Preview: Nick Foles looks to repeat miracle game against the Raiders on Christmas

By: Jesse Larch, Sports Talk Philly editor 

Merry Christmas! Not only do we get to enjoy the day with our loved ones, but we also get to indulge in some Eagles football. 

This game is especially significant because with a victory the Eagles clinch home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. It is also the first time that Nick Foles will play against the Oakland Raiders since he etched his name into the history books against them in 2013. 

St. Nick tries to repeat his miracle game

On November 3, 2013 the Eagles traveled to Oakland to play the Raiders. By the time that that game concluded Nick Foles was sending his cleats to Canton, Ohio to be enshrined in the Hall Of Fame for throwing an NFL-Record seven touchdowns – something that only Peyton Manning has also accomplished. 

Now on Christmas day St. Nick will be facing the Raiders for the first time since that historic day. While it would be a true Christmas miracle for Nick Foles to repeat his 400-yard seven touchdown performance, he will be leading the charge for the Eagles offense against the intimidating Raiders defense led by reigning defensive player of the year Khalil Mack.

Raiders Defense Improving

The Raiders' defense struggled for most of the season. The poor play led to the firing of defensive coordinator Ken Norton Jr. The Raiders replaced Norton Jr. with John Pagano and the defense has begun to resemble its 2016 form with each passing game. 

The Raiders defense has climbed the totem pole to become the 11th best defense in terms of total defense – a category that they were ranked 26th in under Norton. 

With the Eagles offensive line playing inconsistently without Stefen Wisniewski at guard, Khalil Mack, Bruce Irvin, and the Raiders' defense will have a chance to continue their climb up the rankings. 

Injury Report

The Eagles have listed cornerback Jalen Mills (ankle), linebacker Mychal Kendricks (foot), and guard Stefen Wisniewski (ankle) as questionable. 

The Raiders have listed defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. (ankle), and defensive tackle Treyvon Hester (ankle) as out. 

Cornerback David Amerson (foot) is doubtful. Center Rodney Hudson (ankle/kidney stones), wide receiver Amari Cooper (ankle), outside linebacker Bruce Irvin (concussion), defensive lineman Denico Autry (hand/ankle), and safety Keith McGill (knee/illness) as questionable. 

Broadcast Information

Time: 8:30 p.m.

Television: ESPN | Play-by-Play by Sean McDonough with color commentary by John Gruden and sideline reports from Lisa Salters

Radio: 94.1 FM WIP | Play-by-Play by Merrill Reese with color commentary by Mike Quick and sideline reports from Howard Eskin

Online: NFL Game Pass