EAGLES COACH BLASTS OFFENSE AFTER WILD FINISH KEEPS PERFECT RECORD ALIVE

Sep 29, 202525 views

EAGLES COACH BLASTS OFFENSE AFTER WILD FINISH KEEPS PERFECT RECORD ALIVE

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Philadelphia Eagles are 4-0, but it doesn’t feel like your standard undefeated start. It’s more like a weekly roller coaster ride, filled with big plays, second-half stumbles, and last-minute heroics. Sunday’s 31-25 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was yet another example.

The Fast Start, The Immediate Collapse

In the first half, the Eagles looked like world-beaters. Jalen Hurts was nearly automatic (15-for-16), finding Dallas Goedert for two touchdowns out of the near-unblockable "tush push" formation. Special teams even set a definitive tone, blocking a punt and returning it for a score. At halftime, the 24-6 lead made them look every bit the Super Bowl contender.

And then came the second half blackout.

The numbers are striking: just 33 total yards in the second half, and Hurts didn’t complete a single pass (0-for-8). The Buccaneers tightened up, the offensive line couldn't hold, especially after right tackle Lane Johnson exited with an injury, and the offense completely vanished. What could’ve been a rout turned into a nail-biter.

Resilience Isn’t Optional: The Defense Steps Up

The defense and special teams saved the day. Rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell made two massive plays—forcing a fumble and delivering a clutch interception in the end zone. The game was ultimately sealed when cornerback Parry Nickerson—who hadn’t played a single NFL snap in two years—made a game-saving tackle on fourth down with 53 seconds left.

Postgame, Coach Nick Sirianni was gravely honest, noting that the struggle wasn't just the O-line or the quarterback—it was everyone.

Big Picture: Winning Ugly is Still Winning

The Eagles know the formula needs refining, particularly with consistency in the second half. However, they've now won 20 of their last 21 games. That number doesn’t lie. Their ability to win ugly—to find different players stepping up in different moments—is the hallmark of a team built for the long haul.

Sunday gave Philly both a win and a wake-up call. The message isn't cryptic: The Eagles don’t just have to be better—they can be better. And that might be the most terrifying part for the rest of the league.

The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for their Week 5 showdown against the Denver Broncos, but troubling news has emerged surrounding one of their most reliable weapons. Tight end Dallas Goedert was a surprise addition to the injury report, missing Wednesday’s practice with a knee issue. NFL insider Mike Garafolo and ESPN’s Tim McManus both confirmed the update, sparking immediate concern among fans. Goedert had already missed time in Week 2 with a knee sprain before returning for Weeks 3 and 4, playing more than 75 percent of offensive snaps. Now, this new setback raises fresh questions about durability at a critical stretch of the season. Through three games, the veteran tight end has caught 12 passes for 114 yards and three touchdowns, proving to be one of Jalen Hurts’ most trusted red-zone targets. Without him, the offense may be forced to adjust. Expect Hurts to lean more heavily on AJ Brown, DeVonta Smith, and even Saquon Barkley in passing downs. Backup tight ends Grant Calcaterra and Kylen Granson could also see bigger roles, while the Eagles might shift more toward their dominant ground game to balance the attack. The Eagles’ latest injury report also listed Jalen Carter, Nakobe Dean, and Lane Johnson as limited participants, but Goedert’s absence is the most significant storyline. At 30 years old, his leadership and versatility remain vital to the team’s offensive rhythm. As the undefeated Eagles head into Week 5 at Lincoln Financial Field, Goedert’s availability could directly impact the game plan. Head coach Nick Sirianni is expected to wait until later in the week before finalizing the tight end’s status, leaving fans anxious for updates.