PHILADELPHIA - The Eagles' offense is finally starting to play up to its potential.
Quarterback Nick Foles, running back Bryce Brown and an improving offensive line helped them score a season-high 26 points in a 38-33 loss at Dallas last week.
A lot of credit belongs to the offensive line, specifically guards Evan Mathis and Jake Scott. Their experience and leadership has really helped center Dallas Reynolds and tackles King Dunlap and Dennis Kelly.
"I'd say it's just as much the other way around," Scott said. "Those guys help me just as much as I help them."
The unit faces a big challenge Sunday in Tampa. The offensive line will be trying to open holes for Brown against the league's top-ranked run defense. The Buccaneers allow an average of 82.6 rushing yards per game.
Foles may be asked to carry more of a load. Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg suggested it's time for Foles to take off the training wheels and start rolling.
"Nick and I have talked about it," Mornhinweg said. "All this talk about progressing is over now. That rookie stuff is over. It's time to start playing at a consistently high level. We want to get him to the point where he's off and running."
EXTRA POINTS: Rookie defensive tackle Fletcher Cox said Thursday he was surprised to learn that defensive line coach Jim Washburn had been fired, but has had bigger losses to deal with this season.
Cox has lost two family members and a close friend this season. His grandmother, Jimmy Hankins, died last week at the age of 87.
"I can handle a lot of things, but it's been tough," Cox said. "My grandmother and I were very close."
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