Longtime Philadelphia sports radio host Anthony Gargano joined Thursday’s edition of GoJo and Golic to discuss the latest headlines around the Eagles heading into Super Bowl LIX.
One of the dynamics heavily scrutinized within this Eagles team this season is the relationship between Nick Sirianni and Jalen Hurts. Some question where the two stand in their relationship heading into the Super Bowl. Gargano reflected on the evolution of the Sirianni-Hurts dynamic this season, noting how much things have shifted since early speculation about Sirianni’s job security in Week 5. At that time, questions swirled about whether the Eagles’ offense could effectively throw the football. But despite the doubts, they’ve done nothing but WIN.
"Nick Sirianni's job was in question. People wondered about Jalen Hurts. 'Can this offense throw the football?' And they've done nothing but win.
Jalen does nothing but play winning football. He plays the position like a point guard. That's what makes this offense successful."… pic.twitter.com/y7ayBQ8D0i
— GoJo and Golic (@GoJoandGolic) January 30, 2025
Gargano highlighted the change in Sirianni’s approach. The over-the-top emotions that defined the team early on have settled down, and the Eagles have become a more disciplined, well-structured unit. Unlike last year, when tackling was an issue, Sirianni has made fundamental improvements to ensure the team practices tackling every week and even holding sessions outside at Lincoln Financial Field to maintain a tough, game-ready mindset. As for Hurts, Gargano emphasized that while quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen and Joe Burrow often steal the spotlight, Hurts plays winning football in his way. He compared him to a point guard rather than a traditional game manager because he always makes the right decision, whether using his arm, his legs or simply protecting the football. Gargano highlighted a key moment in last week’s game when Hurts recognized A.J. Brown in single coverage on a crucial 4th-and-5 play, checked into the right call, and delivered a perfect throw. Hurts’ ability to adapt and execute, combined with a dominant offensive line and the addition of Saquon Barkley, makes this Philly offense so dangerous.
A side of the ball where the Eagles have been DOMINANT is the defense led by defensive tackle Jalen Carter. Gargano praised Carter’s dominance in the middle of the line. He said Carter is a mix of Eagles legends like Fletcher Cox, Jerome Brown and Ndamukong Suh. He emphasized that Carter plays every snap without tiring and is a complete force. Despite the Eagles lacking standout edge rushers, Carter has been a game-changer, often requiring double teams to contain him. He pointed to key moments, like Carter’s sack on Matt Stafford and his forced fumble against Kyren Williams, as examples of his ability to disrupt games at crucial times. Another aspect of this Eagles defense that Gargano highlighted was the secondary play of Cooper DeJean. His presence in the middle gives them a defensive edge they haven’t had in the past. Gargano pointed out that while the Chiefs will likely target quick-hitting plays to wide receivers, DeJean’s ability to disrupt those routes will be a key matchup.
"Fletcher Cox had an amazing career. Jalen Carter is better. He's Jerome Brown meets Ndamukong Suh. He's on the field the entire game and doesn't wear down; he's a complete beast.
The Eagles don't have an edge rush. Their pressure starts in the middle with Carter, and he's been… pic.twitter.com/8jv6b0xdfq
— GoJo and Golic (@GoJoandGolic) January 30, 2025
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid knows the Eagles well from both his time in Philly and also facing them in a previous Super Bowl matchup two years ago. Gargano pointed out that Steve Spagnuolo will look to disrupt the Eagles’ offense, particularly by dialing up pressure, something he’s done successfully against quarterbacks like Allen and others. Even when teams make it into the red zone, Spagnuolo turns up the heat even more, making those possessions even more critical. Gargano noted that Hurts thrives on quick reads when he sees an opening early and delivers the ball efficiently. However, when forced to go through his full progressions, things can get shaky, which makes third-and-long situations a concern. The Eagles have been able to avoid those by consistently winning on first downs, but against a disciplined Chiefs defense that could be tested.
Another key factor in this game will be playing from behind. The Eagles are at their best when they control the game and stick to their run-heavy approach. They’re not built to play from behind, so Saquon Barkley has to remain a focal point, no matter what Kansas City does early. Gargano warned that Reid’s scripted plays are usually sharp, meaning the Chiefs could jump to an early lead. Since Vic Fangio’s defense tends to settle in after early adjustments, Philadelphia can’t panic if Kansas City scores quickly. He believes that they need to stick to their identity and keep Barkley involved.
All eyes will be on Barkley and this Eagles rushing attack, Gargano believes Saquon Barkley is poised for a tremendous Super Bowl performance, even suggesting he could crack the top 10 all-time in Super Bowl rushing yards. With Terrell Davis sitting at fifth with 157 yards and Timmy Smith’s record at 204, Gargano is confident Barkley can surpass the 124-yard mark, currently holding the 10th spot. He compared Barkley’s explosiveness to Aaron Judge’s home run power, saying that while defenses may stuff him for short gains, all it takes is one crease for him to break loose. His projected total is around 115 yards, but Gargano says while defenses may stuff him for short gains at times, all it takes is one crease to break loose. With his ability to reach the second level, he’s nearly impossible to stop, especially behind a dominant Eagles offensive line. Defenses can’t load the box against him, making him even more dangerous. Gargano brought up the classic baseball analogy, stating that if Reggie Jackson was Mr. October, Barkley was Mr. January and would soon be Mr. February if he delivered on the game’s biggest stage.
.@AnthonyLGargano says Saquon Barkley has been a MAJOR headache for opposing teams 😤 pic.twitter.com/9N7gOsd9Ye
— DraftKings Network (@DKNetwork) January 30, 2025
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