As the Eagles prep for Week 17, one name looms large at the center of Vic Fangio’s defense: Pro Bowl linebacker Zack Baun. Because this week, against a Buffalo Bills offense built on multiplicity, tempo, and physical stress points, Baun’s role is not merely important -- it is foundational.
Taking the layers back, Buffalo presents one of the league’s most demanding assignments for a second-level defender. Josh Allen’s ability to win both inside and outside the pocket forces linebackers to play disciplined, patient football while still triggering downhill with authority.
Add in James Cook, one of the NFL’s most explosive and versatile ball-carriers, and the stress compounds quickly as Cook’s vision and burst allow him to win inside the tackles with speed to the perimeter to punish over-aggressive fits.