Philadelphia Eagles (1-1) – Atlanta Falcons (1-1): 21-22
In a more defensive game than expected, the Eagles thought they had won a precious victory. But it was Atlanta that finally won this game on a touchdown by Drake London in the last minute of the game. However, Atlanta still has work to do, between a borrowed Kirk Cousins and a chronic inefficiency in the red zone. This end of the game could act as a trigger for this group that knew how to play the best football at the best time. Bijan Robinson held this team together. The running game is in place, there is something to build on.
Jalen Hurts was much better than in the first game, making no mistakes and being decisive on the ground. His interception in the last minute looked more like a desperate attempt. Saquon Barkley was good, but his late drop cost the game. The defense was not up to par, and needs to get its act together quickly given the upcoming deadlines.
The Eagles lead the NFC East but will have to prepare for two more NFC South games, against the Saints and Buccaneers. They will have to win at least one.
Atlanta is revived in the NFC South, and can move forward serenely towards week 3.
Strong defenses
After an initial punt exchange, the Eagles started strong on offense, led by an excellent Saquon Barkley. But the Falcons' defense held firm, preventing Philadelphia from scoring on a fourth attempt.
It would take until the Eagles' fourth drive to see the first touchdown of the game. While Hurts dominated on the ground, it was ultimately Devonta Smith who made the difference in a controlled touchdown.
The Falcons are no more inspired in attack, relying exclusively on Bijan Robinson to advance. Twice Atlanta is in good position, but is content with two field goals (7-6). After a dull first half, it is the Eagles who return to the locker room with a narrow lead.
Kirk Cousins as Savior
The second act begins like the first: running for the Falcons, Devonta Smith for the Eagles. After a field goal exchange, it is finally Atlanta who shows up. Kirk Cousins finally wakes up from his slumber, and finds Darnell Mooney for the touchdown (10-15). For the first time in the game, the Eagles have their backs to the wall.
And that's when Jalen Hurts answers the call, with a controlled drive. Jalen Hurts uses his legs again, helped by Saquon Barkley and Britain Covey. With a “QB sneak” at the end, Philadelphia's trademark (18-15).
Atlanta has a chance to get back into the game, but Bijan Robinson is stopped on a fourth attempt by CJ Gardner-Johnson, who delivers the Eagles and gives them back control of the game. The Eagles control the clock, but a drop by Saquon Barkley gives the Falcons another chance (21-15).
That's when Kirk Cousins will pull off a magnificent drive, cutting through the Eagles' defense in just over a minute. Drake London is at the conclusion, to give the Falcons the lead again (21-22). Checkmate, and victory for the Falcons.
