The Philadelphia Eagles’ 36-33 loss to the Washington Commanders raised concerns, especially as quarterback Jalen Hurts was sidelined due to a concussion. The team’s pursuit of the NFC’s top seed is now in jeopardy, and there are lingering questions about the impact of Hurts’ injury. But is this loss a big deal, or just a bump in the road for a talented Eagles squad?
No Deal: A Temporary Setback
Some argue that the Eagles’ loss isn’t a big deal. The team faced a tough opponent on the road, and Hurts’ absence wasn’t the sole reason for the loss. The Eagles still have a strong roster, and backup quarterback Kenny Pickett filled in admirably during the game. Despite mistakes like DeVonta Smith’s rare dropped pass and CJ Gardner-Johnson’s ejection, the game was still close, and the loss could have been avoided with a few plays going the Eagles’ way. The team’s overall strength, including its defense and running game, is seen as enough to keep the Eagles competitive, even if Hurts misses more games. As long as Hurts is available come playoff time, the Eagles can make a deep run.
Big Deal: Consequences for the Playoff Push
On the other hand, some view this loss as more significant. The Eagles’ loss cost them control over the NFC’s number one seed, which is important for playoff positioning and the potential for a bye week. Historically, the Eagles have benefited from being the top seed, and missing out on that advantage could hurt their playoff chances. Additionally, Hurts’ injury history raises concerns, as this is the third consecutive season he’s been hurt while running the ball. If Hurts continues to suffer injuries, the Eagles may struggle to make it through the postseason.
Conclusion
In the grand scheme of things, the loss to the Commanders might not be a huge deal if Hurts returns healthy and ready for the playoffs. However, the absence of the starting quarterback and the potential loss of home-field advantage make this a pivotal moment for the Eagles’ playoff aspirations. Fans are left hoping Hurts recovers quickly and that the team can rally in his absence.
