Ryan Mathews could be well on his way to getting another start for the Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles came away with their first win of the season after holding off a furious rally by the previously undefeated New York Jets, and running back Ryan Mathews led the way.
Mathews rushed for 108 yards on 25 carries while filling in for the injured DeMarco Murray. The 2014 rushing leader has proven to be a colossal bust in Philadelphia since leaving the Dallas Cowboys. Murray ran for a shockingly minimal 11 yards on 21 carries in the Eagles’ first two games. This heavily contributed to the Eagles’ slow start.
Mathews did not perform any better during the Eagles’ 0-2 start, as he ran for four yards on four carries.
However, the Eagles offense finally showed signs of life against a formidable Jets defense. Mathews showed why the San Diego Chargers drafted him in the first round in 2010.
After capitalizing on Murray’s hamstring injury, Mathews is now on track to possibly receive another start, according to the Eagles Insider Twitter account.
Kelly said he has no idea whether or not Ryan Mathews deserves the bulk of the carries against Washington. All three RBs fit in perfectly
— Dave Spadaro (@EaglesInsider) September 28, 2015
Eagles head coach Chip Kelly has been notable for developing running backs since achieving success at Oregon, and he has looked to instill a similar offense in Philadelphia.
Kelly is still adjusting to a new offense though, as he traded away star players such as running back LeSean McCoy and quarterback Nick Foles while letting wide receiver Jeremy Maclin walk in free agency.
Darren Sproles is the only running back on the Eagles roster who was with the team last season, but he is still third in the pecking order.
Mathews figures to be the top dog in the Eagles’ rushing offense unless Murray can return healthy and show the form he displayed in an MVP-caliber 2014 season with the Cowboys.
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