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NFL Panic Meter: Eagles offense, Lions defense are big problems for 2 marquee NFC teams

The Philadelphia Eagles and Detroit Lions, once the NFC’s most dominant teams, are now facing serious challenges just four games into the 2024 season. The Eagles’ offense has stalled without key contributors, including running back Saquon Barkley (hamstring), receiver DeVonta Smith (hamstring), tight end Dallas Goedert, and right tackle Lane Johnson, who sat out Sunday’s loss to the Rams for undisclosed personal reasons.

The absence of these players left the Eagles with just 172 yards and a 3-yard-per-play average, culminating in a late collapse after leading by 10 points. Backup running back Tank Bigsby was placed on injured reserve, and Barkley’s recovery remains week-to-week, while quarterback Jalen Hurts has struggled all season.

The Lions, meanwhile, have exposed a glaring defensive flaw, surrendering 192 yards and two touchdowns to Carolina Panthers receiver Tetairoa McMillan in a single game. Detroit ranks last in the NFL in yards and points allowed per game, despite a strong offensive performance.

Head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the team’s inability to contain McMillan, who thrived in the absence of injured teammate Jalen Coker, but the Lions’ broader defensive struggles—including last-place rankings in expected points added per play allowed and defensive success rate—suggest deeper issues than just personnel injuries.

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