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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Glenn Erby

C.J. Gardner-Johnson says tackling was Eagles biggest defensive issue in Week 1

Philadelphia is 1-0 after defeating Detroit in the season opener, but the aftermath is centering around a disappointing performance from the Eagles’ defense.

The Bird surrendered 35 points on Sunday, allowing D’Andre Swift to rush for 144-yards on the afternoon while allowing almost 386-yards of total offense to a rebuilding Lions offense.

Star safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson chalked the afternoon up to missed tackles, telling the media afterward that Philadelphia won the game, and that’s what’s important.

Cornerback Darius Slay placed the blame squarely on the player’s shoulders, sticking up for Jonathan Gannon.

“We just have to execute our job better. That’s on us as players Slay said via NBC Sports Philadelphia. We’re out there on the field, coaches give us a call, and we just have to execute it. We just have to make a play. … We’ve got to execute better at the end.”

Philadelphia allowed three long scoring drives in the second half (75, 75 and 72 yards) while blowing a 17-point lead twice during the contest.

The Eagles have kinks to work out on defense, and they’ll need to do it quickly with the explosive Vikings offense heading to Lincoln Financial Field on Monday night.

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