Eagles Offense Sputters Again, Defense Unable to Stop Bears’ Rushing Attack in Costly Loss

The Eagles played on Black Friday to rebound from a Dallas Cowboys loss. All week, quarterback Jalen Hurts stressed that great teams overcome adversity. Another lackluster, frustrating game for the Eagles disappointed the home crowd and dropped them in the NFC standings.

Chicago Bears beat Philadelphia 24-15 in a bad contest. The Eagles’ defense struggled throughout Chicago’s unrelenting run attack, while the offense frequently stopped early drives.

Hurts had 230 passing yards, most after the game against Chicago, but he lost two fumbles, one on a short-yardage push. The defense and crowd were antsy after four three-and-outs and inconsistent offense.

Eagles defense struggled, allowing 426 yards, 282 on the run. Great Illinois’ rushing combination pursued the Eagles. Newcomer Kyle Monangai ran for 130 yards on 22 and former Eagle D’Andre Swift for 125 yards and a touchdown on 18. Philadelphia fought, but early victory gave the Bears confidence.

Early defensive mistakes hurt Eagles. Chicago had 13 first downs and easy ball movement in its opening three series. A few crucial saves kept it close, but the Eagles’ trench loss won.

Several offensive momentum-shifting chances were missed. The worst was early in the second quarter when DeVonta Smith had downfield scoring space. Hurts passed behind Eagles, who made a field goal. Philadelphia remained neutral as Hurts had 57 passing yards at halftime and the run game never started.

Stadium discontent was evident. Many fans were angry when Hurts intercepted early in the second half. A quick touchdown drive and A.J. Brown pass gave the Eagles momentum, but a botched extra point ended it.

After a long interception in Chicago territory, Philadelphia tried to take the lead late in the third quarter. Hurts lost the ball before first down on an Eagles third-and-short. Bears recovered and gathered steam. After two weeks of failing on their signature short-yardage play, the Eagles may be losing steam.

The Bears improve to 9-3 and second in the NFC, while the Eagles slip to 8-4 and third. After losing its 1.5-game lead over the Cowboys, Philadelphia confronts a tough stretch.

On December 8, the Eagles played in LA after a long holiday. Teams can modify offense, reestablish defensive discipline, and heal before playoffs with more downtime.

In the coming weeks, Philadelphia’s resilient club will learn if it can turn its season around.

Sources

NFL postgame statements and updates
Conference remarks