Eagles Disappear After Fast Start: Instant Reaction

Coming into their 2020 season opener, hopes were high for Philadelphia. The Eagles built an effortless 17-0 lead and seemed to be in complete control of the game. Then, what began as a promising start to the young season, quickly turned into an inexcusable loss that won’t soon be forgotten.

Look, even the unprecedented amount of injuries the Eagles have sustained won’t help rationalize how the Eagles managed to lose this game. Yes, they were missing Miles Sanders, their starting running back. They were missing Lane Johnson, their starting right tackle. Jack Driscoll, the rookie right tackle filling in for Lane, was seen hobbling into the locker room. With Brandon Brooks already gone for the year, the Eagles offensive line was in shambles.

Nonetheless, Philly was up 17-0 on a football team that doesn’t even have a name. They had no identity, and Philadelphia let off the gas. Up 17-0, with a minute and 43 seconds left, the Eagles had the ball on their own 28. This was a phenomenal opportunity to take the life out of a young Washington team completely. Instead, Carson made his first of many mistakes. A jump ball to Reagor that was picked off by Fabian Moreau. Suddenly, a team that didn’t belong on the same field thus far had life. Haskins hit Logan Thomas to bring the score to 17-7 going into the half. 

Eagles Second Half Blues

The Eagles took the field in the third quarter with a 17-7 lead and a chance to retake the game’s control. How did they respond? How about a minute and 36 second three and out. This would become quite familiar, as Philadelphia only mustered 95 total yards on offense in the second half. Carson Wentz lost a fumble and threw his second interception of the game, and as a result, Philadelphia looked lifeless. The offensive line continued its disgraceful performance, giving up eight sacks in the game. Injuries continued to mount, as Vinny Curry and Brandon Graham both left the game.

Still, there were many opportunities for the Eagles to retake control of this game. The running game was deserted, as the Eagles ran the ball only 17 times while passing 42 times. Questionable play calling contributed to the lack of second-half success, but Philadelphia deserved to lose this game. They were utterly soulless in the second half. Roles reversed from the first half, Washington had its identity, and Philly was left soul searching. Ultimately, Philadelphia gave up 27 unanswered points, resulting in a 27-17 defeat. Brutal doesn’t even begin to describe the performance. 

Wentz’ Struggles

Wentz, sacked eight times, justifiably missed some throws. But he was trying to do too much. Overthrows, holding the ball too long, and poor location are just a few of Wentz’s issues today. This was a game where the Eagles needed Wentz to step up and lead them to a victory. Unfortunately, he unraveled, as did the entire Eagles offense. Carson started the game 12/15 with two touchdowns and 174 yards. He finished the game 12-27 for 96 yards, two interceptions and a fumble lost. It’s fair to say that Wentz crumbled under the pressure. Being sacked 8 times can do that to you. It’s also OK to expect more out of your franchise quarterback. Regardless, one thing is for sure. Wentz will have to be better next week against the Rams for Philadelphia to avoid a 0-2 hole to start the year.