The Philadelphia Eagles have always boasted a defense that demands respect, but under the guidance of Vic Fangio as the defensive coordinator, this unit has elevated its performance to new heights. Fangio, known for his strategic prowess and keen eye for defensive talent, has orchestrated a rhapsody of resistance that's resonating across the NFL. Inside linebacker Zack Baun stands out as a key contributor to this success story and is garnering substantial recognition in the process.
Baun's Unmatched Performance
Zack Baun, a player whose presence on the field has become indispensable for the Eagles, has distinguished himself with a rare feat: being the only player in the NFL this season to notch over 80 tackles, with two or more sacks and an interception. This impressive statistic underscores Baun's versatility and impact on the field. Fangio’s earlier judgment of Baun, not merely as a backup or special teams player but as a crucial inside linebacker, has proven farsighted.
Baun’s spectacular performances reached a peak during Week 10, earning him the NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. Over the last three games alone, he’s tallied 30 tackles, forced three fumbles, and secured an interception. Such figures underline his contribution to an Eagles defense that's dominating across metrics.
Defensive Dominance
The Eagles' defensive unit stands as a bulwark, allowing a mere 213.7 yards per game—currently the NFL’s lowest. Additionally, they efficiently restrict opposing teams to just 3.9 yards per play, a testament to their impenetrable front. The unit is also tied for fourth in points allowed per game, conceding only 17.9. This statistic is pivotal in today’s high-scoring league, where controlling the scoreboard is often a barometer of success.
Philadelphia’s defense ranks second in total yards per game allowed (274.1) and in yards per play (4.8). These numbers reflect a disciplined and cohesive unit, functioning with precision and purpose. The team's secondary plays no small part in this, as the Eagles rank third in the league for pass yards allowed per game, clocking in at 173.4.
Legacy of Linebackers
The Eagles have a storied history of producing formidable linebackers, with names like Jeremiah Trotter, Nigel Bradham, Mychal Kendricks, and T.J. Edwards lingering with reverence in the annals of the franchise. Now, with Baun at the helm on the inside, there's a palpable sense that the legacy not only continues but thrives.
Fangio’s respect for linebacker play is apparent: "I think I said in here a while back, it's hard to play good defense in the NFL without good linebacker play, and that is 100 percent true." His statement encapsulates the essence of a great defense being built around dynamic linebacker play, with Baun currently serving as the exemplar.
Judicious Talent Evaluation
Fangio’s expertise in evaluating talent has been a catalyst for the Eagles' defensive successes. He reflects on the process with insightful simplicity: "When I evaluate players, there's no check box, things you check off. You just watch the tape, watch the movement patterns, watch the player play." This philosophy of player assessment, focusing on intuition and observation rather than rigid criteria, has borne fruit, highlighting his knack for foreseeing and nurturing talent.
Fangio’s collaboration with Eagles Executive Vice President/General Manager, Howie Roseman, brought Baun to the team’s center stage. As Fangio recalls, Roseman initially saw Baun as a promising backup and special teams player. However, Fangio recognized a higher calling for him on the field: "I said no, I think he's an inside linebacker. Luckily it hit."
Indeed, it did. The evidence is clear on the field, as Baun and the Eagles' defense not only meet expectations but set new standards in a league defined by its demanding competitiveness. With Fangio's masterful orchestration and Baun’s remarkable play, the Eagles' defense exemplifies how foresight, talent, and execution can form a formidable trifecta in the pursuit of football excellence.