Trailing 17-10 midway through the third quarter, the Philadelphia Eagles mounted an electrifying comeback, spearheaded by quarterback Jalen Hurts. The Eagles’ signal-caller led his team on three consecutive scoring drives, culminating in a nail-biting 27-24 victory over the visiting Minnesota Vikings.
The Turnaround
Hurts, who finished with 282 passing yards and 2 touchdowns, sparked the Eagles’ resurgence. Facing a 2nd-and-10 from their own 20-yard line, Hurts connected with DeVonta Smith for a 32-yard gain. This pivotal play ignited the Eagles’ offense, setting the stage for a 9-play, 80-yard drive.
Hurts’ Heroics
The Eagles’ quarterback showcased his dual-threat ability:
1. 4th-and-5 Conversion: Hurts scrambled for 12 yards, extending the drive.
2. Touchdown Pass: Hurts found Dallas Goedert for a 5-yard score, narrowing the deficit to 17-17.
Eagles’ Defense Steps Up
Philadelphia’s defense, which had struggled earlier, stiffened:
1. Three-and-Out: The Vikings were forced to punt after a mere 3 plays.
2. Interception: Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson picked off Kirk Cousins, setting up the Eagles’ go-ahead drive.
Go-Ahead Drive
Hurts led the Eagles on a masterful 11-play, 75-yard march:
1. 23-Yard Completion: Hurts connected with Quez Watkins.
2. 1-Yard TD Run: Miles Sanders punched in the go-ahead score.
Final Minutes
Minnesota’s last-ditch effort ended when:
1. Cousins’ Hail Mary: Was intercepted by cornerback Darius Slay.
2. Eagles’ Victory Formation: Hurts took a knee, securing the 27-24 win.
Post-Game Reaction
“We believed in each other,” Hurts said. “We knew we had the talent and resilience to overcome adversity.”
Coach Nick Sirianni added, “Jalen’s leadership and poise under pressure were instrumental in our comeback.”
Notable Performances
– Jalen Hurts: 22/32, 282 passing yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT; 12 rushes, 57 yards
– DeVonta Smith: 7 receptions, 93 yards
– Dallas Goedert: 5 receptions, 55 yards, 1 TD
– Miles Sanders: 22 rushes, 80 yards, 1 TD
Division Standings
The Eagles’ victory maintains their NFC East lead:
1. Philadelphia Eagles (7-1)
2. Dallas Cowboys (5-3)
3. Washington Commanders (3-5)
4. New York Giants (2-6)
Up Next
The Eagles visit the AFC North-leading Baltimore Ravens (7-1) in Week 9.
Key Takeaways
1. Jalen Hurts’ clutch gene: The QB has led three game-winning drives this season.
2. Eagles’ defense rises to the occasion: Philadelphia’s unit has allowed just 20 points per game over the last four weeks.
3. DeVonta Smith’s emergence: The second-year WR has 25+ receptions and 300+ yards over the last four games.
