The Eagles are 4-2 in the race for the top spot in the NFC East. This week is a big test as they travel to Cincinnati to take on a hot Bengals team. That's what I expect from the Eagles rookies.

This is a big test for the first-year cornerbacks

Since 2021, the Bengals have had one of the strongest and most dangerous passing games in the NFL. Joe Burrow's connection to Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins is as lethal as any quarterback-receiver combination in the country. This year has been no different, as Joe Burrow has thrown 14 touchdowns and just two interceptions in seven games, while Higgins and Chase are both on pace for 1,000-yard seasons. These three will be a big challenge for the Eagles' defense, namely Philly's rookie cornerbacks.

Quinyon Mitchell has already seen some great receivers this season: Mike Evans, Amari Cooper, Malik Nabers, Drake London… but none can quite match what Ja'Marr Chase brings to the table. Chase's combination of speed, route-running skill, dominance at the catch point, and ability to gain yards after the catch makes him difficult to defend at any stage of the game. Whenever he faces Quinyon Mitchell, the rookie has to be perfect to prevent a big play.

When Mitchell takes on Higgins, it will be a matter of dealing with the 6-foot-3 receiver's physical style. The impressive rookie faces a four-quarter battle.

For Cooper DeJean, the chances of him seeing the star duo are much slimmer. Ja'Marr Chase has played about 100 snaps in the slot this season, while Higgins has played half of them. Still, DeJean will continue to play an important role in limiting the Bengals' short passing game. Joe Burrow is fantastic at attacking the short and middle areas of the field. Taking that aspect away gives the Eagles' pass rush a chance to feast on a vulnerable offensive line. DeJean has had a great start to his young career and can really help the Eagles win a quality game in this one.