Home NFL Philadelphia Soars Into Divisional Round with Stifling Defense and Gritty Offense 22-10

Philadelphia Soars Into Divisional Round with Stifling Defense and Gritty Offense 22-10

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Courtesy Of The Philadelphia Eagles Communications

Lincoln Financial Field— In a dominant 22-10 playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night, Philadelphia Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert showcased unmatched determination, powering through defenders with three stiff arms on a memorable touchdown run. His effort embodied the grit and resilience that define this Eagles squad.

The victory also marked the return of quarterback Jalen Hurts, who threw two touchdown passes in his first game back after a three-week absence due to a late-season concussion. Hurts wasted no time, completing his first six passes and helping the Eagles take full advantage of their top-ranked defense to secure the wild-card win.

“It felt great to be back out there,” Hurts said. “It’s all about finding our rhythm and leaving it all on the field. That’s what this team is built for.”

Goedert’s Iconic Touchdown:

The game’s pivotal moment came in the third quarter when Hurts connected with Goedert for a 24-yard touchdown. Goedert fought off multiple defenders, delivering one of the most memorable plays in Eagles playoff history.

“That might be my favorite touchdown ever,” Goedert said. “I wasn’t going to be denied. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep this team moving forward.”

Eagles Defense Stifles Packers:

Philadelphia’s defense made an immediate impact, forcing a fumble on the opening kickoff, which led to an 11-yard touchdown pass from Hurts to Jahan Dotson just three plays later. The defense remained relentless throughout the game, intercepting Packers quarterback Jordan Love three times and holding Green Bay to just 10 points.

Cornerback Darius Slay and linebacker Zack Baun each recorded an interception, while Quinyon Mitchell sealed the victory with a late-game pick.

“Our defense made statement after statement,” Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said. “They were relentless tonight, and that gave us the edge we needed.”

Packers Struggle to Keep Up:

Quarterback Jordan Love, playing through a sore elbow, struggled to find his rhythm against Philadelphia’s swarming defense. He finished with 212 passing yards, three interceptions, and two sacks.

“They took away the run and forced us to make plays in the air,” Love said. “We didn’t execute the way we needed to.”

The lone bright spot for Green Bay came from running back Josh Jacobs, who rushed for 81 yards, including a powerful 31-yard run that set up the Packers’ only touchdown.

Barkley Shines in Postseason Debut:

In his first playoff appearance as an Eagle, Saquon Barkley made a significant impact, rushing for 119 yards. The former Giants star expressed his excitement at contributing to the team’s postseason success.

“Last year, I was sitting at home watching these games,” Barkley said. “To be out here now, helping this team win, it’s a dream come true.”

Hurts’ Resilient Return:

Hurts showed no signs of rust in his return, delivering key completions when it mattered most. Though he had a brief slump in the middle of the game, he finished strong, completing seven of his last eight passes, including the crucial touchdown to Goedert.

“Jalen is a winner,” Sirianni said. “He finds ways to get it done, and tonight was no different.”

Looking Ahead:

With the win, the Eagles advance to the divisional round, where they’ll face the winner of Monday night’s matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams.

Philadelphia fans at Lincoln Financial Field had plenty to celebrate, from the opening kickoff to the final whistle. As the Eagles continue their playoff journey, one thing is clear: this team is built to compete, and they’re not ready to go home yet.

“We’re moving on,” Barkley said. “And we’re bringing that same fight next week.”