The Washington Commanders vs Philadelphia Eagles clash delivered fireworks, heart-stopping plays, and a masterclass in quarterback duels. If you love hard-hitting defense, explosive offense, and game-changing moments, this NFC East rivalry had it all. Let’s dive deep into the player stats, break down the key performances, and analyze what this means for the division race.
Quarterback Showdown: Hurts vs. Howell
Jalen Hurts (Eagles) – The Dual-Threat Maestro
Hurts reminded everyone why he’s an MVP contender, slicing through Washington’s defense with precision. His stat line:
- Passing: 29/39, 319 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
- Rushing: 9 carries, 34 yards, 1 TD
Hurts was surgical on third downs, connecting with A.J. Brown (8 rec, 130 yards) and DeVonta Smith (6 rec, 78 yards, 1 TD) for crucial conversions. His lone interception came on a tipped ball, but his ability to extend plays with his legs kept Washington’s defense guessing.
Sam Howell (Commanders) – The Gunslinger’s Grit
Howell showed flashes of brilliance but struggled under relentless Eagles pressure:
- Passing: 24/45, 290 yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs
- Rushing: 4 carries, 17 yards
Howell’s arm talent was evident—hitting Terry McLaurin (6 rec, 102 yards) on deep shots—but Philadelphia’s defense feasted on his mistakes. His three interceptions (two by Darius Slay) proved costly, though his 35-yard TD strike to Jahan Dotson kept Washington alive late.
Verdict: Hurts outdueled Howell with poise and playmaking, but Howell’s resilience suggests potential—if he cuts down turnovers.
Ground Game: Who Controlled the Trenches?
Eagles’ RB Committee
- D’Andre Swift: 16 carries, 57 yards, 1 TD
- Kenneth Gainwell: 7 carries, 38 yards
Philly’s O-line bullied Washington early, allowing Swift to punch in a goal-line TD. While not a dominant rushing day, the Eagles kept Washington honest, setting up Hurts’ play-action bombs.
Commanders’ Rushing Attack
- Brian Robinson Jr.: 14 carries, 45 yards
- Antonio Gibson: 5 carries, 22 yards
Washington’s run game never found rhythm, partly due to game script (playing from behind). Robinson’s physicality stood out, but Philly’s front seven (led by Fletcher Cox) clamped down.
Defensive Dominance: Sacks, Picks, and Game-Changing Plays
Eagles’ Defense – The Turnover Kings
- Darius Slay: 2 INTs, 3 PDs
- Haason Reddick: 2 sacks, 3 QB hits
- Fletcher Cox: 1 sack, 2 TFLs
Slay’s two picks swung momentum, while Reddick terrorized Howell off the edge. Philly’s defense bent but didn’t break, holding Washington to 4-of-12 on third downs.
Commanders’ Defense – Bright Spots in a Tough Loss
- Montez Sweat: 1.5 sacks, 4 QB pressures
- Kamren Curl: 9 tackles, 1 INT
Sweat was a menace, but Washington’s secondary struggled against Philly’s WRs. Curl’s INT on Hurts was a rare bright spot, but the lack of consistent pressure hurt them.
What Do These Stats Mean for the NFC East?
The Eagles’ win solidifies their grip on the division, while Washington’s QB turnovers highlight their biggest hurdle. If Howell cleans up his decisions, the Commanders can compete—but Philly’s balance makes them the team to beat.
FAQs
Which quarterback dominated in the Washington Commanders vs Philadelphia Eagles game?
Jalen Hurts outperformed Sam Howell, throwing for 319 yards and 2 TDs while adding a rushing score. Howell showed flashes but was hampered by three interceptions.
How can I interpret NFL player stat lines?
Key stats to watch:
- QBs: Completion %, TDs, INTs, passer rating
- RBs: Yards per carry, TDs, receptions
- WRs/TEs: Targets, catches, yards
- Defense: Sacks, INTs, tackles for loss
Where can I watch the full highlights of the Commanders vs Eagles game?
Check NFL’s official YouTube channel, ESPN, or the teams’ websites for full highlights and replays.