3 Overreactions to Eagles' Offensive Struggles: Time to Panic?

Understanding the Eagles' Offensive Struggles

The Philadelphia Eagles, a team that captured the Super Bowl title last season, are currently facing some challenges on offense. Their passing game is ranked 31st in the NFL, averaging just 126.5 yards per game. While the team is middle of the pack in scoring, there's a growing concern about their offensive performance.

Saquon Barkley, who had an impressive 2,005 yards rushing last season, is only ranked ninth in the NFL in rushing with 148 yards through two games. He's averaging just 3.7 yards per carry. Jalen Hurts, the quarterback, has attempted only three passes beyond 10 air yards. A.J. Brown has 35 yards receiving, total, through two games.

Despite these numbers, the Eagles are 2-0 heading into their game against the Los Angeles Rams, who are also 2-0, on Sept. 21. This success has led to discussions about the team's offensive strategy and whether it's time to panic.

The Importance of Patience and Synchronization

Jalen Hurts emphasizes the importance of patience and synchronization on the field. He acknowledges his role in the team's performance and takes accountability for the current state of the passing game. "I take a lot of accountability for a lot of it, and just how we go out there because that’s my job," he said.

Eagles coach Nick Sirianni also advocates for patience, stating that the goal is to build throughout the season. However, he believes in the potential for explosive plays, which have been lacking so far. "We're working like crazy to make sure that we can be efficient and be explosive," he added.

Three Overreactions to the Eagles' Slow Start

There are several overreactions to the Eagles' slow start on offense this season, and fans are wondering if it's time to panic:

Is Offensive Coordinator Kevin Patullo Overmatched?

Kevin Patullo is the Eagles' fourth offensive coordinator in five seasons. He has never been an OC before this season. The last time Sirianni promoted an assistant to offensive coordinator, it was a disaster with Brian Johnson running the offense in 2023. However, the Eagles insist this is different. Patullo has been with Sirianni since 2018 and has served as passing game coordinator since 2021.

Patullo believes the chances for explosive plays haven't been there, and he prefers to err on the side of caution rather than forcing deep passes. "You don't ever want to put the quarterback in harm's way," he said. The Eagles haven't had any turnovers this season, which counts for something.

Why Can't Saquon Barkley Break Free?

Opponents are scheming to stop Saquon Barkley first, and the Rams are the perfect litmus test for this. Last season, in two games against the Rams, Barkley had 255 and 205 yards rushing. This season, his longest run has gone for 16 yards. Eagles center Cam Jurgens admitted that the Rams would likely change their defensive game plan.

Patullo noted that while the Eagles haven't had the big runs, they've been moving in the right direction. Barkley had 88 yards on 22 carries against the Chiefs, and he was more effective in the second half, indicating progress.

Why Isn't Jalen Hurts Throwing Downfield?

Last season, when opponents clamped down on Barkley, Hurts beat them with the deep ball to Brown and DeVonta Smith. That happened in the Super Bowl and against the Pittsburgh Steelers last December. However, Hurts has thrown for 152 yards in the Eagles' opener against the Cowboys and just 101 against the Chiefs. Brown's longest reception this season has gone for 8 yards, and Smith has just 69 yards receiving in two games.

Hurts remains confident that the team will find its rhythm. "It takes having your priorities in order," he said. "You make it about us, and what we do, and how we execute."

Looking Ahead

As the Eagles prepare for their game against the Rams, they will focus on controlling the ball and not turning it over. If the Rams aren't giving the Eagles the explosive plays, then Hurts said the Eagles have to stay within themselves and execute their game plan. For many fans, the sooner the better.