A win is a win and in the NFL you take them any way you can get them. However, there was certainly ample cause for concern for Eagles’ fans after scraping by to defeat Detroit in a high scoring Week 1 affair. Perhaps chief among these concerns was a defense that seemed to have no answers, and nearly forfeited a robust 17 point late lead. However, the worries go beyond a lacking pass rush.
Thrown Off
Throughout the off-season, reports indicated that the Eagles and quarterback Jalen Hurts were committed to reforming the passing attack. In fact, the front office lent credence to this assertion when they invested draft capital and financial resources to acquire stud wideout A.J. Brown.
And though Brown matched career highs in both receptions (10) and yards (155), he was the lone bright spot in the passing game. Second year phenom, DeVonta Smith, was without a catch while Dallas Goedert managed just three for the game.
Off and Running
This shortage of opportunities can be directly attributed to Hurts and a penchant for abandoning the pocket at the mere insinuation of pressure. Hurts would, in fact, accumulate an astounding 17 rushing attempts during the game, just one shy of his career high.
Now, the devil’s advocate could absolutely argue that the mobility of Jalen Hurts actually was the difference maker in the season opener. And with 6 first downs and a touchdown through his legs, it would be hard to argue that viewpoint. In fact, this is what makes Jalen Hurts such an enigmatic figure.
To strip Hurts entirely of his tremendous rushing ability is to remove perhaps his finest asset. However, to be entirely one dimensional is to be vulnerable to skilled defenses, a lesson learned from last season’s playoff blowout against the Buccaneers.
Balancing Act
Balance is the key to success for this offensive attack. Hurts must be smart with his rushes. Avoid contact whenever possible. Keep eyes downfield when scrambling. Prioritize passing opportunities while on the move. It is these factors that were missing in Detroit, and elements that will be entirely necessary in order for the Eagles to meet ever increasing expectations.
One area that fans need not be concerned about when it comes to Hurts is work ethic. In his postgame press conference he told the assembled media that despite the win, the effort “didn’t meet [his] standard.” He knows what needs attention and he will continue to work on it. Only time will tell if he is successful in transforming his game. But it’s fair to say that the intertwining of his personal fate with that of his team is one situation that even he cannot escape.
If you enjoyed this piece on Jalen Hurts, please share it with a friend. Or, to continue the conversation, just comment below or reach out to me on Twitter @Spydes78. Also, make sure to stay connected to Gridiron Heroics for comprehensive coverage of all your favorite football teams and topics. Thanks for reading and be well!