Dallas Cowboys Crush Philly 41-21: Hurts, Donut?
By Reid Hanson
A title appropriate for both my age and maturity, the Dallas Cowboys laid some “Hurts” on the Philadelphia Eagles Monday night. Jalen Hurts, one of the most celebrated rising stars in the NFL this season, got a reality check in Dallas’ home opener.
Jalen Hurts entered Monday night’s match-up rated as Pro Football Focus’ second rated QB this season. The young signal caller was able to build on last season and play to his strengths early this year. Utilizing his running ability and improvisation skills, Hurts has been able to be one of the most efficient quarterbacks in the NFL.
The Dallas Cowboys stopped Jalen Hurts and the Eagles and laid claim to the NFC East quite easily.
Entering the game I highlighted Hurts’ proficiency both against the blitz and as a runner on called drop-backs. To expand and explain: Hurts isn’t inherently a great runner. Yes, he rushed for over 8 yards/carry the first two weeks of the season, but it wasn’t accomplished on intended runs.
Rather, most of Hurts’ success came on drop-backs that turned into scrambles and became runs. It wasn’t as a pure runner like Lamer Jackson or a third down passing assassin like A-A-Ron Rodgers. He’s an opportunist. And with the exception of a brief stint in the third quarter, Dallas largely corralled that.
In all fairness, Jalen Hurts is a good player and a great leader. He’s the last person to vilify on the Eagles. But as the QB1, and therefore the most important element of the offense, we obviously keep our attention focused on him.
Entering this game, Jalen Hurts has been brilliant. He was PFF’s No. 3 rated passer against the blitz and No. 2 rated QB overall. The Texas kid has been easy to like and hard to stop. But Dallas played it smart and rode their offense.
Monday night’s contest was a matter of one team being good and one team being not-so-good. The Dallas Cowboys are loaded (even if they are decimated, currently) and essentially in a different league than the rest of the NFC East. The fact they didn’t enter the season as clear favorites to all, is an indictment on the national media. A mistake by many, the Dallas Cowboys are currently bringing to light this season.
Jalen Hurts isn’t done. He’s a good player who should be QB1 for the Eagles for a while. He’s NOT someone you can ever take for granted. But the Dallas Cowboys cracked the code the code and there’s no reason to think much will change this season.
The Cowboys should dare Jalen Hurts to pass. light. Must Read
The Dallas Cowboys easily stopped Jalen Hurts and the Eagles and now hold a strong position heading into the second month of the season.
- Published on 09/28/2021 at 03:32 AM
- Last updated at 09/28/2021 at 03:52 AM