Eagles Stumble Against Giants as Injuries Mount
Injuries Leave Eagles Defense Vulnerable
The Philadelphia Eagles' stifling defense has been a major factor in their 4-2 start to the season, but key injuries have left them vulnerable heading into a critical stretch. Star cornerback Quinyon Mitchell and rookie defensive tackle Jalen Carter are both dealing with injuries that could sideline them for multiple weeks.
Mitchell's groin strain will likely keep him out for at least the next two games, forcing the Eagles to shuffle their secondary. Nickel cornerback Zech McPhearson may have to take on a larger role on the outside, while undrafted rookie Jakorian Bennett was just placed on injured reserve.
The loss of Carter is even more concerning for the Eagles' front seven. The first-round pick had emerged as a disruptive force in the middle of the defense, but a high-ankle sprain could keep him sidelined until November. His absence leaves a big hole that offenses will surely try to exploit.
Offensive Struggles Continue
While the defense has carried the Eagles for much of the season, the offense has sputtered at times. Thursday night's 34-17 loss to the New York Giants was the second straight defeat for Jalen Hurts and company.
Hurts threw an uncharacteristic interception and the Eagles managed just 339 total yards against a Giants defense that had struggled mightily in recent weeks. Wide receiver A.J. Brown even suggested that the team's play-calling has become too predictable for opponents to handle.
"We've got to find ways to be more efficient, more explosive," Hurts said after the game. "We've got to find ways to capitalize on opportunities."
The running game, usually a strength for the Eagles, was also held in check by the Giants. Miles Sanders and the offensive line failed to open up many holes, and the team averaged just 4.1 yards per carry.
Rookie QB Dazzles for Giants
While the Eagles' offense sputtered, the Giants' young signal-caller shined. Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart carved up the Eagles' defense, throwing for 231 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for 59 yards.
Dart's poise and playmaking ability were on full display as he led the Giants to their first NFC East win in nearly two years. The second-round pick out of USC connected with Wan'Dale Robinson and Cam Skattebo for big plays, and Skattebo finished with three rushing touchdowns.
"He's a special talent, and he showed that tonight," Giants head coach Brian Daboll said of Dart. "We knew we had to make plays against that defense, and Jaxson stepped up."
The loss drops the Eagles to 4-2 on the season, while the Giants improve to 2-4 and gain some much-needed momentum in the division race.
TL;DR
- Injuries to CB Quinyon Mitchell and DT Jalen Carter leave the Eagles' defense vulnerable
- Offensive struggles continue for Philly as Jalen Hurts throws an interception and the running game sputters
- Giants rookie QB Jaxson Dart shines, leading New York to a 34-17 upset victory over the Eagles