Hurts irritated by Pederson's decision to bench him in loss

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has issues with head coach Doug Pederson. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Jalen Hurts irritated by Doug Pederson's decision to bench him in loss to WFT

By Erin Walsh | Last updated Jan 4, 2021 10:01 AM ET

Doug Pederson blew the Philadelphia Eagles' opportunity to win their final game of the season by deciding to bench Jalen Hurts for Nate Sudfeld on Sunday night against the Washington Football Team.

The Eagles lost to Washington 20-14 as Pederson, Hurts and Carson Wentz watched on from the sideline. A frustrated Hurts said after the game that he wanted to play to win, but stopped himself before criticizing Pederson for benching him.

Jalen Hurts asked if he was upset about getting pulled: “As a competitor, I play to win. Just gotta trust Coach with that.”
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 4, 2021

Hurts played poorly against Washington, completing 7-of-20 passes for 72 yards and one interception. He, at least, kept Philadelphia in the game with two rushing scores before being benched. Sudfeld, meanwhile, played worse, throwing for just 32 yards and a pick while minimizing the team's rushing attack.

Pederson and the Eagles have a lot to figure out this offseason, particularly at quarterback. Wentz reportedly wants out of Philly, which would leave the team with Hurts as its starter for 2021. The Alabama and Oklahoma product has shown flashes of greatness, but he hasn't proven that he can be the Eagles quarterback of the future.

Erin Walsh

Erin Walsh is a Boston sports fan through and through. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Bridgewater State University and currently is in pursuit of her Master's Degree in Journalism from Northeastern University. Follow her on Twitter @ewalsh90

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