UPDATE: The Philadelphia Eagles are NFC East champions for the second consecutive year after a hard-fought 29-18 victory over the Washington Commanders on December 23, 2023. Despite a shaky start, including a fumble on the opening kickoff, the Eagles rallied to secure their playoff berth.
The win in Landover, Maryland, marks a significant achievement for the Eagles, making them the first team to win back-to-back NFC East titles since 2004. With this victory, the Eagles improve to 10-5 and have rebounded from a three-game losing streak with two straight wins.
Jalen Hurts was pivotal in the game’s outcome, completing 22 of 30 passes for 185 yards, two touchdowns, and no turnovers. His performance included a crucial 5-yard touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith and a 15-yard touchdown to Dallas Goedert, the latter coming during a dominant 17-play, 83-yard drive.
Saquon Barkley also shined, rushing for 132 yards on 21 carries and adding a 12-yard touchdown run that extended the Eagles’ lead. The game featured a chaotic atmosphere, highlighted by a late brawl following Barkley’s two-point conversion.
“The energy from the fans was incredible,” said Hurts post-game. “We knew we had to stay focused and keep pushing forward.”
The Commanders, now with a dismal 4-11 record, have lost nine of their last ten games and were eliminated from postseason contention prior to this matchup. Starting quarterback Marcus Mariota left the game in the third quarter with a hand injury, leading to Josh Johnson taking over.
In an unusual twist, the Eagles’ special teams struggled as kicker Jake Elliott missed three field goals in the first half, an uncharacteristic performance for the reliable kicker. Elliott’s attempts went wide left from 43 and 52 yards, though one miss was negated by a penalty.
Next, the Eagles will face the Buffalo Bills on December 28, 2023, in a highly anticipated matchup, while the Commanders will host the Dallas Cowboys this Thursday night. The contrasting fortunes of both teams highlight the competitive nature of the NFL, with the Eagles looking to solidify their playoff positioning as the season winds down.
Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts and excitement about the Eagles’ achievement on social media as the team aims for another Super Bowl run.
