Before the season started, there were huge offseason changes. This included trading star players such as LeSean McCoy and Nick Foles. However, the Eagles did manage to acquire running back DeMarco Murray, the previous year’s leading rusher, and quarterback Sam Bradford who seemed to have a lot of potential. There were also acquisitions defensively, with the Eagles attaining linebacker Kiko Alonso and defensive back Byron Maxwell. Many believed that the offseason changes would make a turn for the better, while hopefully making the playoffs since they were unable to compete in the postseason last year.

Expectations were high, and people everywhere saw the Eagles as a top team this year. There were also many people who believed that the team would strive throughout the season and continued into the postseason.

Hammonton High School senior Dylan Ruskanen believed that his team could make an impact this year.

“Before the season started, I thought that the Eagles were a high Superbowl contender. I truly believed that the team made major improvement and I thought it looked pretty well.”

Through seven games, it seems as if the team that was expected to play so well did not show up. The Eagles currently have a 3-4 record, with their offense struggling. They have averaged 22.9 ppg, which is ranked 17th in the league. However, there are a couple different people who could possibly be blamed for the performance.

A struggling Sam Bradford at quarterback has not been the most efficient. In only seven games, he threw 10 interceptions and only 9 touchdowns.

Student Vinny Piccari seems to put the blame on the quarterback.

“I think Sam Bradford is the reason for the bad performance. He hasn’t played to his potential,” he said.

Others have mixed emotions about head coach Chip Kelly.

Ruskanen is one of these who do not favor him. “I do not agree with the playing calling and I think he should be fired.”

Also, Demarco Murray has not exactly performed as expected. This season, he has been rushing for 51.2 yards per game compared to last season where he rushed for 115.3 yards per game. Part of the reason for this could be the performance by the offensive line. The offensive line has also been struggling against defense during a pass play, with Bradford getting sacked a total of 13 times so far.

As the week goes on, the Eagles prepare for division rival Dallas Cowboys in week 9.Their performance this week is crucial considering they still have a decent chance to make the playoffs.