The Philadelphia Eagles clinched their playoff spot and the NFC East division title in Week 16 after defeating the Washington Commanders. This made them back-to-back division champions, becoming the division’s first repeat champions in 21 years.
The following week, Week 17, for America’s Game of the Week, Jalen Hurts and Philadelphia played MVP candidate, quarterback Josh Allen and his Buffalo Bills. Philadelphia scored 13 points in the first half. A one-yard passing touchdown from Hurts to tight end Dallas Goedert, a 47-yard field goal from Jake Elliott, and another field goal for 28 yards by Elliott.
During the second half, Philadelphia struggled offensively by only generating 16 yards, one first down, and Hurts going 0-for-7. Throughout this game Hurts got himself out of situations where he could have been sacked, gotten out of what could have been a safety, and did a good job protecting the ball. With that being said, it doesn’t seem like Hurts is the problem.
Philadelphia won the game 13-12.
As we are about to enter the National Football League (NFL) playoffs many fans are worried about the Eagles’ offense. Offensive Coordinator, Kevin Patullo, who was formally the team’s passing game coordinator from 2021 up until his promotion this past offseason, has been criticized all season for his play calling. There have rarely been games this past season where Philadelphia has won by a blow-out, instead they play amazing during the first half only to be shut down in the second half. Although this team has shown flashes of dominance, their inability to adjust after halftime has repeatedly stalled drives and limited scoring opportunities.
If the Eagles want a deep playoff run, changes must be made quickly. That means more creative scheming, quicker adjustments, and putting Hurts in positions to succeed rather than forcing him to throw the ball away. The talent on this roster is undeniable, and with the offense that they have, they should be putting more points up. Postseason football exposes weaknesses fast. Unless Philadelphia can solve offensive and second-half struggles, the Eagles’ back-to-back Super Bowl aspirations may end sooner than expected.
