Jalen Hurts concussion/ Eagles vs. Commanders 2024/ NFC playoff race/ Jayden Daniels performance/ LANDOVER/ Md./ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The Philadelphia Eagles suffered a 36-33 loss to the Washington Commanders, snapping their 10-game winning streak. Jalen Hurts exited early with a concussion, leaving backup Kenny Pickett to lead the offense. Despite Saquon Barkley’s strong start and a late chance to secure the game, Philadelphia fell short, raising concerns about Hurts’ availability for next week’s key matchup against Dallas.
Eagles vs. Commanders: Quick Look
Key Highlights
- Final Score: Commanders 36, Eagles 33.
- Jalen Hurts: Left early with a concussion after two significant hits.
- Kenny Pickett: Stepped in, throwing for 143 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT.
- Jayden Daniels: Commanders rookie QB dazzled with 339 yards and 5 TDs.
- Eagles Defense: Struggled without key starters in the second half.
Jalen Hurts Exits with Concussion as Commanders Upset Hurts-Less Eagles 36-33
Deep Look
Commanders Stun Eagles After Hurts Exits Early
The Philadelphia Eagles’ league-best 10-game winning streak came to an abrupt end Sunday as they fell to the Washington Commanders 36-33. Star quarterback Jalen Hurts exited early in the first quarter after sustaining a concussion from two hard hits, leaving the Eagles to lean on backup Kenny Pickett, who made his first meaningful appearance in over a year.
Hurts’ Absence Looms Large
Hurts was taken out after his head hit the ground during one run, followed by a helmet-to-helmet collision with Washington’s Frankie Luvu. Head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed Hurts’ concussion but provided no timeline for his return.
“Anything that has anything to do with the head is out of our hands,” Sirianni said.
Hurts’ absence not only disrupted the Eagles’ rhythm but could jeopardize their pursuit of the NFC’s top seed as they prepare for next week’s pivotal matchup against Dallas.
Kenny Pickett Steps In
Pickett completed 14 of 24 passes for 143 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in relief. The backup quarterback struggled to find consistency, but teammates praised his effort.
“He put us in a position to win a football game,” Saquon Barkley said. “That’s all we could ask.”
Pickett himself acknowledged there were plays he’d like back: “You just got to go play. There’s definitely plays that I want back and I know we want back as a team.”
Commanders QB Jayden Daniels Shines
Washington rookie Jayden Daniels delivered a standout performance, throwing for 339 yards and five touchdowns. He capitalized on an Eagles defense missing key starters in the second half, including edge rusher Josh Sweat, defensive tackle Jordan Davis, and safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who was ejected for taunting.
“We didn’t play our ball,” Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith said, noting costly penalties and missed opportunities like his dropped pass on a crucial late-game drive.
Defensive Woes for Philadelphia
The Eagles’ defense, typically a dominant force, allowed Washington’s offense to flourish. Injuries and undisciplined play compounded their struggles. Gardner-Johnson, ejected after his second unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, defended his actions on social media, saying, “I play with passion and fire.”
Takeaways
Philadelphia Eagles
- Key Concern: Hurts’ concussion could have significant implications for their playoff seeding.
- Missed Opportunities: Penalties, dropped passes, and defensive lapses derailed their momentum.
- Next Steps: Need one more win to secure the NFC East title and a top-two seed.
Washington Commanders
- Rookie QB Breakout: Jayden Daniels continues to prove his potential with an impressive performance.
- Spoiler Alert: While out of playoff contention, Washington proved they can compete with the league’s best.
What’s Next?
- Eagles: Host the Dallas Cowboys next weekend in a critical NFC East clash.
- Commanders: Travel to play the New York Jets in a game with no playoff implications.
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