After an excruciating first half against the LA Rams, a change of intent provided Jalen Hurts with a platform to shine.
The Philadelphia Eagles are making a habit of grinding out victories that their performances probably do not warrant.
However, any sports fan can tell you that this is an essential attribute of champions.
Nevertheless, another change in offensive coordinator has seen the Eagles’ star quarterback’s production stifled.
Hurts threw for just 101 in the previous triumph over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Offensive playcalling questioned
Despite chalking up a 33-26 victory over the Rams on Sunday, Philadelphia fans have again questioned the competence of Kevin Patullo’s offensive play calling.
In particular, his refusal to target star wide receiver AJ Brown in the majority of drives is a cause for concern.
Throughout the first two quarters of play, Hurts only completed four passes out of eight attempts, totalling 17 yards.
After fumbling possession at the start of the third quarter and allowing the Rams to put more points on the board on the next play, Philadelphia found themselves trailing 26-7.
Hurts sparks offense into life
Experts and former players such as Cam Newton questioned the Super Bowl LIX MVP’s credentials in the offseason.
But on Sunday, Hurts showcased his devastating arm in the second half. Patullo allowed him to play with more freedom, which inspired his teammates to an incredible comeback.
Once the 27-year-old was given the licence to express himself, he sensationally completed 21 passes from 32 attempts.
He recorded 226 yards, allowing the Eagles to accumulate 26 unanswered points as Los Angeles crumbled to defeat.
A blueprint for success
This was not just a statement victory for the reigning Super Bowl champions. It was also an indication of how the offense should be run moving forward.
If Patullo continues to centre his offensive game plan around the record-breaking Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia’s opponents will continue to limit their ability to put points on the board.
Hurts has proven on multiple occasions that if the offensive coordinator permits him to vary his receivers and establish another dimension to the offense, he can carry this team to another championship.
But if Kevin Patullo persists with suffocating Jalen Hurts in a strait jacket and restricting his creativity, the Eagles’ campaign will come crashing down catastrophically.
