No. 1: Eagles’ Nick Foles vs. Falcons Pass Defense

Flipping the script, and assuming Carson Wentz (doubtful) is unable to go, the Eagles’ passing hopes will again fall upon the shoulders of Wentz’s backup, Nick Foles.

Foles was solid enough against Atlanta during last season’s divisional bout, going 23-of-30 for 246 yards and not turning the ball over.

But that was then, just like Matt Ryan’s splits. The 2018 regular season is another story.

One of the main worries from the 2018 preseason was how poor he looked in exhibition contests, namely the Eagles’ third game against the Cleveland Browns in which Foles went 13-of-17 for 127 yards, two interceptions and a passer rating of 57.4.

Out of his 14 preseason drives, Foles’ efforts resulted in zero points for Philadelphia. It’s a preseason narrative, sure. Yet it’s something to monitor against a scheming defense in Week 1.

“There’s time when I feel good and times when I’m making mistakes,” Foles admitted, via NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Reuben Frank. “It’s as simple as that. I just have to keep being critical of myself, keep watching the film and understanding what’s going on. I have to keep playing, keep going through it.”

Atlanta’s pass defense might open up an opportunity, however. A year ago, Football Outsiders ranked this crop 20th in the league against the pass. We’ll see if that carries over to 2018, though, but look for Foles to try and take advantage of what might be a suspect pass defense from the Falcons right out of the gate.

Especially if players like Lane Johnson help keep him upright.