In a highly anticipated matchup between division rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants took to the field on Sunday night with several key players sidelined due to injury. Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, wide receiver A.J. Brown, and running back Miles Sanders were among those declared inactive for the game.

Hurts’ Absence and Backup Controversy

Hurts’ absence due to a shoulder injury raised questions about the Eagles’ quarterback situation. Backup quarterback Gardner Minshew started in Hurts’ place, but his performance was lackluster, throwing for only 222 yards and an interception. The Giants’ defense was able to pressure Minshew throughout the game, sacking him five times.

The Eagles’ decision to bench Hurts has sparked controversy among fans and analysts. Some believe that the team should have played Hurts despite his injury, while others argue that the coaching staff made the right decision to rest him and protect his long-term health.

Key Eagles Offensive Players Out

In addition to Hurts, the Eagles were also without their top two wide receivers, A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Brown was ruled out due to an ankle injury, while Smith missed the game with a groin injury. The absence of these playmakers significantly impacted the Eagles’ passing offense, as Minshew struggled to connect with his receivers.

The Eagles’ running game was also weakened by the absence of Sanders. The team’s leading rusher was out with a hamstring injury, leaving Boston Scott and Kenneth Gainwell as the primary ball carriers. However, the Giants’ defense limited Scott and Gainwell to a combined 65 rushing yards.

Johnson Misses $250K Bonus Opportunity

Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney was also inactive for the game due to a hamstring injury. Toney’s absence was particularly costly, as he was within striking distance of a $250,000 bonus for reaching 1,000 receiving yards on the season. Toney finished the season with 985 receiving yards.

The Giants’ offense struggled in Toney’s absence, failing to score a touchdown until the fourth quarter. Daniel Jones threw for only 169 yards and an interception, while Saquon Barkley was held to 68 rushing yards. The Giants’ offensive line was also unable to protect Jones, allowing him to be sacked six times.

Conclusion

The Eagles vs. Giants game was a tale of two teams missing key players due to injury. The Eagles’ offense was unable to function without Hurts and their top receivers, while the Giants’ offense suffered without Toney. Both teams will look to get healthy and bounce back in the playoffs.

The absences of Hurts, Brown, Sanders, and Toney highlight the importance of depth and versatility in the NFL. With injuries being a constant threat, teams need to be prepared to adjust and adapt when their key players go down.