Eagles Beat Giants 20-13: Tanner McKee Shines in Hurts’ Absence
The Philadelphia Eagles wrapped up the regular season with a 20-13 win over the New York Giants on Sunday, in a game that featured backup quarterback Tanner McKee leading the line. It was McKee’s first time in a starting role, along with a host of other reserves, as the Eagles decided to rest key players ahead of the playoffs.
Key Rest Tactics
Coming into the game, the Eagles announced plans to rest several key players early on, with the team already assured of a spot in the NFC playoffs. However, the absence of Jalen Hurts wasn’t entirely tactical. The team’s star quarterback is still recovering from a concussion after suffering a hard hit in Week 16.
Hurts’ absence has opened up an opportunity for McKee, a first-year rookie, to showcase his abilities. Despite limited playing time this season, McKee has been solid and composed as a starting quarterback, completing 18 of 27 passes, scoring one touchdown, and making no major errors.
Jalen Hurts Status
Head coach Nick Sirianni held a press conference after the game, confirming that Jalen Hurts participated in Friday’s practice. Sirianni was tight-lipped about Hurts’ specifics but said the quarterback is “progressing as he’s supposed to.”
“Guys, he’s progressing with the protocol,” Sirianni said with a wry smile when asked about Hurts’ concussion. “I respect the question, but we’ve talked about it a lot. What I can tell you is he’s doing what he needs to do.”
Hurts has missed two weeks of games and practice since the injury, and there’s no timetable for his return. However, with the Eagles already in the playoffs, the team hopes the break will be enough time for Hurts to fully recover before the big game.
Playoffs A Look In The Air
Following their win over the Giants, the Philadelphia Eagles will host the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship Game on Saturday, Jan. 11. That’ll be a big test for the team, especially if Hurts remains sidelined. However, McKee’s consistent performance gives the coaching staff and fans confidence.
The Green Bay Packers are a tough opponent, with a strong offense and a solid defense. The Eagles will need to prepare carefully to enter the match with the highest spirit.
If Hurts can return, Philadelphia will have a big advantage in the race to the Super Bowl. If not, Tanner McKee will continue to be the team’s hope, as the Eagles aim to go further in the playoffs.
Conclusion
The victory over the Giants is an important stepping stone, not only for the Eagles to finish the regular season on a high note, but also to test their squad depth. Despite Jalen Hurts’ absence, the Eagles still have potential players ready to shine when the opportunity arises. All eyes are on the big matchup with the Packers, where the Eagles will continue to conquer their Super Bowl dream.