Eagles & Patriots Trade Blows, Philly Leads at Halftime
The Philadelphia Eagles were met with a timely downpour at the start of Sunday's season opener against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium.
For offenses, this often means bad news. But for the Eagles defense, the rain seemed to provide an early jolt for big plays. Philly took advantage of this and held a 16-14 lead headed into halftime despite a late surge from the Patriots.
The Eagles got things started with a major highlight from cornerback Darius Slay in the first quarter. He reeled in a tipped pass and returned it 70 yards to the house for Philly's first touchdown of the season. It marks the fifth touchdown of Slay's career.
On the Patriots' next offensive play, the Eagles defense forced a fumble of former Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott. Philly linebacker Zach Cunningham recovered, and the Eagles had possession right after Slay's score.
Jalen Hurts then got to lead a short four-play, 26-play drive that ended with a five-yard touchdown from DeVonta Smith. The Eagles built a 16-0 lead, but then proceeded to go three-and-out on their next four drives of the half.
After the Patriots had had almost nothing to cheer for to start the game, they suddenly came to life.
New England quarterback Mac Jones led back-to-back scoring drives that ended with passing touchdowns to tight end Hunter Henry and receiver Kendrick Bourne.
The Eagles had been punched back in the mouth after doing damage early. It's now anyone's game headed into the third quarter.
