8 storylines to follow vs. Patriots

 We're on to the second game of this preseason as the Eagles take on New England tonight (7 PM, NBC10 Philadelphia, NFL Network) and there remain so many storylines with the cutdown to 53 players less than two weeks away (August 27, 4 PM). Last Friday's win in Baltimore was a good first step; now the Eagles must follow with more positive developments. What to look for? As always, plenty.

Here are some storylines to consider ...

The QB play

Jalen Hurts had a sterling joint practice on Tuesday, so we'll wait to see how Head Coach Nick Sirianni divides up the reps in this one. Behind Hurts, of course, are Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee, who are both ingrained in this offense and have played well this summer. New England's strength is its defense and while the packages may be vanilla, both Pickett and McKee will be challenged by a strong front and an aggressive back seven. Both quarterbacks led long touchdown drives in Baltimore and were pretty good throughout. There were some drives stunted by penalty, so the Eagles want to clean that up and have more consistency and production throughout the game. Will Grier did not get the chance to play in the preseason opener, so we'll see if he gets any snaps tonight.

How does it look at right guard?

Is Mekhi Becton leading the way in the race for the starting right guard job? Is Tyler Steen pushing? Is anyone else in the mix as the Eagles look to solidify the status at right guard? The Eagles would love to build some continuity up front, so maybe it's obvious with Becton taking the first-team reps in the practice on Tuesday. Becton started last week and played eight snaps. It could be very telling how this situation is shaping up by who plays in the game.

Rookies on the rise

The 2024 Eagles Draft Class was excellent in its preseason debut. Quinyon Mitchell was active and around the football. Jalyx Hunt was charged up and on the football. Will Shipley did a lot as a running back and a receiver out of the backfield. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. had a terrific game. Offensive linemen Trevor Keegan and Dylan McMahon got after it in the trenches. Johnny Wilson and Ainias Smith moved the chains in the passing game. Now, what can this group do for an encore? It is something to watch, one of the major themes of this game.

Who are the backup wide receivers?

Wilson started in the preseason opener and has had plenty of looks with the first-team unit this summer. Britain Covey just goes out there and makes plays from the slot using his quickness and elusiveness. John Ross had a couple of catches last week and wants to build on that. Parris Campbell is back on the field and knows he needs to make an impression. He has the size and speed to help from the slot. There are others, a lot of others, who are going to have some chances. Again, the cutdown date is coming. The Eagles need some clarity here.