The Philadelphia Eagles finally return home for the first time in over two weeks to take on the Taylor Heinicke-led Washington Commanders on Monday Night Football.
Heading into the regular season, this game was circled by most Eagles fans and media members as the return of Carson Wentz to Philadelphia. Unfortunately, Wentz is not playing due to a hand injury he suffered in Week 6 to the Bears.
The last time these two teams met, the Eagles’ defense got to Wentz nine times and made him uncomfortable under center. Heinicke has now taken the reins at quarterback for the Commanders and has helped Washington win two out of their past three games. He has thrown for an average of 209.6 yards, five passing touchdowns, and three interceptions in those three games.
Taylor Heinicke ➡️ Curtis Samuel for 6️⃣ pic.twitter.com/rf5W9F3Kfy
— NBC Sports Commanders (@NBCSCommanders) November 6, 2022
Washington has had some trouble running the football even after the return of rookie running back Brian Robinson, as they rank 22nd in the NFL in rushing yards per game (108). However, it should be an intriguing matchup as the Eagles are still without rookie defensive tackle Jordan Davis, who is on injured reserve with an ankle injury. Last week, the Eagles gave up 139 rushing yards to Texans rookie running back Dameon Pierce. Philadelphia currently ranks 20th against the run this season (121.4 yards per game).
Nevertheless, the good thing for the Eagles is they continue to find ways to win games, led by their young quarterback Jalen Hurts. Hurts is one of the frontrunners for MVP this season and has elevated his play every week.
The 24-year-old can be dynamic with his legs and through the air. In eight games this season, Hurts has a career-best 68.2 completion percentage and has run for 326 yards.
“Accountability is everything. Honesty is everything. Being honest with yourself and your standard and trying to play to your standard all the time, I think that’s the most important thing”
-Jalen Hurts on why Eagles will stay humble and not be complacent tonight being 8-0 pic.twitter.com/plgnKtcpwN
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) November 14, 2022
In their previous game against the Commanders in Week 3, the Eagles won 24-8 at FedEx Field. All 24 points came in the second quarter, making it a common theme for the Eagles this season.
Heading into tonight’s game, both teams have some notable injuries, as linebacker David Mayo and running back J.D. McKissic will both be out for the Commanders. The Eagles will be without cornerback Avonte Maddox who was placed on injured reserve Monday. Philadelphia promoted UDFA cornerback Mario Goodrich from the practice squad to replace Maddox.
The game will be broadcasted on ESPN with Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, and Lisa Salters on the call.
[Photo: Geoff Burke/USA TODAY Sports]
