The absence or limitation of Johnson could affect pass protection for Jalen Hurts.
Eagles have several notable inactives for this game: Azeez Ojulari, Ogbo Okoronkwo, Drew Kendall, Kenyon Green, RB Will Shipley, Patrick Johnson, and emergency QB Tanner McKee among them. This reduces depth, particularly at edge/rushing and blocking roles. (
Positive news: Tight end Dallas Goedert returns to action. Also Cameron Latu is elevated from practice squad again, bringing some depth. Safety Marcus Epps has been elevated for the third time this season.

Braden Fiske (DE) is listed as questionable with an oblique injury but expected to play. His return will help bolster the pass rush against Hurts.
Steve Avila, left guard, is doubtful. The Rams will need to adjust their interior blocking if Avila can’t go.
In response to their secondary being stretched, particularly with injuries / absences, the Rams recently signed Tre Brown, a cornerback, to add depth after placing Ahkello Witherspoon (clavicle injury) on IR. This will be a factor in how they defend against Eagles’ receivers.

Quarterback matchup: Jalen Hurts vs Matthew Stafford. Hurts has been efficient so far but under pressure often. Stafford has had some big plays, and with Adams & Nacua, has weapons. Will Eagles’ pass rush generate pressure? Rams need to protect Stafford well.
Running game and the “Tush Push”: Eagles have leaned on short-yardage and “tush push” goal line plays. Their effectiveness in converting 4th-and-1s or goal line situations will matter.
Edge / pass rush battle: Eagles are missing several edge rushers, which could affect their ability to disrupt Stafford. Rams’ defensive front including Fiske returning (if healthy) may challenge Eagles’ O-line, particularly with Lane Johnson injured.
Special teams / field position: Both teams tend to emphasize field position. The Eagles’ inactives could lead to lapses in depth for special teams. The Rams’ secondary changes may influence how much risk Eagles take in the kick game.

Date & Time: Sunday, September 21, 2025, 1:00 PM ET at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
TV: Fox will broadcast. Stream options include FuboTV, NFL+ (where available). Local TV/radio outlets also likely covering.
Odds: Eagles opened as ~ -3.5 point favorites. Over/Under approx 44.5.

From the live updates:

Early in the game, Zack Baun intercepts Matthew Stafford on the Rams’ opening drive. Huge momentum builder for Eagles.
Eagles open with a Tush Push touchdown by Jalen Hurts after a penalty initially helped flip field position. (Hurts’ short run on a goal line push).
Rams respond with a 44-yard touchdown to Davante Adams on a quick passing strike after getting space, giving them lead in first quarter.
Eagles’ offense struggles a bit when Johnson is out — a few three-and-outs and negative plays. Rams capitalize with field position advantage.

Q1 ✔️@AveryDennison | #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/fIOupPyPok

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 21, 2025

Based on current roster health, momentum, coaching, and matchup:

Eagles have the home field, better defensive depth (in general) and special teams momentum, but injuries up front hurt them.
Rams’ offense via Stafford + Adams + Nacua can make explosive plays; if their O-line holds, they can pressure Hurts and force mistakes.
Prediction lean: Eagles win a close one, something like 27-24 or 30-24, depending on whether they can control possession and run game. If Rams get off to fast start, could flip.

[Note: Images are collected from Instagram]

A win for Eagles would make them 3-0 and strengthen their claim as the NFC favorite. It would also ease pressure on offensive line health and signal resilience.
For Rams, a win on the road vs a top team helps with confidence and helps in divisional tiebreakers. A close loss or win will both provide data — but injuries (Avila, secondary) could shape their defensive consistency.
Monitor how Eagles adjust their offensive play calling given Johnson’s situation and inactive edge rushers. Rams need to figure out how to adapt with depth moves like the addition of Tre Brown.