BALTIMORE – For the third straight year, the Philadelphia Eagles have established themselves in the top tier of the NFL over the season’s first 12 weeks.In 2022, the Eagles soared to the Super Bowl, only to face a heartbreaking late-season collapse. Six losses in their last seven games, culminating in a wild-card-round exit, dashed their hopes despite a strong 10-1 start. Fast forward to this season, and the Eagles are back with an impressive 10-2 record, clinching first place in the NFC East after a thrilling 24-19 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.
How will it play out this time?
“We don’t care about last year,” Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni emphasized. “This is a different team that’s gelling and meshing on all cylinders right now.”
Turning the Tide Against the Ravens
Philadelphia faced a tough start, trailing 9-0 in the first quarter. The Eagles’ offense struggled initially, with Jalen Hurts going 1-for-5 for just 5 yards. Meanwhile, Lamar Jackson and the Ravens were on fire, accumulating 133 yards and seven first downs. But the Eagles’ defense, orchestrated by Vic Fangio, turned the game around, holding the Ravens to just three points until a late garbage-time touchdown.
“We just stick to the plan and let the game unfold,” said safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson.
One touchdown wasn’t enough to secure the win, but the Eagles showed resilience. They sacked Jackson three times and kept Derrick Henry in check with 19 carries for 82 yards. Rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean made a standout tackle in the fourth quarter, showcasing the team’s physical edge.
Defense Shines Brightly
- Key Defensive Stats:
- Sacks: 3
- Yards Allowed: 133
- First Downs: 7
| Player | Sacks | Yards Allowed | First Downs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lamar Jackson | 3 | 133 | 7 |
| Derrick Henry | – | 82 | – |
| Cooper DeJean | – | – | – |
“We learned from last year and implemented those lessons,” Sirianni noted. The coaching staff used previous games, like the match against Henry and the Titans in 2022, to motivate and prepare the defense.
Young Talent Making Waves
Linebacker Zack Baun, in his first season with the Eagles, shared his optimism. “We’re always trying to get better,” he said. The defense is loaded with young players full of potential, ready to make their mark.
Gardner-Johnson added, “Playing good ball every week is what matters.” The Eagles pride themselves on their physical play and ability to limit opponents’ scoring.
“That type of game, it’s a playoff game,” he remarked about facing the Ravens. “That’s a team you could probably see in the Super Bowl, so credit to our guys.”
Offensive Highlights and Key Plays
Running back Saquon Barkley didn’t have his MVP-level performance this game, but his 25-yard touchdown run was the game-winner. Hurts, despite completing only 11 of 19 passes for 118 yards, maintained a solid quarterback rating of 114.4 over the last eight games during the Eagles’ winning streak.
“I don’t believe in momentum. It’s just about striving to be the best team we can be,” Hurts stated. His focus remains on team improvement rather than individual accolades or rivalries.
Even injured wide receiver DeVonta Smith contributed by supporting the team from the sidelines. Sirianni mentioned Smith’s influence, especially in crucial fourth-down situations, highlighting the depth and teamwork within the squad.
Special Teams and Strategic Plays
Special teams played a crucial role in the Eagles’ victory. Punter Braden Mann was exceptional, pinning the Ravens inside their own 5-yard line three times. Five of his six punts were downed within the 20-yard line, giving Philadelphia excellent field position.
“Those are things that get you excited as a coach,” Sirianni commented. “It’s all about the field position battle.”
NFC Landscape: Eagles vs. Detroit Lions
This season, the NFC landscape has shifted. Instead of the San Francisco 49ers being the main threat, the Detroit Lions have emerged as strong contenders. Alongside Minnesota and Green Bay, the Lions have proven their mettle over the first three months. Meanwhile, Buffalo and Kansas City are leading the AFC, setting up intriguing matchups ahead.
“I think it shows what we can do when we focus,” right tackle Lane Johnson said. “But people need to understand that nothing is a given in this league.”
Johnson also pointed out the changes in the locker room. With key players like Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox retired, and Brandon Graham injured, maintaining focus is more important than ever.
“Do you want to lapse and think you have it made?” he rhetorically asked.
Adaptability and Continuous Improvement
A significant factor in the Eagles’ success has been their ability to adapt and make in-game adjustments. “That’s what leads to success – the teams that make the fewest mistakes and learn from mistakes,” Johnson explained.
Sirianni likened the season to climbing a mountain. “Look too far back or forward, and you might slip,” he said. The team understands the importance of staying present and consistent.
With eight wins in a row, the Eagles are proving that their steady, day-to-day grind is paying off. “We’re boring, but the monotony gets results,” Sirianni concluded.
