Miles Sanders’ Impact Was Sorely Missed
Many expect Miles Sanders to take the next step as a player in his second season in the NFL. After taking over the starting running back role midway through last season, he managed to show a genuinely versatile ability to thrive on carries and catch passes out of the backfield.
Against an impressive Washington Football Team front-seven, it would have been helpful to have Sanders’ receiving ability out of the backfield. Having an effective receiver could have helped to combat the pass rush and alleviate pressure from Carson Wentz.
Instead of having Sanders, the Eagles had to make do with Boston Scott and Chris Clement as their top running back options. Both players combined for just 54 rushing yards on 15 carries along with 4 receptions and 21 receiving yards.
The Sanders breakout campaign will be on hold until he can get healthy and make his return to the lineup. The Eagles were wise to prioritize his long-term health as opposed to an immediate boost, but regardless, not having him in the lineup was tough to overcome.