For the second week in a row, the Eagles overcame a double-digit second half deficit. After being down 20-6 at half time, the Eagles won 30-27 on Monday Night Football. The Eagles struggled in the redone early in the game, after three first half redzone trips resulted in only six points. However, in the second half the defense was able to force turnovers, and the offense began to click, and the Eagles were able to comeback.
Studs
Running back (offensive weapon) Darren Sproles
Without a doubt, Sproles deserves the game ball. The linebackers of the colts simply could not matchup with the speed and shiftiness of Sproles in space. On seven receptions, Sproles had 152 yards receiving, 148 of which came after the catch. Sproles dominated the game taking short pass for huge gains. Chip Kelly raved about the acquisition of Sproles over the off-season, and so far Sproles has lived up to the hype.
Tight end Zach Ertz
Ertz did not put up spectacular numbers with only 86 yards on four catches. However his ability to stretch the field vertically should not go unnoticed. Sproles big game may not have been possible without Ertz keeping the safeties honest. There has been much talk about the lack of a deep threat since the release of Desean Jackson, Ertz’s 23 yards per catch proves he can the teams deep threat.
Duds
Defensive tackle Cedric Thornton
Thornton was pushed around all game by the Colts’ offensive line. Additionally he missed several tackles.
Wide receiver Riley Cooper
Only recording one catch, Cooper could not get open versus the colts secondary.
Turning point
The Colts were up 27-20 and driving in the Eagles territory midway through the fourth quarter. Eagle’s safety Malcolm Jenkins picks off Andrew Luck, to swing the momentum of the game. Many thought that there should have been defensive pass interference called on the play. The interception led to the Eagles tying the game. If the penalty was called the outcome of the game would be different.
Five Awards from the Game
Old Man Award
Espn’s announcer Jon Gruden, who was calling the game, constantly described players as “ young”, making Gruden seem very old.
The not Alex henry Award
Eagle’s rookie kicker Cody Parkey nailed a game winning field goal as time expired. Fans are just happy Parkey replaced incumbent kicker Henry.
Unbalanced Award.
The Colt’s running game often went to an unbalanced line. Something that is not frequently done in the NFL, the unbalance line proved to be successful for the Colts.
The Michael Jackson Award
After an early tackle for loss, Eagles linebacker Mychal Kendricks showed off is Jackosnesque dance moves.
The Takeaway Award
With two more takeaways against the Colts, the Eagles lead the league with longest active streak of games with a takeaway with 14 straight games.