Washington Commanders Defense Presented 'Great Challenge,' Says Philadelphia Eagles QB Jalen Hurts
For the second time in five weeks, the Washington Commanders went toe-to-toe with the defending NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles, but again fell just short in a 38-31 loss at FedEx Field on Sunday.
Regardless of the final point total, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has now twice experienced a Commanders defense that he calls "a great challenge."
“I mean, you know, they had some guys banged up defensively and offensively," Hurts said. "I know 57 [LB Cody Barton] didn't play today, one of their safeties didn't play as well. Had some changes in the back end for them, but Coach [Ron Rivera], their DC [Jack Del Rio] does a great job all the time. I feel like he's always done a great job, especially when he sees us twice a year, you know, so great challenge for us and I'm glad we overcame it.”
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts
© Brad Mills, USA TODAY
The defense has been arguably one of the weakest links for the Commanders this season, but the unit showed some positive strides against a dangerous Eagles offense. Jack Del Rio's group recovered two goal-line fumbles - one of which was committed by Hurts on the infamous "Brotherly Shove" - and held the Eagles out of the end zone until the final seconds of the first half.
However, the Eagles exploded in the second half, which was highlighted by a 21-point fourth quarter. What once seemed like a stout defensive performance against one of the best teams in the league instead resulted in the second-most points Washington has given up in a game this season.
The Commanders are certainly disappointed after coming within one score of beating the Eagles both times this season, but the team now has a ton of positives to take from the Week 8 loss ahead of Sunday's clash with the New England Patriots in Foxboro.
