Why Eagles need different Nick Sirianni vs. Commanders

Same coach, different approach.

It’s hard to pinpoint the exact moment it happened (probably right after leaving nine points on the board vs. Jacksonville in early November), but a major shift in how Nick Sirianni manages a game took place as this magical Eagles season unfolded.

Gone was the guy that went for fourth downs left and right and passed up field goal attempts for the chance at touchdowns. In arrived a more conservative leader willing to punt and let his defense win the game.

The shift, much like Brian Billick’s transformation when he realized what kind of defense he had in 2000 with the Baltimore Ravens, was smart. It’s worked. It’s what this defensive and running team needed to win games.

But it might not be the right way to end the Commanders season in the NFC Championship Game today.

Here’s why the Eagles need early-season Sirianni to return with everything on the line.