What's Happening?
The Philadelphia Eagles have decided to start Tanner McKee as quarterback in their Week 18 game against the Washington Commanders, resting Jalen Hurts. This decision, made by head coach Nick Sirianni, comes despite the potential to improve their playoff seeding from the No. 3 to the No. 2 spot in the NFC. The Eagles' seeding depends on their performance against the Commanders and the outcome of the Chicago Bears vs. Detroit Lions game. If the Eagles win and the Bears lose, they will secure the No. 2 seed, which would allow them to host the Green Bay Packers in the playoffs. However, the Eagles have prioritized ensuring Hurts' health for the playoffs, as only the No. 1 seed receives a bye week.
Why It's Important?
The decision to rest Jalen Hurts highlights the Eagles'
strategic focus on player health over immediate seeding advantages. This move could influence their playoff performance, as a healthy Hurts is crucial for their offensive success. The Eagles' choice reflects a broader trend in the NFL where teams prioritize long-term playoff readiness over short-term gains. This decision could impact the dynamics of the NFC playoffs, as the Eagles' seeding will determine their opponents and potential home-field advantage. The outcome of this game and the Bears vs. Lions game will be closely watched by fans and analysts, as it will shape the playoff landscape.
What's Next?
The Eagles will face either the Packers, 49ers, or Rams in the playoffs, depending on the results of Week 18 games. The team will continue to monitor Hurts' health and prepare for their playoff matchup. The decision to rest key players like Hurts could set a precedent for other teams in similar situations, influencing how they approach the final games of the regular season. The Eagles' performance in the playoffs will be a test of their strategy and depth, particularly at the quarterback position.
