The Eagles had enough help to win Sunday. Their offense did not do enough with it.
Two interceptions, a 41-yard punt return from Britain Covey, and two touchdown catches from Darius Cooper helped Philadelphia build a 20-10 halftime lead. That advantage disappeared in a 24-20 loss to the Rams because the Eagles could not produce a single second-half point. In a similar showing for last season, Philadelphia gained 72 yards after halftime. Jalen Hurts completed two of nine second-half passes for 10 yards. The offense finished 0-for-12 on third down and converted just one of four fourth-down attempts.
The injuries matter in the end. Losing Saquon Barkley during a game already being played without Lane Johnson and DeVonta Smith reduced Philadelphia’s
options. But those absences do not eliminate the need for answers against pressure or explain every stalled possession. Nick Sirianni’s failed fourth-and-goal gamble left the Rams within 10 points. The defense then surrendered touchdown drives of 98 and 79 yards. We'll discuss those breakdowns in length this week.
Still, Philadelphia repeatedly asked its defense to compensate for an offense that could not stay on the field. The Eagles found their first takeaways of the season and still lost. That is how costly their offensive problems have become.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Instant analysis of Eagles' disappointing 24-20 loss to the Rams
