Hurts shines in new offensive system
The Philadelphia Eagles started their season with a tight 24-22 victory over the Washington Commanders. It was the first time quarterback Jalen Hurts ran the offense under new coordinator Sean Mannion. While the new system features more snaps under center, motion, and throws over the middle, it was Hurts' ability to improvise that secured the win.
Left tackle Jordan Mailata praised his quarterback after the game. Mailata said that Hurts is able to make plays when the play isn't there. This quality proved vital when the planned plays broke down.
Unrehearsed plays and big gains
A major turning point came in the first quarter with a 64 yard completion to Dontayvion Wicks. Wicks explained that he was supposed to run a clear out route to open space for Dallas Goedert. The team had practiced the play several times during practice, and Wicks was never targeted once. Instead of throwing to Goedert, Hurts threw it deep to Wicks, who caught it over three defenders.
Three plays later, Hurts threw a 17 yard touchdown to Goedert. Later in the fourth quarter, with the Eagles holding a slim one point lead, Hurts faced a difficult third and 18. The offense had started the second half with three straight three and outs, and some boos came from the crowd. Hurts ran for 22 yards to keep the drive alive. He followed that with a 43 yard touchdown pass to Goedert to seal the win.
Perfect opening record
After his first touchdown pass, Hurts celebrated by shrugging at the sideline. The touchdown came on a play call that Hurts had suggested during the team's playoff loss last season. When asked about it, Hurts smiled and said it is a great play and that people would try to figure it out.
When asked if he felt the need to take over games, Hurts said it is not something he forces but is about meeting the moment when the opportunity comes. With this victory, Hurts improved his career record in season openers to 6-0 as a starter. This was also the second time in his career that he threw three touchdowns in an opening game, with the first happening in 2021 at Atlanta.
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