The atmosphere surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles isn’t reflective of an 8-2 team currently leading the NFC and reigning as Super Bowl champions.
Though they have secured victories over the Packers and Lions recently, the wins were narrowly achieved, heavily relying on a robust defense, while the offensive play has been rather minimal. This situation has proven to be uncomfortable for fans and players alike, particularly concerning the performance of key offensive players.
Star receiver A.J. Brown has openly expressed frustration regarding the shortage of targets, and a recent piece from The Athletic indicated his sentiments aren’t solitary. Some players within the Eagles feel that Hurts is hesitant in making tough throws, prioritizing caution over risk, which hampers their chance for explosive plays.
On Wednesday, Hurts addressed these issues with the media, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with being the starting quarterback. He expressed a readiness to hold himself accountable for the offensive setbacks experienced by the team.
“I guess I get a lot of attention when things are going well and when things are not going so well,” Hurts stated. “I never run away from holding myself accountable… That obviously starts with me.”
Honing in on statistical performance, the Eagles rank near the bottom with 31st in passing attempts and 28th in passing yards this season. Hurts has thrown for 202 yards or fewer in 7 out of 10 games. Such measures inevitably frustrate the star receivers, yet the Eagles still find success, ranking 7-0 in such games while underperforming at 1-2 when they aimed for a greater offensive yield.
Hurts’ conservative approach has surely contributed to his single interception this season, representing a lower risk but limiting scoring opportunities. Given their strong defense, focusing on avoiding turnovers is a rational strategy, although it doesn’t always translate to viewer enjoyment.
As the playoffs loom closer, there’s mounting pressure for Hurts and the Eagles to rev up their offensive capabilities. They previously boasted a powerhouse offense last year, supported by a formidable ground game and an effective passing attack. However, the current year’s inconsistency raises questions about their ability to effectively compete under postseason pressure. As Hurts and the Eagles gear for an anticipated playoff push, fans hope for a repeat of the exhilarating performances from last season.
