Philly Leader

The Eagles returned for their second preseason game on Thursday night against the Patriots, securing a narrow victory with a final score of 14-13.

While several first-team players, including Bryce Huff, Devin White, and Zack Baun, started on defense, the offense did not feature its starters. Head Coach Nick Sirianni explained that extensive joint practice with the Patriots earlier in the week provided sufficient preparation for the offensive unit. Rookie wide receiver Johnny Wilson was absent due to being in concussion protocol.

Tyler Steen exited the game in the first quarter with an ankle injury and was subsequently ruled out for the remainder of the game. Wide receiver John Ross also left in the second half due to concussion protocol.

In the first quarter, Avonte Maddox intercepted Jacoby Brissett in the end zone with 7:16 remaining. This turnover led to Jake Elliott scoring a 42-yard field goal after several successful throws from Kenny Pickett. Tyler Steen's injury occurred later in this quarter, leading to Nick Gates replacing him.

During the second quarter, Joey Slye tied the game for New England with a 51-yard field goal. The Patriots then took a lead with a 4-yard touchdown run by Drake Maye just before halftime.

Tanner McKee began the second half as quarterback for Philadelphia and made significant plays including a 13-yard pass to E.J. Jenkins. However, another setback occurred when Ross went to be evaluated for a concussion.

In the third quarter, Nolan Smith recorded a sack on Maye which forced New England to punt. Will Grier replaced McKee briefly and managed an 8-yard rush converting a crucial third down.

The fourth quarter saw Grier leading another drive that ended with Elliott's second field goal of the night from 38 yards out. New England responded with Slye’s 45-yard field goal extending their lead. McKee returned and orchestrated an impressive drive culminating in Kendall Milton’s 1-yard touchdown run followed by Ainias Smith catching a two-point conversion giving Philadelphia their final lead.

Defensively, Thomas Booker sacked Joe Milton twice late in the game helping seal victory as Brandon Smith recovered a fumble caused by a bad snap from New England.

Key Stats:

Passing Leaders:

PHI: Tanner McKee - 15/19 for 140 yards (97.4 QB Rating)

NE: Drake Maye - 6/11 for 47 yards (65.3 QB Rating)

Rushing Leaders:

PHI: Tyrion Davis-Price - 28 yards on 4 carries (7 YPC)

NE: Rhamondre Stevenson - 18 yards on 6 carries (3 YPC)

Receiving Leaders:

PHI: Joseph Ngata - 5 catches for 88 yards

NE: Kayshon Boutte - 3 catches for 23 yards

Tackle Leaders:

PHI: Nakobe Dean - 5 tackles

NE: Raekwon McMillan - 4 tackles