Coming off a thrilling win in Week 1, the Philadelphia Eagles hosted their home opener today at Lincoln Financial Field against the San Francisco 49ers. In a very physical game, the Eagles were unable to pull off another victory, falling in Week 2, 11-17.
Philadelphia failed to capitalize, ultimately losing because of several missed opportunities.
A LOSS OF MOMENTUM
Questionable play calls from head coach Nick Sirianni set the tone for the Philadelphia Eagles in the first half of today’s game. In a post-game interview, Sirianni admitted to his faults, stating that he needs to call better plays in the future.
Second-year quarterback Jalen Hurts had difficulty with deep balls, as San Francisco’s defense kept the pressure. Eventually moving the ball down the field, Jake Elliott was able to put three points on the board after a 45-yard field goal. The field goal tied Elliott to Sam Baker for the third-most field goals in Eagles’ history.
After another run, Hurts aired deep to Jalen Reagor for a touchdown, but the wide receiver went out of bounds. Shortly after Elliott set his record, Philadelphia settled for another field goal that was blocked.
In the second quarter, right guard Brandon Brooks left the game with a chest injury leaving rookie Landon Dickerson to replace him. Hurts attempted to recover, completing a 91-yard reception to Quez Watkins. The pass tied for the fifth-longest passing play in Eagles’ history, placing the Eagles at 1st-and-goal from the 1-yard line. Unable to score, Sirianni called for the “Philly Special,” failing miserably.
91 YARDS FOR THE BIRDS. #FlyEaglesFly
📺: #SFvsPHI on FOX
📱: NFL app pic.twitter.com/3YLWa3OGjk— NFL (@NFL) September 19, 2021
With 12 seconds left, the 49ers scored, leading 7-3. The Eagles headed to the locker room, leaving 14 possible points on the field, also losing defensive end Brandon Graham to an ankle injury. Unable to put pressure on his left leg, it is believed that Graham tore his Achilles and is out for the remainder of the season. The veteran took to Twitter following the game clueing fans in on his future for 2021.
We still about to shock the world! I will just be leading from the sidelines this year working to be great for 2022. Appreciate all the love and now it is time for guys to step it up. U have to find the treasure in every situation! #eagles
— Brandon Graham (@brandongraham55) September 19, 2021
Philadelphia entered the second half looking to make a comeback but was unable to succeed. Hurts threw another deep ball to DeVonta Smith, off-target on the attempt. The same happened with Reagor.
The offense tried to run the ball and the defense was tired. The Eagles also lost opportunities to foolish penalties, again, similar to Week 1.
AN ATTEMPT TO KEEP THE TEAM ALIVE
Much of the Eagles’ saving grace came from Jalen Hurts, who continued to run the ball when he could after the offense failed to get open. Late in the fourth quarter, Hurts ran a 1-yard touchdown, bringing Philadelphia 11-17 after a two-point conversion from Kenneth Gainwell.
.@JalenHurts QB sneak! @Eagles make it a one possession game.
📺: #SFvsPHI on FOX
📱: NFL app pic.twitter.com/pkDgZJdQKD— NFL (@NFL) September 19, 2021
Hurts finished with 12 completions out of 23 attempts for 190 passing yards. He also completed ten carries for 82 yards and a touchdown.
The 22-year-old stated, “We had a lot of opportunities out there that we didn’t capitalize on. I think that’s plain and simple right there. We have to be consistent in our execution. I have to be consistent in my execution and my operation as a field general; something to learn from today, a lot to learn from. A lot of things out, everything out there, were things that we can control, so that’s what hurts that most.” He continued, “Those wounds out there were self-inflicted.”
The game came down to attention to detail, and unfortunately, the Eagles couldn’t make it happen today.
Hurts continued, “You win a game, you lose a game; you’re going to walk away from that game wanting to some plays back. You learn from it, and you only go up.”
Philadelphia will not only be looking to turn things around but are also hoping for the continued health of vital veteran players. The Eagles will play their first NFC East matchup next week, Monday, September 27. They take on the Dallas Cowboys at 8:15 PM.
