One Aspect of the Eagles that the 49ers Can Exploit

Recent history would suggest Brock Purdy will have a prolific passing game in Philadelphia if he stays healthy unlike last season.

The Eagles are a tremendously strong-willed tough team that finds ways to win nearly every week. And yet, they still have weaknesses the 49ers can exploit, particularly in the secondary.

The Eagles have won the past few weeks despite giving up 339 passing yards to Josh Allen, 374 passing yards to Dak Prescott and 397 passing yards to Sam Howell. Sam Freaking Howell. So recent history would suggest Brock Purdy will have a prolific passing game in Philadelphia if he stays healthy unlike last season. Because Purdy has better weapons than all three of those quarterbacks who had so much success against the Eagles' old secondary.

Starting cornerback Darius Slay is 32. Starting cornerback James Bradberry is 30. Starting nickelback Bradley Roby is 31. And starting strong safety Kevin Byard is 30. These aging defensive backs have struggled big time the past month, and won't be able to cover Brandon Aiyuk or George Kittle.

Aiyuk in particular should have a monster. Last week, the 49ers targeted him only four times and still scored 31 points, which is impressive, considering he's their best receiver by far. This week, look for them to target Aiyuk much more frequently, particularly when he's covered by Bradberry, who's giving up a passer rating of 107.4.

Aiyuk currently is averaging 19.6 yards per catch and has picked up 40 first downs and 45 catches. Which means nearly every time he touches the ball, the 49ers get a first down. Expect Purdy to target Aiyuk at least eight times this week, and expect those two both to play well.