UPDATE: The Philadelphia Eagles narrowly defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 20-17 on October 15, 2023, but their lackluster offensive performance raises urgent concerns about their season. Despite a win, the Eagles’ passing game faltered, leaving fans and analysts questioning their ability to compete against high-scoring teams.
The Eagles were fortunate that the Chiefs also struggled offensively. Before wide receiver DeVonta Smith made a crucial 28-yard catch with 10:42 remaining in the game, the Eagles faced significant pressure. Smith’s catch brought the Eagles to Kansas City’s three-yard line, setting up a game-clinching one-yard touchdown run by quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Entering the fourth quarter, Hurts had only 62 passing yards, struggling to connect with top receivers Smith and A.J. Brown. Overall, Hurts completed 15 of 22 passes for just 101 yards and one touchdown. The Eagles’ offense, filled with elite playmakers, has become a concern.
“We need to be better in the explosive play battle,” said Eagles coach Nick Sirianni after the game. “We have some thoughts, and we’ll watch the tape and go from there.” He acknowledged the need for improvement in creating big plays to open up their offense.
The Chiefs aggressively pressured Hurts, blitzing on 64.0% of his dropbacks, the highest rate under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo since 2019, according to NFL’s Next Gen Stats. Hurts managed to evade a zero blitz for his deep connection with Smith, but overall adjustments were lacking.
The Eagles wasted multiple drives, including one starting at Kansas City’s 35-yard line that ended without a touchdown. “I think the reason why people may talk about it is because they want to know if it’s substantial and can you sustain that throughout the season,” Brown stated.
While right tackle Lane Johnson expressed mixed feelings about the win, saying, “If it comes down to ugly football that we’re barely winning, I’ll take it,” he reiterated the need for a more efficient offense. Hurts remained optimistic, emphasizing the importance of winning over style. “The game isn’t necessarily won off of fireworks,” he said.
Despite their struggles, the Eagles have managed to find ways to win, reminiscent of last season’s Super Bowl run. However, if their passing attack continues to falter, it could lead to significant losses in the future. Offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo may soon face increased scrutiny if improvements aren’t seen soon.
“We’re happy with him,” Brown said about Patullo, while acknowledging that the offense often takes time to “iron out” mistakes. As the team moves forward, they must find ways to enhance their performance quickly. Johnson likened their performance to “coming home to a home-cooked meal and the steak’s a little bit tough.”
The Eagles now face critical weeks ahead as they work to refine their offense before upcoming games against stronger opponents. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Eagles can turn their struggles into successes.
