Eagles-Broncos scouting report

Eagles: DeSean Jackson leads the NFL in punt returns with a 17.3-yard average. Over his last four games, he's averaging 29.0. On Sunday, he'll be taking aim at a Bronco punt coverage unit that is ranked 26th in the league. Eagles' punt coverage unit is one of the best in the league, but they are 24th in kickoff coverage.

Broncos: KR/PR Eddie Royal is one of the league's top returners. He's already got two TDs on returns this season. PK Matt Prater has made 16 of his last 17 field goal attempts. He's got a strong leg. Also has an AFC-high 22 touchbacks. Broncos' coverage units have been a liability. They are 26th in punt coverage and 17th in kickoff coverage.

PICK: EAGLES

Key matchups

 

1. Eagles LT Jason Peters vs. Broncos ROLB Elvis Dumervil. Dumervil has an NFL-high 15 sacks, but just 5 in the last 8 games. After a slow start, Peters has played at a Pro Bowl level the last 3 games. Advantage: Eagles

2. Eagles CBs Sheldon Brown and Asante Samuel vs. Broncos WRs Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal. Samuel and Brown have combined for 13 interceptions. Marshall and Royal have combined for 130 receptions. Advantage: Broncos

3. Eagles RE Trent Cole vs. Broncos LT Ryan Clady. Cole is having his best all-around season. Clady, an '08 first-rounder, isn't playing as well ins Josh McDaniels' system as he did in Mike Shanahan's. Advantage: Eagles

Hot and not

 

HOT:

Eagles: LT Jason Peters. He has put three strong games together and has solidified the Eagles' line.

Broncos: WR Brandon Marshall. Has 41 catches for 453 yards and 4 TDs in the Broncos' last 4 games.

NOT:

Eagles: LB Chris Gocong. Was benched last week and didn't play a single down on defense vs. 49ers.

Broncos: WR Eddie Royal. Has just 6 catches for 63 yards in the Broncos' last 4 games.

Domowitch's prediction

 

Eagles 27, Broncos 17