Philly Dominates Former QB

The Eagles faced their first division game Sunday afternoon against the Washington Commanders. This wasn't just any division game either, this was against former Eagles' quarterback Carson Wentz. The commanders were 1-1 coming into the game, while Wentz had been looking better than many expected. However, his good play would end when the Eagles' defensive line absolutely ate the opposing offensive line up. Hurts showed once again what an elite offense can look like. Meanwhile, Wentz was in a quarterback nightmare, which helped the Eagles to a 24-8 victory in yet another dominant performance on both sides of the ball.

Major Takeaways:

1. Hurts is a MVP candidate

• Jalen Hurts once again has shown how much he worked in the offseason. The way he is leading the offense shows signs this team can go far. His ability to throw in the pocket, and accuracy on throws continues to look sharp. He looks confident, comfortable, and driven to make the right plays on offense. His play is what's leading an offense that many are praising because of their ability to pass and rush efficiently. Hurts once again finished with over 300 yards, along with 3 touchdowns, and a QBR of 85.8. If Lamar Jackson wasn't playing right now, Hurts would be the MVP favorite.

2. Defensive line dominated

• With a loaded defensive line, the Eagles showed what they can do when pressuring the quarterback. Facing former teammate Carson Wentz, the d-line finished with a league high, nine sacks in the game. With the struggling Commanders line, the defense looked to attack at all measures, finishing with six different players tallying a sack. 17 quarterback hits also added to the impressive stats for the defense. The d-line was the anchor for the defense in this game and helped to what was another dominant defensive performance.

3. Eagles have a top receiver tandem

• AJ Brown and Devonta Smith have proven early in the season that they are up there for top receiving duo in the league. Having both of these receivers has elevated the offense to new heights, and given Hurts what he needs to be great. Between the two was 22 targets, 13 receptions, 254 yards, and two touchdowns on Sunday. This isn't the first game the receivers have shown out either, as Brown went over 100 yards in week one, and Smith doing the same on Sunday. Now that Hurts is starting to get both involved, cornerbacks are going to have nightmares playing Philadelphia here on out.

4. Wentz and company were in shambles

• DEFENSE, DEFENSE, DEFENSE. The Eagles for a second week in a row allowed only one touchdown in the game. Last week only allowing seven points, and Sunday only allowing six points. Along with the nine sacks on Wentz, they were pressuring and covering the receivers like glue. Holding Wentz to an 11.4 QBR and 58% completion rate, the defense dominated all game long. Although they only produced one turnover, they were able to hold the Commanders under 250 yards of offense. If this defense continues to play at this level, it could be truly special for the team.

5. Second half offense struggles continue

• With all of the positives to start the season, there is one question mark pertaining to the offense in the second half. After scoring 14 points in the second half in week one, the Eagles have scored a total of zero points in the second half the past two weeks. Although the offense looks great in the first half, it is worrying that the offense will continue to struggle in the second half which could lead to meltdowns. The promising side of things is the defense is playing elite and not allowing the opposing side any offense either. Of course this is a small issue that should be resolved very quickly when it matters most.

Notable Stats:

Jalen Hurts (QB) - 22/35, 340 Yds, 3 TD

Devonta Smith (WR) - 8 Rec, 169 Yds, 1 TD

AJ Brown (WR) - 5 Rec, 85 Yds, 1 TD

TJ Edwards (LB) - 10 TOT, 1 Sack, 2 TFL

Brandon Graham (DE) - 6 TOT, 2.5 Sacks, 1 FF, 5 QB Hits

Reddick/Cox/Sweat (DL) - 1.5 Sacks Each

The Birds now look to continue their dominance on former coach Doug Pederson and the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-1) next Sunday.