Sport
Eagles Advance in Playoffs with Win Over Packers
Jan
Eagles Overcome Packers 22-10 in NFC Wild-Card Playoff
The Philadelphia Eagles secured a 22-10 victory over the Green Bay Packers in the NFC wild-card playoff on January 12, 2025, at Lincoln Financial Field. This win propels the Eagles into the divisional round, where they will host the winner of the Vikings-Rams matchup.
Jalen Hurts’ Return and Offensive Highlights
Quarterback Jalen Hurts made a notable return after a three-week absence due to a concussion. He completed 12 of 20 passes for 131 yards and two touchdowns. Hurts began the game with six consecutive completions, including an 11-yard touchdown pass to Jahan Dotson following a fumble recovery on the opening kickoff. Despite some mid-game inconsistencies, Hurts demonstrated resilience, leading a crucial third-quarter drive capped by a 24-yard touchdown pass to tight end Dallas Goedert.
Running back Saquon Barkley, the NFL’s leading rusher with 2,005 yards during the regular season, contributed significantly with 119 rushing yards. His performance provided stability to the Eagles’ offense, especially during periods when the passing game faced challenges.
Dallas Goedert’s Memorable Touchdown
A standout moment occurred in the third quarter when Dallas Goedert transformed a short pass into a 24-yard touchdown. Employing three consecutive stiff-arms, Goedert overpowered Packers defensive back Carrington Valentine, showcasing remarkable strength and determination. Goedert remarked, “That was a really fun play. It might be my favorite touchdown of my career.”
Defensive Dominance
The Eagles’ defense was instrumental in the victory, forcing three turnovers and limiting the Packers to a single touchdown. Linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. recovered a fumble on the opening kickoff, setting up the Eagles’ initial score. Cornerback Darius Slay and linebacker Zack Baun each secured interceptions in the first half, disrupting the Packers’ offensive rhythm. Quinyon Mitchell sealed the game with a late fourth-quarter interception.
Packers’ Struggles and Injuries
The Packers faced multiple challenges, including turnovers and key injuries. Quarterback Jordan Love completed 19 of 35 passes for 212 yards but was intercepted three times. Running back Josh Jacobs provided a spark with 81 rushing yards and a touchdown, highlighted by a 31-yard run that set up the Packers’ lone score. However, injuries to wide receivers Romeo Doubs (concussion) and Jayden Reed (shoulder), as well as offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins (stinger) and Josh Myers (left leg), hindered the Packers’ ability to mount a comeback.
Special Teams and Kicking Game
Eagles kicker Jake Elliott contributed to the scoring with three field goals, connecting from 31, 32, and 30 yards. He did, however, miss an extra point following Goedert’s touchdown. On the Packers’ side, kicker Brandon McManus missed a 38-yard field goal attempt but later converted a 26-yarder, accounting for Green Bay’s only other points.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Eagles advance to the divisional round of the playoffs. Head coach Nick Sirianni acknowledged the need for offensive improvements, stating, “I don’t think we had the game we wanted to have on offense. Jalen did a lot of good things. Jalen is a winner. He wins. No one can argue that.” The team will focus on refining their performance as they prepare to host their next opponent.
The Packers conclude their season with this loss, facing an offseason filled with decisions regarding player health and potential roster adjustments. Head coach Matt LaFleur commented on the Eagles’ defense, stating, “They got good players. Even when we were running the quick game, they were triggering and coming downhill and smacking us in the back too many times. They played better than us, bottom line.”
The Eagles’ balanced attack and defensive prowess have positioned them as formidable contenders as they progress further into the postseason.
