Nick Sirianni’s DeVonta Smith reality check exposes Eagles’ mindset amid losses

The Eagles are 4-2, but their two consecutive losses exposed significant cracks. Their offense, once a powerhouse, has sputtered to a halt in second halves. They rank a dismal 25th in rushing yards per game. Moreover, their offensive identity has seemingly vanished. This reality check from Sirianni is his step towards steering the team back on course. But the problems are multifaceted.

The offensive line isn't dominating like it did during their Super Bowl run. Saquon Barkley’s production has plummeted. He is on pace for fewer than 1,000 yards after a 2,000-yard season. The passing game lacks its usual rhythm, creating a cycle of predictable play-calling and poor execution. The team’s confidence appears shaken, a stark contrast to their bully-ball identity from last year.

Internally, leaders are pointing in different directions. Tackle Lane Johnson directly called the offense “predictable.” Conversely, his fellow lineman Jordan Mailata vehemently disagreed, insisting the issue is purely about execution and focus. Mailata declared, “Do your f—ing job. Dominate your job.”

This disagreement in perspective reveals a team still searching for unified answers. The mini-bye week provided a moment for introspection, but the path forward requires more than just talk.

Eagles' Test of Resilience in Minneapolis

Sirianni is now applying his core philosophy. He is preaching that adversity is a catalyst for growth, not a reason for defeat. He stated, “You can have two mindsets there. You can have a mindset of defeat, or you can have a mindset of get up and fix and identify issues.” His history supports this; the Eagles have rebounded from rough patches before.

They followed a 2-5 start in 2021 with a 6-2 run. More importantly, they braved the 2023 meltdown and turned a 2-2 start last year into a Super Bowl championship. This current skid is another test of their champion mettle. Now, the upcoming game against the Minnesota Vikings is a critical litmus test.

The Vikings boast a vulnerable run defense, presenting a perfect opportunity for the Eagles to reestablish their identity. So, they must get Barkley going early and often. A strong ground game would alleviate pressure on Jalen Hurts and open up the play-action passes that make this offense lethal. This game is less about the opponent and more about the Eagles confronting their own issues head-on.

Sirianni’s message is clear. Every team faces storms. The 1972 Miami Dolphins remain the only perfect team for a reason. The true measure of a team is not whether it avoids adversity, but how it responds to it. The Eagles’ championship DNA is now being questioned. Their leader has laid down the challenge, reminding them that perfection is a myth, but toughness is a choice.