The Philadelphia Eagles’ heartbreaking loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Monday Night Football has left fans in a state of shock and disbelief. The game ended with a controversial play that will be debated for weeks to come. Let’s break down the key takeaways and hand out 10 awards for the game.
1) The ‘Catch the Ball!’ Award 🧱🙌: Saquon Barkley
The pivotal moment in the game came on 3rd and 3, with the Eagles up by 3 points and just over a minute remaining. Saquon Barkley was wide open for what could have been a game-sealing catch, but he dropped the ball thrown by Jalen Hurts. It was a missed opportunity that could have changed the outcome of the game.
“It was a great play call,” Barkley admitted. “I just have to make the catch.”
The Eagles’ decision to pass instead of run on that play will surely be scrutinized, but it ultimately came down to execution, which was lacking in this crucial moment.
2) The ‘Choke Them Out Anyway… Or Don’t’ Award 😔: Nick Sirianni
After the failed 3rd and 3 play, the Eagles had a chance to convert on 4th down and seal the victory. Instead, they settled for a field goal, putting the game in the hands of their defense, which failed to deliver when it mattered most.
3) The ‘Matt Patricia, Reincarnated’ Award 🦨: Vic Fangio
The Eagles defense struggled to stop the Falcons on the ensuing possession, allowing Kirk Cousins to move the ball down the field with ease. The lack of resistance from the defense was reminiscent of past collapses, raising concerns for the team moving forward.
4) The ‘Forced INT’ Award 🎁: Jalen Hurts
Despite a solid performance overall, Jalen Hurts threw a costly interception that sealed the Eagles’ fate. The decision to force a throw in that situation highlighted the need for better decision-making under pressure.
5) The ‘Milk Carton’ Award 🥛: The Eagles’ pass rush
The Eagles’ pass rush failed to capitalize on a favorable matchup against a weak offensive line and immobile quarterback. The lack of pressure on the quarterback was a major concern for a unit that was expected to dominate.
6) The ‘No Resistance’ Award 🚫✊: The Eagles’ run defense
The Eagles struggled to contain the Falcons’ rushing attack, allowing big gains on the ground. The inability to stop the run was a glaring weakness that needs to be addressed moving forward.
7) The ‘How Is This Still Not Fixed’ Award ❓: The illegal man downfield penalties
Penalties continue to plague the Eagles, as illegal man downfield calls resurfaced in this game. The recurring issue remains unresolved and is hampering the team’s offensive efficiency.
8) The ‘Adding Injury To Insult’ Award: A.J. Brown
The absence of A.J. Brown due to injury added another layer of adversity for the Eagles, further complicating their chances of success.
9) The ‘Missed Opportunity’ Award 😟: The Eagles, in the NFC
With other NFC teams faltering, the Eagles had a chance to position themselves favorably in the standings. However, the missed opportunity against the Falcons overshadowed their chances of early success.
10) The ‘Won’t Get Easier’ Award 😰: The Eagles
Upcoming matchups against tough opponents like the Saints and Buccaneers pose significant challenges for the Eagles. The team must regroup and improve quickly to avoid a downward spiral in the upcoming games.