The Eagles will need to do more than switch defensive play-callers after allowing 17 second-half points and a disappointing 92-yard drive, giving the Seahawks a 20-17 win over Philadelphia.
Drew Lock shined as the backup to injured quarterback Geno Smith, going 22 of 33 passing for 208 yards, one touchdown, and a 94.0 rating.
After a slow start, DK Metcalf had five catches for 48 yards, while Jaxon Smith-Njigba finished with four catches for 48 yards and the miraculous touchdown catch.
Philadelphia has now lost three games in a row, and we’re looking at an instant analysis of the shocking defeat.
Kenneth Walker III
After a stout first half, the Eagles’ defense was gashed on the second half’s opening drive.
.@Kenneth_Walker9 cuts back for a 23-yard TD!
📺: #PHIvsSEA on ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/bbJNB6yPkz pic.twitter.com/Kp48DcMVsQ— NFL (@NFL) December 19, 2023
Walker finished the matchup with 19 carries for 86 yards and a touchdown.
Brandon Graham/Fletcher Cox
This was the only highlight of the evening, as the duo combined for 2 tackles, 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss.
The VETS @fcoxx_91 x @brandongraham55#ProBowlVote pic.twitter.com/ISBJ0uJrms
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) December 19, 2023
DK Metcalf gets unshackled
After a quiet first half, Metcalf exploded for 5 catches and 78 yards, including a 34 yard gain late in the fourth quarter.
What a final offensive series for DK Metcalf. pic.twitter.com/6qFbccCtkt
— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) December 19, 2023
Eagles offensive woes
D’Adnrew Swift led the charge with 10 carries for 36 yards in the first half, while Gainwell logged 5 carries for 18 yards.
Swift had 8 carries in the second half, and Philadelphia logged 9 total rushing plays in the second half, choosing to rely on Jalen Hurts for 16 more pass attempts and 65 yards.
Lock outplayed Hurts
Lock was 22 of 33 for 208 yards on the night, and the one big touchdown pass at the end. Hurts, who was questionable to play with an illness, had 13 carries for 82 yards and two touchdowns, but was just 17 of 31 passing for 143 yards and the two interceptions.
NFC playoff picture
Seattle (7-7) joined four teams currently at .500 that are battling for the NFC’s last two playoff spots, while Philadelphia remains tied with Dallas in the NFC East. The defending NFC champion Eagles have already secured a playoff spot.