Eagles in Trouble: Jalen Hurts Faces Concussion Check as Team Trails Commanders 7-3 at Halftime!
2024-11-15
Author: Jessica Wong
Eagles in Trouble: Jalen Hurts Faces Concussion Check as Team Trails Commanders 7-3 at Halftime!
In a thrilling showdown on Thursday Night Football, the Philadelphia Eagles find themselves trailing the Washington Commanders 7-3 at halftime, despite dominating stat lines in key areas. The Eagles outgained the Commanders with a total of 174 yards to 124, also leading in first downs (11-6) and plays (42-26), while controlling the clock with 18:29 of possession compared to Washington's 11:31.
However, the big story of the night revolves around the Eagles' quarterback, Jalen Hurts, who is undergoing concussion protocol after sustaining a hit that forced him into the sideline medical tent late in the first half. After the check, Hurts jogged to the locker room, leaving fans on edge about his availability for the second half.
During the first half, Hurts managed to guide the Eagles into Washington territory on three out of six possessions. However, kicker Jake Elliott had a difficult night, missing attempts from 44 and 51 yards, before finally converting a much shorter field goal of 21 yards right before halftime.
Philadelphia had its chances, including a first-and-goal opportunity from the 9-yard line. Hurts scrambled for 5 yards, followed by running back Saquon Barkley gaining 1 yard. But a crucial third-down incompletion after a pressure blitz from Commanders safety Quan Martin led to the missed scoring opportunity. Officials controversially overlooked a potential facemask penalty on the play, adding to the Eagles' frustrations.
At the end of the first half, Hurts completed 10 of 19 passes for 101 yards, adding another 23 yards on the ground. Barkley led the rushing attack with 15 carries for 56 yards, while star receiver A.J. Brown amassed 42 yards on three receptions.
On the other side of the field, Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels showed promise, completing 8 of 13 passes for 83 yards, while running back Austin Ekeler highlighted Washington’s offense with five catches for 61 yards, including a 34-yard play that set up their only touchdown. Brian Robinson contributed significantly with six carries for 38 yards and a crucial touchdown after an impressive 18-yard run to the 1-yard line.
The Commanders' defense has had a strong showing, with linebacker Frankie Luvu making his mark on the game with two sacks and multiple hits on Hurts, creating added pressure that has complicated the Eagles’ offensive rhythm.
As the second half approaches, all eyes will be on Jalen Hurts and his ability to return to the field. Can the Eagles rebound and take control, or will the Commanders maintain their lead and pull off the upset? Stay tuned for what promises to be an intense second half!