D’Andre Swift, Kyle Monangai present major challenge for Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles could face Chicago’s third-string quarterback Monday night, but that would not necessarily make Vic Fangio’s assignment easier. Caleb Williams is dealing with a hamstring injury, while backup Tyson Bagent has entered the NFL’s concussion protocol. If Case Keenum starts, the Bears will have even more incentive to build their offensive plan around D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai.

Chicago enters Week 3 averaging 212.5 rushing yards and 6.1 yards per attempt. Stopping that backfield will be Philadelphia’s most important defensive priority.

Swift is familiar to the Eagles, having rushed for 1,049 yards during his only season in Philadelphia. He remains one of the NFL’s more dangerous backs when given space and opportunities in the passing game. The former Pro Bowl selection has 34 carries for 169 yards and three touchdowns through two games, averaging 5 yards per attempt. Swift opened the season with 124 yards and three scores during Chicago’s 59-37 victory over Carolina.

Minnesota limited him to 45 yards on 16 attempts in Week 2, but Swift still produced 54 receiving yards on five catches. His 32-yard reception was one of Chicago’s most explosive plays. Swift can threaten Philadelphia on outside-zone runs, screens, and backfield routes. Fangio’s linebackers must remain disciplined when Chicago uses motion or play-action to create space for him.

Monangai gives Chicago a more physical option between the tackles. The second-year running back has rushed 20 times for 147 yards and one touchdown, producing an impressive 7.4 yards per carry. He announced his presence with 100 yards on 10 attempts against Carolina, including a 61-yard touchdown. Monangai followed that performance with 47 yards on 10 carries against Minnesota. The former Rutgers standout rushed for 783 yards and five touchdowns as a rookie. His contact balance, compact running style, and willingness to finish through defenders make him a difficult complement to Swift.

Chicago can alternate the two backs without dramatically changing its offense. Swift provides speed and receiving ability, while Monangai can attack downhill and wear down a defense.

If Keenum starts, the Bears will likely attempt to keep him out of obvious passing situations. That means establishing the run, using screens and creating manageable third downs through Swift and Monangai. Chicago can also use play-action to give Keenum defined reads and protect him from Philadelphia’s pass rush. The Eagles must stop the run without overcommitting and creating easy throwing lanes behind their linebackers. Removing Williams’ rushing ability would help Philadelphia. The Bears quarterback contributed 65 yards and two touchdowns on the ground in Week 1. Keenum does not present the same designed-running or scrambling threat.

His limitations, however, make Chicago’s traditional running game even more important.

The Eagles allowed 132 rushing yards against Washington before holding Tennessee’s running backs in check for most of Week 2. Chicago presents a deeper and more explosive challenge than either opponent. Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Moro Ojomo must prevent the Bears’ offensive linemen from reaching Philadelphia’s linebackers. Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell will close interior lanes while staying aware of Swift releasing into the passing game. Missed tackles could turn manageable gains into explosive plays. Philadelphia cannot let Swift reach the perimeter, or Monangai fall forward through contact consistently.

If the Eagles stop Chicago’s running backs on early downs, they can force Keenum to win from the pocket. If Swift and Monangai establish control, the Bears can protect their potential third-string quarterback and dictate the pace of the game.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: D’Andre Swift, Kyle Monangai present major challenge for Eagles