Eagles Facing Offensive Woes Ahead of London Game
The Philadelphia Eagles return to London with a .500 record and significant concerns about their offense, which has struggled with execution and key injuries.
Jalen Hurts attributes the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive struggles to "poor execution," a phrase he repeated multiple times following their recent 24-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. This marked another instance where the Eagles failed to score in the second half and squandered a fourth-quarter lead.
During the game against the Rams, Hurts managed only 10 yards passing in the second half. The team also failed to convert any of their 12 third-down attempts. This follows a pattern of being outscored 31-0 in the second half of their last two losses. The offense generated a mere 68 net passing yards and 172 total yards against the Rams.
Coach Nick Sirianni accepted responsibility for the team's performance, particularly a decision to attempt a touchdown on fourth-and-goal from the Rams' 2-yard line in the fourth quarter, which failed. "I’m going to wear a lot of this. Our offense is going to wear a lot of this. You win together; you lose together," Sirianni stated.
Injuries have also significantly impacted the Eagles. The team played without several key starters and lost more players during the Rams game. Wide receiver DeVonta Smith was already ruled out with a hamstring injury, and linebacker Zack Baun had a concussion. Offensive tackle Lane Johnson was a late scratch for personal reasons. The team's record without Johnson, a two-time All-Pro, stands at 18-30.
Despite the challenges, Sirianni expressed confidence in his team. "There’s a reason they’re Philadelphia Eagles." He noted that the team can improve by finding a collective flow and rhythm and executing at a higher level.
Despite offensive struggles, the Eagles managed to secure their first takeaways of the season against the Rams. Safety Andrew Mukuba recorded the team's first interception, leading to a field goal, and Cooper DeJean added another pick that set up an Eagles touchdown. Receiver Cooper, filling in for the injured Smith, caught two first-half touchdown passes.
Jake Elliott continued his strong kicking performance, extending his franchise record with 35 field goals of 50-plus yards. He made a 56-yard field goal against the Rams and is 2-for-2 on 50-yarders this season.
The Eagles, now at a .500 record, are set to play the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Sportsbooks list the Jaguars as 3 1/2-point favorites.