The most promising news under-reported from Sunday’s 34-3 stunner of the Steelers? How about this one: Wendell Smallwood, 17 rushing attempts, 79 yards. Or this one: Kenjon Barner, eight attempts, 42 yards.
With Ryan Mathews limited to two carries because of a bad ankle, their combined effectiveness may have been as important as Carson Wentz’s passing and the four-sack, two-turnover, touchdown-denying Eagles defense.
Related players: Darren Sproles
The Eagles run game approach more resembles the Patriots over the years - varying backs getting the work depending on the opponent. Mathews has 22 carries in Week 1, but it was Sproles who led the way in Week 2. This week, Smallwood. Keep in mind Darren Sproles had a 70-yard TD reception. But, it does seem to indicate something we concluded back in summer: if Mathews isn't 100-percent it's Smallwood who could find himself with a big workload. Until Mathews is back close to 100-percent, this backfield appears to be a full-on committee situation. The Eagles have a bye in Week 4.
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