The Eagles concluded their 2023 season with a disappointing 32-9 loss to the Buccaneers in the Super Wild Card Playoff at Tampa Bay. Facing challenges such as the absence of wide receiver A.J. Brown and defensive gaps, Philadelphia struggled, losing six of its last seven games. Here are key takeaways from the season finale:
- A critical two-possession sequence in the third quarter turned a close 16-9 game into a 25-9 deficit. Quarterback Jalen Hurts faced relentless pressure, resulting in an intentional grounding penalty for a safety, followed by a 56-yard touchdown pass by the Bucs.
- The Eagles’ offense struggled throughout the game, managing only one touchdown drive. Against a defense they previously exploited in Week 3, Philadelphia failed to convert on third downs, had limited rushing yards, and struggled to sustain offensive momentum.
- Despite early challenges, a 55-yard connection between Hurts and DeVonta Smith provided a spark for the Eagles. This led to a touchdown pass to tight end Dallas Goedert, but a failed two-point conversion kept them trailing 16-9.
- Tampa Bay dominated early, scoring on their first four possessions with a balanced attack. The Eagles’ defense had some stops but couldn’t prevent significant damage, allowing the Bucs to build a 16-3 lead by halftime.
- Unexpectedly, Tampa Bay’s David Moore emerged as a key threat, making impactful plays, including a 44-yard scoring play in the first quarter.
- The Eagles’ hoped-for fast start didn’t materialize, with the first quarter dominated by Tampa Bay’s offense. Moore and Bucs quarterback Baker Mayfield had a strong quarter, while the Eagles struggled to gain yards.
- Philadelphia twice attempted to convert fourth downs for more points, but both attempts failed, including a crucial fourth-and-5 in the fourth quarter.
- Baker Mayfield had a standout performance, throwing for 337 yards and 3 touchdowns, exploiting the Eagles’ defensive lapses. Missed tackles and defensive issues persisted, allowing Tampa Bay to score on six of their first nine possessions.
- In the last game of the season, Jalen Hurts experienced consistent pressure from the opposing blitz, completing 25 out of 35 passes for 250 yards and securing one touchdown. Philadelphia encountered difficulties in establishing a successful running game, recording only 41 yards on 15 carries.
- DeVonta Smith showcased his skills with 8 catches for 148 yards, but the overall offensive firepower fell short, highlighting the team’s need for multiple weapons, especially in a game where they trailed from the start.