Early last week, Titans star defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons made comments about forcing Jalen Hurts to be a quarterback in their Week 2 matchup, insinuating they could beat the Eagles if they made the offense rely on the passing game. Jordan Mailata wouldn’t entertain the comments when asked about it days later, and Nolan Smith expressed his disinterest in similar tactics and instead complimented Tennessee QB Cam Ward.
All of this culminated in Jalen Hurts leading the Eagles on a nine-play, game-winning
drive late in the game on Sunday afternoon, and Simmons and Hurts having a moment on the field post-game. The Eagles QB was in the middle of an interview when Simmons came over to show respect, and thankfully Kristina Pink of FOX Sports inched the mic closer to the pair so we could hear the exchange.
Hurts was sure to let Simmons know, “You started that shit, I had to finish it.”
And with that, the QB went back to finish his interview.
Hurts finished the game 26-of-37 for 264 yards and two touchdowns. The quarterback did throw two interceptions, but overall, had a really impressive performance considering Saquon Barkley was in and out of the game, Dallas Goedert was sidelined in the first half, and they were dealing with a new combination up front.
After the game, Simmons tried to clarify his comments from earlier in the week, and walk back the intent behind them. He explained that he meant no disrespect to the former Super Bowl MVP, and only meant that keeping Hurts from being able to escape the pocket and use his legs would be their best chance to win.
Whether he intended to disrespect Hurts or not, the QB made it clear in his post-game press conference that he heard Simmons’ comments.
