Eagles sticking with Jalen Hurts as starter

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals during the second half at State Farm Stadium. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Eagles sticking with Jalen Hurts as starting QB vs. Cowboys

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 12/21/20

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson wasn't initially confident in starting Jalen Hurts, repeatedly saying that Carson Wentz would remain the team's starting quarterback. His mindset changed after a 30-16 loss to the Green Bay Packers two weeks ago.

Wentz was hideous against the Packers, throwing for just 79 yards before Hurts replaced him. The rookie quarterback was eventually named Philly's starter against the New Orleans Saints, and his impressive debut resulted in Pederson opting to start him against the Arizona Cardinals, too.

Hurts helped the Eagles defeat the Saints 24-21 before falling to the Cardinals 33-26 over the weekend in a tightly contested game. The 22-year-old balled out in his second career start, completing 24-of-44 passes for 338 yards and three touchdowns while adding 63 yards and a score on the ground.

His latest performance helped him secure the starting job for the Eagles' upcoming matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.

Jalen Hurts will start again Sunday vs. Cowboys, per HC Doug Pederson.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 21, 2020

Wentz likely won't be happy with Pederson's decision to bench him for the third straight week. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Sunday the 27-year-old will look to move on from the franchise if Hurts continues to be Philly's starter.

Pederson's decision to bench Wentz was a smart move, though. The North Dakota State product has been atrocious this season, completing just 57.4 percent of his passes for 2,620 yards and 16 touchdowns against an NFL-leading 15 interceptions in 12 starts. He also leads the league in sacks and fumbles.

With Hurts at quarterback, the Eagles have a much higher probability of winning games. If he has another solid showing against the Cowboys, the Eagles might be ready to usher in a new era of football in Philly.

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