Kenneth Gainwell's injury shouldn't affect game plan for Eagles
On Wednesday, it was announced that Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell would miss the team's home opener against the Minnesota Vikings due to a rib injury. Gainwell joins defensive backs James Bradberry and Reed Blankenship on the inactive list for Thursday night, while defensive tackle Fletcher Cox is considered questionable.
On the surface, this would appear to be a crushing blow for Philadelphia. Gainwell had the most touches of any Eagle in their week one win over the New England Patriots, gaining a combined 74 yards on 14 carries and four receptions.
As productive as Gainwell is, however, his injury doesn't spell doom for the Eagles.
For one, there is depth in the running game. The Eagles signed former Detroit Lions running back and Philadelphia native D'Andre Swift in the offseason, only to see him tally one carry for three yards last Sunday. Another offseason addition was former Seattle Seahawks running back Rashaad Penny, who was a healthy scratch in week one. Both Swift and Penny have had trouble staying healthy in their careers, but the Eagles should use them to their fullest while they can.
Additionally, even if Gainwell were healthy, this is a matchup in which Philadelphia will have to rely on the passing game. Last season, the Vikings allowed an NFC-worst 4,515 passing yards, only trailing the Tennessee Titans for the most in the league. They were on the lower end in sacks as well, tallying 38 compared to the Eagles' league-leading 70. Against the run, Minnesota's defense was marginally better. Their 2,093 rushing yards allowed were 13th most of any team. Still not good, but better than allowing the second-most passing yards.
Last season's defensive trends continued in the Vikings' week one loss to Tampa Bay last Sunday. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield was an efficient 21-for-34 with 173 passing yards and two touchdowns. But on the ground, the Bucs only managed 73 rushing yards on 33 carries.
It's clear that Philadelphia will need to emphasize the passing game on Thursday night, an approach they already took in week one. Dual-threat quarterback Jalen Hurts threw 33 passes and only ran the ball nine times against New England. Will the Eagles miss Kenneth Gainwell? Of course. But a favorable matchup against a poor Minnesota secondary should still allow them to gain ground.
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