It appeared through three quarters that it was another ugly Eagles performance, with the Chargers marching into the end zone courtesy of an Omari Hampton four-yard touchdown reception from Justin Herbert and subsequent five Jalen Hurts turnovers.
In between all of those events, the Eagles and Chargers on Monday night football was like a game mixed together in that fruit juicer that DeVonta Smith is so fond of.
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The Eagles squandered big-play opportunities and quality offensive possessions featuring AJ Brown, Saquon Barkley, and Dallas Goedert, but did come within 13–9 through three quarters.As the fourth quarter began , the Eagles ran a hurry-up and a fake Tush Push to take the lead 16–13. Following another Hurts interception, the Eagles’ defense responded once again, but the Chargers ultimately tied the game at 16–16. With less than three minutes left in the game up 16–13 — Jalen Hurt lofted a perfect pass to AJ Brown at the back of the end zone that was dropped.
Los Angeles then tied the game at the end of the 4th quarter. Philadelphia also squandered a near-complete defensive performance featuring seven sacks on Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert and three takeaways of their own. Then, in overtime , the Chargers took the ball first and kicked a go-ahead field goal.
The Eagles responded by connecting on big plays on the next drive, featuring connections from Hurts to Devonta Smith, Dallas Goedert, and AJ Brown. On 1st and 10 inside the Chargers 20 — Hurts faked a handoff and was intercepted at the one-yard line by Los Angeles Safety Tony Jefferson.
Philadelphia’s organized sports — dating as far back as our own Civil War — have frequently been intertwined with American history.
Our first professional ballpark (Recreation Field) was an outpost for Union Cavalry in the 1860s.
On March 11th of 2020 , the Sixers beat the Pistons at the Wells Fargo Center 124–106, including a 30-point, 14-rebound performance by Joel Embiid just hours before Philly joined the rest of the world in a pandemic shutdown that would bring Philadelphia sports to a halt for the first time since those same 1860s.
And on the day that an event propelled our nation into the Second World War eighty-four years ago , it was no different.
On December 7th, 1941, the Eagles were in Washington for a Divisional Game at Griffith Stadium in front of over 27,000 fans. Washington was 5–5 coming into the game — the Eagles were 2–7.
On this day, it actually wasn’t the sequence of football events themselves during the last regular season game of 1941 that was so memorable. In fact, it’s what happened off the field that made this game so forgettable. During the first quarter, the stadium announcer began paging official Washington personnel to return to their offices. An ominous feeling spread across the stands. Pearl Harbor had been attacked , and America’s involvement in World War II would soon follow.
Credit: WikiCommons
World War II was a historic event for both our Eagles and for our nation. After winning seven games in both 1944 and 1945, the Eagles were ready to make a run for the Championship in 1947. After beating the Steelers in the playoffs, the Eagles rallied against the Chicago Cardinals but came up just short, losing 28–21. The following year — in a Philadelphia nor’easter — the Eagles would beat those Chicago Cardinals 7–0 to win their first NFL Championship. They would repeat in Los Angeles the following year, in 1949.
That night, after the 20–14 win for the home team, Washington players marched in front of the Japanese Embassy in DC. America would remember December 7th, 1941, forever.
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni speaks with Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson after a game at Lincoln Financial Field. (Eric Hartline/Imagn Images)
After the game, though, the party was on in the locker room, and first-year head coach Ben Johnson found himself right in the thick of it, partying shirtless and leading a chant.
“Good, better, best. Never let it rest ’til your good gets better and your better gets best,” Bears players and Johnson shouted after the head coach flexed his muscles.
Johnson’s exuberance bubbled over in the locker room — though there was an apparent method to his toplessness. The Wieners Circle, a Chicago hot dog stand, offered free hot dogs if Johnson took off his shirt after any victory this season.
“These guys just feel pretty good about what they just did,” Johnson said before video of his celebration emerged. “It was hard to go on the road and beat a good team like that.”
Chicago Bears running back D’Andre Swift carries the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter of a game at Lincoln Financial Field. (Eric Hartline/Imagn Images)
Last season, the Bears’ Thanksgiving loss at Detroit led to the firing of coach Matt Eberflus and was their sixth straight of what ballooned into a 10-game losing streak. A year later, the Bears bullied Philadelphia’s defensive line for a relatively easy win.
“They have a lot of belief in what we’re doing. They have a lot of belief in themselves,” Johnson said. “They have a lot of belief in this coaching staff. And so that confidence just starts to develop and continues to bubble over.”
Members of the Chicago Bears celebrate after an interception against the Philadelphia Eagles with teammates during the third quarter of a game at Lincoln Financial Field. (Bill Streicher/Imagn Images)
The Bears, winners of five straight, head to Lambeau Field to face the Green Bay Packers, while the Eagles will look to get back on track in a Monday night contest in Los Angeles against the Chargers on Dec. 8.
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The Philadelphia Eagles find themselves in a precarious position as late November 2025 brings a short week and a long injury list.
Following a frustrating collapse against Dallas, the team must quickly regroup for a high-stakes Black Friday matchup against the Chicago Bears. The roster is dealing with significant attrition, particularly in the defensive backfield, which could force defensive coordinator Vic Fangio to get creative.
Injuries are often the great equalizer in late-season football, and this week is no exception. When looking at the NFL odds, the availability of key starters shifts the conversation from simple talent comparisons to questions of depth and scheme. Understanding who suits up provides a clearer picture of the challenge ahead without needing to focus on the lines themselves. The reality is that Philadelphia must navigate these absences to secure a vital win.
The coaching staff faces a difficult task in shuffling the lineup. With playoff positioning on the line, the “next man up” mentality will be tested.
Below is a detailed look at the health of the roster and what fans can expect on Friday.
Major Blow to the Secondary
The most significant news involves rookie safety Andrew Mukuba. Mukuba is officially out for Week 13 after suffering an ankle fracture against the Cowboys. The promising defender is expected to miss roughly a month, with a potential return targeted for Week 16. His absence creates a void in the secondary that has been a bright spot for much of the season.
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Compounding the issue is the status of safety Reed Blankenship. He is listed as questionable with a thigh injury. However, current reports suggest optimism regarding his availability, and he is expected to play against Chicago. If he can go, it stabilizes a unit that cannot afford to lose two starters simultaneously.
Cornerback depth remains another area of concern. Adoree’ Jackson is questionable as he undergoes concussion evaluation. If Jackson cannot clear the league protocol in time for the short turnaround, the defense will need to rely heavily on its reserve corners to slow down the Bears’ passing attack.
Offensive Line and Skill Positions
The injury bug has not spared the offense. Offensive tackle Lane Johnson is questionable due to a foot injury. Johnson is the anchor of the offensive line, and his status is paramount for protecting the quarterback and establishing the run game. Any limitations he faces would force quick adjustments to the protection schemes.
In the receiving room, Xavier Gipson is questionable with a shoulder issue. While not a primary target, his speed offers a tactical advantage that the offense misses when he is sidelined. His potential absence would limit the gadget plays and deep threats available in the playbook.
Reserve Updates and Outlook
Several players remain unavailable as they work through long-term recovery. Myles Hinton stays on injured reserve with a back injury, while Willie Lampkin is out with a knee problem. Both are expected to return later in the year, providing hope for reinforcements down the stretch, but they offer no immediate relief for this week.
Key Injury Statuses for Week 13:
Andrew Mukuba (Safety): Out with an ankle fracture; return likely Week 16
Reed Blankenship (Safety): Questionable (thigh); expected to play
Lane Johnson (OT): Questionable (foot)
Adoree’ Jackson (CB): Questionable (concussion protocol)
Xavier Gipson (WR): Questionable (shoulder)
The Eagles are bruised but not broken. The short week offers little time for recovery, meaning the training staff will be working overtime up until kickoff.
For the fans, the focus remains on how the coaching staff adjusts to these setbacks.
The Eagles are one of the most electric teams to watch in the NFL , and on Friday, in front of a Lincoln Financial Field crowd encouraged to dress in honor of Philadelphia’s alternate uniforms of black helmets, pants, and jerseys , the Eagles will honor Malcolm Jenkins and Bucko Kilroy by inducting them into the Eagles Hall of Fame.
Malcolm Jenkins
Credit: Philadelphia Eagles-Facebook
The Eagles have had some great safeties over the decades. Brian Dawkins pulverized opposing platers in the early 2000s. Andre Waters and Wes Hopkins flattened anyone daring to come across the middle in the early 1990s.
Bill Bradley was one of the few bright spots for the franchise in the early 1970s. And Andrew Mukuba and Reed Blankenship are well on their way to make a significant impact of their own during the best time in the long history of the Eagles.
Malcolm Jenkins is at the top of that list as well.
When he arrived in Philadelphia in 2014 during the Chip Kelly Era , he didn’t just bring hard hits. Malcolm Jenkins was a leader. The culmination of his efforts as a player and mentor was a 2018 Super Bowl Championship in which he pancaked New England Patriots receiver Brandin Cooks, knocking him out of the game.
Bucko Kilroy
Bucko Kilroy became an Eagle in a period when the franchise was anything but stellar. The Eagles had become so bad that the first-ever franchise quarterback actually made a career move, becoming an FBI field agent rather than returning to compete with the Eagles. The team even lost their first ever game to New York at the Polo Grounds 56–0.
Bucko was born here (Port Richmond) and even attended St. Anne’s Grade School and eventually Northeast Catholic High School. When he joined the Eagles as an UDFA in 1945, Kilroy entered the NFL the very same year that Pittsburgh and Philadelphia joined forces due to the war effort to play one season as the Steagles.
Bucko Kilroy would play over a decade in Philadelphia — and even set an NFL record with one hundred and forty-three consecutive games. Behind his Pro Bowl play was fellow Hall of Famer and running back Steve Van Buren, who ran to a total of 7 NFL rushing titles. Between 1953 and 1955, Kilroy was a Pro Bowler each year.
So, when it comes to assembling my Eagles Dream Team?
Give me Jenkins and Kilroy not only on this day, but also on all days. On any day.
The Kansas City Chiefs saved their season. The Philadelphia Eagles gave critics more fuel. The Los Angeles Rams made a dominant statement.
There were more questions than answers Sunday in the NFL.
Patrick Mahomes did just enough to rally the Chiefs to a 23-20 overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Kansas City’s dominant defense gave him the opportunity.
Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s unit forced the Colts to go three-and-out on their final four possessions. The Chiefs shut down the NFL’s leading rusher, holding Jonathan Taylor to 58 yards on 16 carries. Colts coach Shane Steichen inexplicably gave Taylor the ball only once on the last three drives of regulation.
Mahomes threw for 352 yards but didn’t have any touchdowns. He looked skittish at times under pressure, rushing his reads and hurrying his passes.
The Chiefs (6-5) couldn’t afford another loss as they fight to make the playoffs after winning nine straight AFC West titles, reaching eight consecutive conference championship games and winning three Super Bowls.
They’ve got a long way to go and a tough game at Dallas (5-5-1) coming up on Thanksgiving Day. Mahomes and the offense need to get in sync for Kansas City to have a shot.
“We’re still not where we want to be at but this was big,” Mahomes said. “Getting that win against a really good football team and kind of proving it to (ourselves) that we can play this kind of football game where it’s not always pretty. I think now we just have to build off that momentum. It’s going to be a short week. We’re playing a good team in the Cowboys, and they can score some points and they have a lot of great players. It’s about rebounding fast, trying to be better, even better this next week going into a big environment, big game and trying to get that win.”
The Colts (8-3) have gone from 7-1 to a team that is going to have to battle to win the AFC South. They’ll face division rivals Jacksonville (7-4) and Houston (6-5) four times over the remaining six games. Their other two opponents are Seattle (8-3) and San Francisco (7-4).
Steichen trusted Daniel Jones to win the game in Kansas City, electing to put the ball in his hands down the stretch instead of giving it to Taylor to protect a lead. Jones couldn’t deliver. He was 3 for 9 for 17 yards on the final four possessions.
“I felt there was a lot of stuff that I wanted to get called that I felt good about in the pass game and we just weren’t efficient doing it and it starts with me,” Steichen said.
Eagles collapse
The reigning Super Bowl champions built a 21-0 lead in Dallas and looked like they were on their way to snapping Dak Prescott’s 18-game winning streak at home against NFC East opponents.
Jalen Hurts was connecting with A.J. Brown and it seemed Philadelphia would quiet some of the drama surrounding the two superstars.
But the offense regressed, giving Prescott and the Cowboys an opportunity to come back and win 24-21.
The Eagles (8-3) have a comfortable lead over Dallas (5-5-1) and are in position to become the first repeat champion in the division in two decades. But Philadelphia fell behind the Rams (9-2) in the race for the No. 1 seed.
A sluggish offense isn’t playing up to its standard. Saquon Barkley ran for only 22 yards on 10 carries, and the passing attack just hasn’t found its rhythm.
Rams dominate
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were no match for Matthew Stafford and the Rams.
Stafford continued his MVP-caliber campaign with another stellar performance against an overmatched defense and Los Angeles cruised to a 34-7 victory over Tampa Bay.
The 37-year-old Stafford has thrown 30 touchdown passes and only two interceptions this season.
“I got great teammates. I get to throw to a bunch of great players, stand behind a good o-line and watch these guys hunt on defense,” Stafford said.
That defense overwhelmed the Buccaneers, knocking Baker Mayfield out of the game.
Jared Verse and Kobie Turner each had two sacks and Los Angeles is the team to beat in the NFC.
First to 10
Drake Maye and the New England Patriots are the first team to reach 10 wins this season after holding on for a 26-20 victory in Cincinnati.
The Patriots have a 2 1/2-game lead over Buffalo (7-4) in the AFC East with eight of their wins coming against teams that have a losing record.
With three of their last five games against teams that are currently 8-26 combined, New England is in position to win its first division title since Tom Brady left and has an inside track to earning the No. 1 seed in the AFC.
But the Patriots still have a lot to prove, especially against more experienced playoff teams.
And once again — across America’s nearly 136 collegiate programs — talent from the Philly region can be felt from coast to coast.
At the head of that list are the Villanova Wildcats (9–2), who learned on Sunday afternoon that they would be the #12 seed in the Football Championship Subdivision and would face Harvard in the first round.
For Villanova , it’s another chance to highlight a great rushing attack.
Credit: Villanova Football-Twitter/X
Villanova’s football program has had plenty of great talent over the years. Perhaps it’s finest — running back Brian Westbrook — whose career as an all-purpose player led him to a 1,000-yard rushing and receiving year in the same season (the first player in college to do so), the Walter Payton Award, and FCS Player of the Year. His contributions would land him in the Villanova Hall of Fame before playing six seasons with the Eagles.
Former Villanova running back Kevin Monangai earned All-CAA Honors while a Wildcat and went on to play in the NFL for the Eagles and the Vikings. In the 1960s — running back Billy Joe was the only Villanova athlete ever inducted into the Varsity Club Hall of Fame for two sports — and would go on to play professionally for the Miami Dolphins, Denver Broncos, Buffalo Bills, and was a World Champion with the New York Jets.
Now the Villanova Wildcats have a sophomore running back named David Avit. And they almost lost him.
After a freshman season with 923 yards rushing and nine touchdowns, Avit has followed up so far this year by breaking out against Monmouth with 135 yards. He followed up that performance with 102 yards against the University of New Hampshire and 63 yards against Elon.
But that isn’t all of the talent. In the season finale against Scared Heart on Saturday, that included a mesmerizing performance on the ground from Ja’briel Mace, including 165 yards and two scores on nine carries, including an 80-yard scamper and a receiving touchdown in the 34–10 win.
A week before, in an overtime win against Stony Brook with David Avit out due to a knee injury , Isaiah Ragland ran the ball for nearly 100 yards.
For Villanova , late-season playoff football is bolstered by an elite running game.
Then the second half happened like chapters three and four in Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight.
In other words , downhill really, really fast.
Thirty years after a Dallas Cowboys Dynasty dominated the NFL, the Eagles were in position to take one step closer to establishing their own with a complete game of their own on Sunday. Three weeks after Jerry Jones made certain that Philadelphia could not obtain Micah Parsons during a trade to Green Bay , it didn’t seem to matter at all, at least not during the 1st two quarters.
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The Eagles’ 2025 season woes didn’t seem to follow them on the fight to Texas at all as the Eagles jumped out to a 21–0 advantage at AT&T Stadium as Philadelphia opened the scoring with a sixteen-yard connection from Jalen Hurts to A.J. Brown. A healthy dose of Hurts to Brown continued as Jalen Hurts ran for two additional scores — one after a long drive directly preceding a Turbin fumble. That would be the end of the Eagles’ scoring.
The rest of the game would see the Eagles turn the football over twice, amassing ninety-six yards in penalties as the Dallas defense continued to pick away at the Eagles’ defense , tying the game at 21, thanks to 354 yards passing from Dak Prescott, and finally leading to a 42-yard Brandon Aubrey Field Goal.
The only saving grace — the Eagles play again against Chicago in five days.
Quarterback Dak Prescott completed 23 of 36 passes for 354 yards and two touchdowns with an interception and rushed for another score. In the process, he broke Tony Romo’s franchise career passing yardage record.
Here’s everything he said to the media after the game:
On the comeback win
“It was needed. Never blinked, never had any doubts and 1000% believed from the beginning. There were times when I was telling the guys to believe and then there was a moment in the fourth quarter where Book [guard Tyler Booker] was like, ‘Believe,’ and I go, ‘I know.’ We’re done with the believing, we believed long enough and got ourselves back in this game, and now you have to know. That’s just a testimony to this brotherhood, sticking together. Going down 21 to the defending national Super Bowl champs in a division game is tough. I’m sure there were fans thinking this game was over, and [the Eagles] were going to run off. Defense, I can’t give them enough credit. We wouldn’t have won this game without the opportunities they gave us over and over again. It was awesome moments when they would get a stop or something would happen. Whether it was Quinnen [Williams] or Donovan [Ezeiruaku] or one of those guys telling me, ‘We got you.’ And then when they did stop them, they’d tell you, ‘We told you.’ It was just a continuation of what we did last week and just sticking together. Like I said, it’s about the brotherhood. Once again, we’re always going to do it for Marshawn Kneeland, and he was felt tonight. I’m sure he was right there playing alongside with us.”
On the team celebration and dancing in the locker room following the game
“I think I missed most of it. I was doing an interview out there with GP [George Pickens]. When I got in there, the dancing was fading off. Honestly, I had a headache. I dapped up my people and gave them love. I know it was electric in there.”
On if the win can carry over to the next game
”For sure. I think how you win is just as important as the result, but then again [that] points to how you win a game like this being down 21-0. There’s going to be moments when you’re down a touchdown or maybe two touchdowns, and that’s not going to be the last time this season. When you have a game like this, talking about the belief and the knowing. That’s what allows these guys in the locker room to do is believe we’re going to come back or know that we have the team, the brotherhood, the connection to do just that. I was just talking to [public relations manager Dave Abbruzese] walking in here that I love being down. I don’t know why and couldn’t tell you. Trust me, it’s fun when you’re up, you can laugh and joke, but when you’re down, it requires such a unique place that you have to get to in resilience, focus, and taking it one play at a time. Just trying to lead the other guys and getting them to do the same. When they do and you end up winning a game like this, this can be huge for us moving forward. As we’ve talked about all week, getting on a run, this is a hell of a way to get No. 2. We have to enjoy tonight and that’s it and be ready for Thursday.”
“They did the whole deal during the timeout break and some of the guys were giving congratulations, and I’m like ‘No. Whatever. We’ll celebrate this after the win. I don’t want to hear anything about that right now.’ Now I can enjoy that a little bit, reflect, smile and laugh. I can tell you that initially when I looked up there and saw that, there was a little emotion that hit me that I damn sure wasn’t ready for and didn’t know that would come. That’s why I countered that with anger. [I’m] blessed and thankful. It’s the result of a lot of hard work, good people around me, great teammates that care, and we’re going to keep going.”
On his touchdown run
”It was a play that is particularly drawn up to beat a man [coverage] or a zone, but you want it for a man. You bring the motion for an indicator, and I realized that it wasn’t man and I’m going to have to take a drop and allow for the play to develop. I did that and had a rush up the edge, and I just got out. When I did, Ferg [Jake Ferguson] did a great job at realizing that he had a guy on him, and he wasn’t going to get the ball. [He] turned and blocked him and allowed me to be one-on-one with the guy. I didn’t want to get hit in the knees, so I jumped and got a good roll. After that, it was just electric. The love and the energy from the teammates and the sideline. At that moment, I knew the game was going to be ours.”
On if wide receiver George Pickens has reached a level that exceeds his expectations
“It’s hard for me to say exceeds my expectations. My expectations for him are limitless, and he’ll tell you that he’s not from here. I’m sure you have all read his article in The Players’ Tribune. He’s not from here, he’s not from this planet and so, I’m not going to put limitations on him. He went out there and did what he’s done in games when he has that opportunity, in practice as well. The guy loves the game. He stays focused. Just the communication, as I’ve said before, to other guys in the huddle about staying focused and keep doing what you’re doing. We lucked up with getting a guy like that. We have to make sure that we can keep him here. He’s a hell of a player turning into a leader, and he’s special.”
On what his message at halftime to the team was
“I was just talking on what I felt at that time and the emotions. I couldn’t even you exactly what I said. I’m sure I was just saying something on the fact that we had just got that touchdown. If we don’t have that touchdown before halftime, that energy and the confidence that I and the other guys are speaking with isn’t quite there. But we did that and realized that all those other possessions, we just hurt ourselves. Turnover in the red zone, from me and the interception, the fumble, and the plus-territory, we were only hurting ourselves. That when I was like, let’s stop shooting ourselves in the foot. We gave them a 21-point lead, but we knew we had the upper hand. It was about just sticking together; it’s all about brotherhood and a lot of that type of stuff. You could tell it was resonating and the guys were feeling it. I know the defense had their own thing going, and I heard them. It gives you confidence on our side of the ball, and we went out there and did it.”
On making a push for the end of the season
“Just take it one play at a time. We have to find that unique place that I was talking about being down. We’ve had it almost going with every game with that mindset. It’s not one game at a time. We have to win every game. With that being said, you can only do that by winning every play and giving it your best every play. When you do that, can stay focused and finish with elite execution, you’re going to feel confident and good about what you’ve done. We just have to find that, and it really starts at practice and at these walkthroughs in the next couple of days getting ready for Kansas City. Tons of confidence in this group and team. It starts with our defense. They’re the reason we were able to come back in this game and have a chance to win it. We have to stop shooting ourselves in the foot, and this game could’ve been completely different.”
On what his message was to wide receiver CeeDee Lamb about his resiliency
“He’s a guy that expects to make a lot of plays. I’ve had games and felt the exact same way. For me, it’s about don’t press. Let’s not ride the highs and the lows. Even if you’ve had a bad play or whatever, let it go. You’re a hell of a player, and you know it. Like you said, he made great plays and had that big catch at the end and got the PI that would’ve been a touchdown right after that. When you press, I’ve seen CeeDee do it, you’re not going to get the best version of yourself. I’m the same way. When I can tell that he’s getting into that position, it’s just about talking to him. He did a good job of responding and just staying with it and made the plays that he needed to make for us to ultimately win this game. He’s a hell of a player, and he’s going to get frustrated when he’s not making the plays that he expects to make, but he will make those. He had some adversity tonight. We’ve seen it before and the way that he responds. I look forward to him responding.”
On the point in the game when belief changed to know
“I think that conversation happened after that first turnover. Honestly, the drive that we ended up not scoring on, down in the red zone. I think it was the beginning of that that I told them. He was telling the guys in the huddle, ‘Believe. Believe.’ And I just said, ‘Forget that at that point. I know.’ And sure, words of confidence and emotions. I said, ‘I’ve been there. I’ve done this. We’re fine. We’re right where we need to be. Focus on each and every play and execute.’ Sure, we didn’t on that drive, but defense or special teams went and made a play and we’re able to end up doing that.”
“We tried to motion CeeDee in. Man or zone, it’s a great concept that we feel comfortable with. They did a good job. They played to their leverage. They had outside leverage, and we were running out breakers that they sat on it. I had nothing there to the field. When I came back, it was gonna be just a high-low from the tight end in the X, and I had pressure at that point. I just tried to give Jake a ball and Jake said he actually caught it, which I guess it wouldn’t have been a touchdown either way, but they did a good job. They did better than us on that. Honestly I go back to plays before that. Whether it’s me scrambling out on that one, maybe jump again, you know what I mean? Go get in the end zone, try to, or who knows, but we’ve got convert when we’ve got four opportunities down there. We’re way too good. We’ve got way too many elite players, and we’re just too good on offense to stall like that.”
On effect of trades and injury returns on the locker room
“You’ve seen it. You’ve seen it starting Monday and then obviously just getting into tonight. A game like this is all about confidence and belief in one another. When you’re down 21-0 early like that to one of the best teams in the league, defending world champions, for you to keep your resilience high and for you to stay focused and understand that you’ve got a chance. We’ve only been hurting ourselves. A lot of people think, ‘Oh no, sure we’ve messed up, but they’ve made us mess up.’ No, we were only hurting ourselves, and so our brotherhood’s growing. Obviously, we’ve been through a measure amount of adversity, losing a brother, but that’s only brought us closer together. And then when we’ve made these trades, and we’ve made these additions to the team, guys have come back and been healthy. It’s just made everybody feel more confident. Guys are communicating. Guys are connected, and it’s a fun group to be a part of and we’re going to try to keep this thing running.”
On waiting for tight end Brevyn Spann-Ford to find his balance on his touchdown reception
“I was waiting the whole time. I’m like, ‘Please don’t fall, Brev.’ I think I saw from the very beginning, him stumbling. I’m like, ‘Man, if he falls, I’ve got to throw it away, but if you can even just look up, buddy, I’m throwing it to you.’ And sure enough he was able to get his feet together, catch his balance, and I was able to give him a chance right before I went out of bounds. But yeah, I saw that from the very beginning of the play. We’re trying to get it to the running back. They did a great job of blowing that up. Even the other options and Brev’s really your last resort on the backside, and I was looking for him, and when he was stumbling I was like, ‘Please don’t fall. Please don’t fall.’ Hell of a play by him.”
On not kicking a field goal on fourth down
“After we didn’t get it, sure I’m like, ‘Damn, we should have kicked it.’ But absolutely not. I want the ball in my hands knowing you’re that close. I just said that’s on us. We’ve got to be able to find a way to execute. We’ve got too many good players, too many players that can win versus one-on-one. Great offensive line. No, I’m never upset about that call. Not only that, they’ve got to go 99 or 90 something yards against a defense who’s been stopping them all game, so it was the right call. Ultimately we stopped them. Ultimately got the ball back, decent field position. We’re able to make the plays, and Butter [Brandon Aubrey] went did what he did and finished the game off. So no surprise.”
On pass protection tonight
“Credit those guys. I don’t know if I’ve said it enough tonight, they did a hell of a job. That’s a good group up there that feels very confident in rushing with their four guys. Obviously they were bringing a fifth a good bit tonight. They were doing that because those guys up front were blocking their four guys. That’s a compliment to them when you see Philly bringing that fifth guy and doing it as much as they were trying to do, that they were holding up. [Running back Javonte Williams] was a big part of that, and not only that, the run game was, you have to have the run game working for those actions, for them to even begin to work. Compliment to those guys. If we didn’t put ourselves in a hole as much as we did early. I don’t know what the numbers quite were, but it would’ve been a very, very balanced game. I still think it was, right? Good amount of runs and yards. Javonte had a hell of a game, Malik [Davis] as well coming in there. All starts with the offensive line, they were a key tonight.”
On if this was his proudest win for what the team had to overcome
“Yeah, I mean it’s a special game. It’s a game that I definitely won’t forget. I’m not a guy of even thinking about records, taking memorabilia or things like that. After this game, one of the trainers asked me what I wanted to do with the jersey and I said, ‘Yeah, I’m going to keep that one.’ So I know it’s a game that I won’t forget. It’s a game that hopefully, I can look back you know and say this was the moment, this was the time, this game meant everything to that season. Right now just staying where my feet are. Super thankful for this team, for the men. For the opportunity, honestly. That’s what I was telling guys when we were down 21-0, you got to love this. That might be what I was saying at half, too. You got to love this. What an opportunity, it’s 21-7, this is what you do. We know we’ve got everything to be capable of coming back and winning this. This is when it gets fun. It was exactly that. Yeah, it’s one I’m definitely proud of — can’t say it’s the most proud. I’ll have to wait until the end of the career, then tell you that. Great team win tonight.”
Game schedule dates, times, locations
Nov. 24 at Miami, 6:30 p.m., KFAA, MavsTV
Nov. 28 at L.A. Lakers, 9 p.m., Amazon Prime Video
Nov. 29 at L.A. Clippers, 9 p.m., KFAA, MavsTV
Dec. 1 at Denver, 8 p.m., KFAA, MavsTV
Dec. 3 vs. Miami, 7:30 p.m., KFAA, MavsTV
Nov. 27 vs. Florida (at San Diego), 2 p.m., FS1
Nov. 28 vs. Providence or Wisconsin (at San Diego), 2 or 4:30 p.m., Fox
Dec. 5 vs. Notre Dame, 7 p.m., ESPN+
Dec. 7 vs. North Texas (at Dickies Arena), 4:30 p.m., ESPN+
Dec. 15 vs. Incarnate Word, 7 p.m., ESPN+
Nov. 27 vs. Richmond (at Cancun, Mexico), 8 p.m., FloCollege
Nov. 28 vs. UAB (at Cancun, Mexico), 5:30 p.m., FloCollege
Dec. 3 vs. Incarnate Word, 6:30 p.m., ESPN+
Dec. 6 vs. UTEP, 1 p.m., ESPN+
Dec. 14 vs. Jacksonville, 4 p.m., ESPN+
Nov. 25 at Edmonton, 8 p.m., Victory+
Nov. 26 at Seattle, 9 p.m., Victory+
Nov. 28 vs. Utah, 7 p.m., Victory+
Nov. 30 vs. Ottawa, 5 p.m., Victory+
Dec. 2 at N.Y. Rangers, 6 p.m., Victory+
Nov. 29 vs. Cincinnati, 2:30 p.m., Fox
End of the regular season
Nov. 28 vs. Temple, 2:30 p.m., ESPN
End of the regular season
NAIA playoffs
William Penn 38, Texas Wesleyan 9
Season complete
Nov. 27 vs. Kansas City, 3:30 p.m., CBS
Dec. 4 at Detroit, 7:15 p.m., Amazon Prime Video
Dec. 14 vs. Minnesota, 7:20 p.m., NBC
Dec. 21 vs. L.A. Chargers, noon, Fox
Dec. 25 at Washington, noon, Netflix
Dec. 13-14 Xtreme Xperience
This story was originally published November 24, 2025 at 1:08 AM.
Jim Barnes is the Star-Telegram’s sports editor. A Fort Worth native and graduate of Castleberry High School, he returned to Texas after 13 years at the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He previously was sports editor of the Waco Tribune-Herald and a freelance high school sports reporter for The Dallas Morning News.
After a gutsy defensive performance against one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL. The Eagles have improved to 8-2 on the season despite their own offensive struggles.
And while they were winning an NFC best 8 games through 11 weeks, they’ve successfully collected tiebreakers against 4 of 6 current playoff teams.
The Tiebreakers
Starting 4-0 was the best result for the Eagles to start the season strong. Giving Dallas a Week 1 loss helped jumpstart the lead they have on the NFC East, which currently sits at 3.5 games with only 7 weeks left in the season. There’s an opportunity to have the division wrapped up before December even starts. But before the Eagles can worry about an early notch into their season, they have to get through another round of Dallas Week.
Following the Week 1 celebration of Super Bowl LIX and kicking off the NFL season 1-0. The Eagles pulled together wins against the Los Angeles Rams(8-2), and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-4). Both teams who currently lead their divisions, and sit at 2nd and 4th in the early NFC playoff seeding. Even the Packers still sit at 2nd in their division at 6-3-1. One of Philadelphia’s defensive showings, managing to hold Green Bay to 7 points.
With teams like the Seahawks(7-3), 49ers(7-4)and Panthers(6-5) breathing down their respective divisions throats, it won’t take much for the standings to completely flip. Much like they did for Detroit Sunday night.
Coming into SNF in Philadelphia, Detroit could’ve claimed 1st in their division, and 2nd in the NFC with a win over the Eagles. But after 5 attempts on 4th down that resulted in 0 conversions. The Lions fell to 6-4 after a 16-9 loss to the Eagles. Going from 3rd in the NFC, and leading the NFC North. To 3rd in the NFC North, and down to 8th in the NFC. Sitting right outside the playoff bubble.
One More To Go
The Eagles will play one more team in the NFC during Week 13 that they could claim an important playoff tiebreaker over. The 7-3, NFC North leading Chicago Bears. A win over the Bears would give the Eagles an advantage against the majority of NFC playoff teams while their schedule gets lighter down the stretch against the Commanders (3-8) and the Raiders (2-8).
But first, they’ll have to go through Dallas (again.)
The Philadelphia Eagles take on their bitter rivals the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025. NBC10 will have pregame and postgame coverage of the NFC East showdown. Here’s how to watch.
Eagles Gameday Kickoff
Eagles Gameday Kickoff airs on Sunday, Nov. 23, on NBC10 at 1:30 a.m. ET and then re-airs at 9:30 a.m. ET. It will also stream on the NBC10 Philadelphia Streaming channel and in the video embedded on top of this article at 9:30 a.m. that day.
The special will be hosted by NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Amy Fadool and will feature the following:
An exclusive interview with NBC Sports Philadelphia’s John Clark and Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean at a Thanksgiving event
Highlights of other Thanksgiving events featuring Saquon Barkley, Jordan Davis and Jalyx Hunt
Eagles linebacker Zack Baun shows us the workout he does to stay in shape
Malcolm Jenkins – who is set to be inducted into the Eagles Hall of Fame – reflects on his most memorable moments with the Birds, including his postgame speech in 2017 to the team on the night that Carson Wentz’s season ended
Eagles experts Mike Quick, Ike Reese and Ross Tucker preview the team’s matchup against the Cowboys
Eagles vs. Cowboys
The Philadelphia Eagles (8-2) take on the Dallas Cowboys (4-5-1) on Sunday, Nov. 23, at 4:25 p.m. ET at AT&T Stadium. The game will air on Fox and will stream on Fubo.
Eagles Gameday Final
Eagles Gameday Final will air on NBC10 after Sunday Night Football and NBC10 News. The show – hosted by NBC Sports Philadelphia’s John Clark – will feature the following:
Highlights from the Eagles-Cowboys game as called by Merrill Reese and Mike Quick
A postgame breakdown from Mike Quick
A postgame interview with Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni
An interview between John Clark and an Eagles player
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Here’s a simple truth most casual bettors miss: rooting for the Eagles and betting on them are two very different games.
Passion won’t beat the spread. But precision might. Smart betting is more about cold metrics and knowing where to look.
That’s exactly where most fans fall short. They skim the headlines, follow the hype, and lock in bets based on emotion. Then wonder why the ticket didn’t cash. But seasoned bettors, especially those backing a data-rich team like the Philadelphia Eagles, know that value hides in the weeds.
Snap counts. Yards after contact. Pressure rates. All those invisible gears that turn on Sunday afternoon and make or break betting slips.
The Eagles, with their layered offense and aggressive D-line, are a stat lover’s dream. But if you’re not paying attention to the right numbers, you’re basically flipping coins.
But first, one major thing that quietly changed the game.
The Online Betting Boom and Its Impact on Fan Behavior
Online betting has ballooned into something far beyond the occasional office pool. It’s structured, data-driven, and legal in more places than ever before. For Philadelphia fans, this means easier access to platforms that offer not only traditional wagers but also live bets, player props, and advanced analytics.
Credit: Pixabay
Quality matters here. Not all platforms are equal in terms of interface, real-time data, and prop variety. That’s why many sharp bettors choose streamlined, well-regulated services that deliver both stability and depth. Among those setting a standard, New York sportsbooks have played a huge role. Their tight regulation and competitive markets have pushed platform quality upward across state lines, including states like Utah. For those curious about how to bet on sports legally in Utah online, understanding where and how state regulations differ is key to finding compliant, trustworthy platforms.
That’s why choosing where you bet matters nearly as much as how. Without solid platforms, even great data becomes noise.
Efficiency and Situational Stats
Yards gained and touchdowns scored look good on highlight reels. But they’re surface-level. Real edge comes from context. Is that a 100-yard game against a top-three defense or a bottom-feeder? Was the quarterback under pressure? Was the drive extended by penalties?
You want to track these less-glamorous, more predictive stats:
Offensive and defensive DVOA (Defense-adjusted Value Over Average): It compares teams not by raw yardage but by how efficiently they perform against average defenses or offenses.
Success rate on early downs: Forget 3rd-and-long. Elite teams win games by staying ahead of the chains. If the Eagles are efficient on 1st and 2nd down, it’s a sign of a strong game plan.
Red zone efficiency (offense and defense): A 90-yard drive that ends in a field goal instead of a touchdown means everything to your wager. Look at how Philly converts red zone trips and how often they bend without breaking.
Understanding these metrics helps reframe games not as highlight packages but as systems of repeatable patterns.
Quarterback Pressure Metrics
Let’s talk about Jalen Hurts, not through the lens of MVP chatter, but through the numbers that truly matter. Pocket time. Pressure-to-sack ratio. Air yards per attempt. If he’s being hurried constantly and still averaging long throws, you’re looking at a volatile game script. If he’s kept clean and tossing accurate short-to-intermediate balls, expect a methodical, controlled tempo.
Eagles fans should watch:
Pressure rate allowed by the O-line
QB scramble percentage
Average time to throw
These are golden when analyzing total points or player prop bets. More time usually means deeper throws. Higher pressure often means quicker check-downs or risky throws. Match this against the opposing defense’s blitz tendencies and you can start to predict game flow before kickoff.
Yards After Contact and Gap Success
Not all rushing yards are equal. A running back bulldozing for extra yards after first contact is a very different story from one sprinting through open lanes created by elite blocking. The main players may be gone, but the Eagles’ ground game remains a foundation, if you’re tracking it correctly.
Look at:
Yards after contact per attempt (YAC/A)
Run success rate per gap (inside vs. outside runs)
Opposing defensive front strength
If Philly faces a team soft on outside runs and the Eagles are leaning into zone stretches, expect yardage totals to tilt up.
Special Teams and Field Position (Underrated but Not Optional)
Casual fans ignore it. Smart bettors watch it like a hawk. Field position dictates playcalling. It affects point totals, time of possession, and momentum. Teams starting at their 35 instead of their 20 across several drives will eventually cash that advantage in.
Pay attention to:
Average starting field position
Opponent punt return average
Kickoff touchback percentage
If the Eagles have a return advantage and a leg that pins opponents deep, expect the field tilt to help both the spread and total plays.
Injuries, Snap Counts, and Role Players
Some bettors wait for injury reports. But it’s not enough to know who’s active.
You need to know usage trends. A wide receiver might be “healthy” but only see 40% of snaps. A tight end might be blocking more than catching.
Snap count trackers, injury trendlines, and role clarity can flip your assumptions. Just because a player is dressed doesn’t mean he’s a real factor.
After the Eagles barely made it out with a victory in Green Bay Monday Night. It was time to start preparing for another PrimeTime spotlight against the Eagles 3rd NFC North opponent of the year.
The Detroit Lions
Sundays match against Detroit will be the 2nd time the Sirianni/Hurts led Eagles will play the Campbell/Goff Lions. Previously, the Eagles won both matchups that took place at Ford Field. Winning 44-6 in 2021, and 38-35 in 2023.
And while this matchup won’t have nearly as much excitement as the NFC Championship Game that could have been last year. The winner and loser of this game could see a huge impact on playoff seeding within the next 5-6 Weeks.
The Cluttered NFC Race
Luckily for the Eagles. The NFC East is the only division that isn’t filled with multiple contenders, or teams just outside the wildcard bubble. Like the 49ers(6-4), Panthers(5-5) & Vikings(4-5). However, with two games left against NFC North opponents. The Eagles will be able to pull ahead in the division, and from the rest of the NFC.
Already having victories against the Rams(7-2), Buccaneers(6-3) and Packers(5-3-1) currently gives the Eagles the head to head tiebreaker against the current 5th, 4th and 7th seed in the NFC playoff race. While the odds of the Eagles dropping into a wildcard spot are low with a 4 game lead on the NFC East race. It has happened before. Being able to chain together wins during the toughest stretches of the schedule will help the Eagles lock up the division race as fast as possible, while still being in the thick of it for the Bye Week, or as much home field advantage as possible in the playoffs.
Schedule Down The Stretch
Following the Lions this weekend, the Eagles will see a total of three more teams in the current playoff picture, including:
6-3 Bears (Week 13)
7-3 Chargers (Week 15)
6-3 Bills (Week 17)
There will also be a gutsy game against the 3-5-1 Cowboys, who for some reason decided to be buyers at the deadline. Acquiring Quinnen Williams and Logan Wilson.
With some more breathing room between playoff opponents, the Eagles will also see the following teams who’s season is approaching an ugly finish:
2-7 Raiders (Week 15)
3-7 Commanders (Week 16 & 18)
Both teams will most likely be playing for a top 5-10 pick come December. The wins might not matter that late for the Eagles depending how the rest of this “gauntlet” unfolds.
With an impressive 7-2 run to start the season. How many wins will it take to clinch the NFC East?
Newly acquired Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Jaire Alexander was placed on the reserve/retired list just a day after it was reported that the 28-year-old NFL pro decided to step away from the game.
The team announced the roster move on Wednesday. Alexander, who was acquired before the trade deadline from the Baltimore Ravens along with a 2027 seventh-round draft pick, has been recovering from an offseason knee surgery.
Jaire Alexander #23 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts prior to an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams at M&T Bank Stadium on Oct. 12, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.(Michael Owens/Getty Images)
FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer first reported this week that the two-time All-Pro informed the Eagles of his decision to step away in order to focus on getting physically and mentally right before making a decision about his long-term future.
Sources told ESPN that Alexander has not formally submitted retirement paperwork.
Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) reacts in the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium.(Bob Donnan/USA TODAY Sports)
Alexander spent the majority of his career with the Green Bay Packers. In seven seasons, he registered 287 tackles and 12 interceptions and was an All-Pro in 2020 and 2022.
He was released by the Packers in June and appeared in two games for Baltimore this season.
Jaire Alexander (23) of the Baltimore Ravens warms up prior to an NFL preseason 2025 game against the Indianapolis Colts at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, on Aug. 7, 2025.(Logan Bowles/Getty Images)
The Eagles announced additional roster moves Wednesday, including activating cornerback Jakorian Bennett from the injured-reserve list.
Bennett joined the Eagles during training camp but suffered a pectoral injury in the team’s Week 3 win over the Los Angeles Rams. He’s registered six tackles and one pass defended this season.
This blog contains links from which we may earn a commission.Credit: Alex Korolkoff-Unsplash
The NFL is all about extreme human performance, a collision of physical titans under the unforgiving glare of the global spotlight.
We celebrate the jarring tackles, the gravity-defying catches, and the singular focus required to succeed in a brutal, high-stakes environment. Yet, beneath the helmet and pads exists a complex reality.
Professional football demands not only extraordinary physical strength but also a rare degree of mental performance, and the hidden toll of this demand is finally being addressed with the seriousness it warrants.
The narrative is shifting from a culture of “tough it out” to one that embraces vulnerability as the truest measure of strength.
Examining the intersection of immense pressure, the need for recovery, and the cultivation of long-term resilience reveals an essential, invisible game that every NFL player must play for their mental health and wellness.
Understanding the Pressure
The pressure on an NFL player is multifaceted, originating from sources both internal and external, creating a constant, low-grade thrum of anxiety.
Foremost is the extreme job insecurity, a pervasive stressor in a league where the average career is frighteningly short and a single bad performance or minor injury can mean instant termination. Players live in perpetual fear that someone else is poised to take their job, a reality that often drives them to mask pain and injury to avoid being sidelined. This professional precariousness is compounded by the pressure to perform flawlessly. Athletes often possess personality traits like perfectionism and intense commitment, which, while beneficial for athletic achievement, can become liabilities that lead to high anxiety levels and a crippling fear of failure, where underperformance can lead them to question their self-worth.
Credit: Alex Korolkoff-Unsplash
Beyond the field, the pressure to uphold an idealized public image, often referred to as “situational narcissism” in sports psychology, forces players into a denial of emotional problems. The image of the invincible athlete conflicts directly with the human reality of vulnerability, making it incredibly difficult for a player to admit they’re experiencing mental health struggles for fear of losing endorsements, respect, or their spot on the roster.
For many, this profession also involves the immediate acquisition of wealth and fame, leading to the stress of managing new finances, family expectations, and the loss of personal autonomy as their public and private worlds aggressively blur.
These factors together create an emotional environment ripe for feelings of depression, loneliness, and chronic stress, which can make players highly susceptible to seeking maladaptive coping mechanisms. Substance use is one example. An NFL player might misuse prescription painkillers to mask injury and stay on the field, or abuse alcohol and other substances to dull the mental anguish of performance failure and the blurring of public and private life. This transition from self-medication to full-blown substance dependence often leads to a dual diagnosis—the simultaneous occurrence of a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder.
Addressing this complex challenge requires an integrated treatment approach, recognizing that one condition often fuels the other, making it essential to treat both the underlying mental health issue and the substance abuse concurrently. Players, their families, and the league must learn more about this interconnectedness to ensure appropriate and effective therapeutic intervention.
Injury, Identity, and Cognitive Health
The conversation about pressure inevitably leads to the long-term mental health concerns that are disproportionately prevalent among those who play the game.
Chief among these is the relationship between physical trauma and psychological well-being. The sheer number of injuries players collectively suffer each season, particularly the cumulative effect of concussions and repetitive subconcussive head impacts, is a known precursor to significant mental wellness issues. There’s a concerning association between the number of concussions recalled and a subsequent diagnosis of depression and anxiety, along with self-reported cognitive decline. The physical act of playing football is, in a very literal sense, a direct risk factor for emotional instability, memory loss, aggression, chronic pain, and even suicidality, which are severe symptoms associated with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
The transition out of the league is a significant source of emotional distress as well. For many, football has been their entire identity since childhood, and when the career ends, often involuntarily due to injury or cut day, players face a sudden, profound loss of social identity and connection. They lose the structure, the immediate purpose, and the deeply ingrained social support system of the locker room. This abrupt transition can trigger or exacerbate depression and substance abuse issues, as the individual struggles to find a new definition of self that exists outside the shield. For years, this post-career void was a silent crisis, but it has become a critical focal point for current and former player mental health support, particularly for NFL vets.
A New Framework for Recovery
In recognition of these complex and urgent needs, the NFL and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) have fundamentally reformed their approach to player mental health, shifting from a reactionary stance to a proactive, comprehensive framework of recovery and support.
A landmark change came with the NFL-NFLPA Joint Agreement on Behavioral Health Clinician, which mandated that every team hire a behavioral health clinician. This professional, a dedicated mental health specialist, must be available to players for emotional and mental support, a crucial step in normalizing mental health care by making it an integrated part of the club facility and routine, just like physical training.
The league has established several key mental health resources to ensure confidentiality and accessibility, dismantling one of the largest historical barriers to seeking help. The NFL Life Line is a free, confidential, and independently operated resource available 24/7/365, connecting current and former players and their families with trained crisis counselors. Programs like NFL Total Wellness provide comprehensive resources and education at every stage of the player life cycle, from rookies learning to navigate their new reality to Legends adjusting to life after football. They offer benefits like eight free, in-person or virtual counseling sessions per topic per year for players and their loved ones through their EAP services, ensuring that cost is not an impediment to initial treatment.
This institutional commitment acknowledges that recovery must be holistic, extending beyond the rehabilitation of a torn ligament to include the healing of the mind.
The Power of the Shared Story
While policies and resources provide the infrastructure, it’s the courage of the individual players who share their stories that truly catalyzes a culture change. The stigma surrounding health and wellness has historically been enforced by the perceived need for absolute “mental toughness” in professional sports. However, a growing number of current and former NFL athletes have stepped forward, using their platform to redefine what strength means.
Former players like Ryan Leaf have been candid about their struggles with substance use and mental illness under the public spotlight, detailing a journey of recovery and resilience that was initially hampered by the very stigma he grew up with in the hyper-masculine environment of the locker room. Other veterans, such as Marcus Smith II, have spoken openly about reaching a point of crisis, including an attempt to end his own life, and the subsequent difficult but necessary work of therapy to let down the “shield and helmet” that had become his emotional wall. For them, healing involved recognizing that their challenges are a long-term journey, not a single event to be conquered, and that true achievement can be as simple as waking up in the morning, getting out of bed, and taking a shower.
These powerful, public narratives serve as a lifeline, showing teammates, coaches, and staff that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but the strongest play an athlete can make.
Cultivating Resilience
In the context of the NFL, resilience is a dynamic and continually cultivated process—the capacity to return to effective functioning following a stressor. For professional football players, this involves developing specific mental skills to navigate the constant adversity of the game. It means having the psychological tools to deal with a devastating loss, a career-threatening injury, or a torrent of public criticism without letting those external factors shatter self-worth or derail performance.
The cultivation of resilience relies heavily on a robust support system. This includes licensed clinicians, but also teammates, coaches who understand their role extends beyond tactics, and family members. Learning to view failures and setbacks not as condemnations but as opportunities for growth is a core component of this mental training.
Meanwhile, programs now focus on skills like visualization, emotional management, positive self-talk, and establishing meaningful connections outside of the sport. For a player to thrive, they must learn to integrate their athletic life with their personal life, developing a sense of self that isn’t wholly dependent on the fleeting success of a Sunday afternoon.
In the end, it’s this deeply rooted personal identity and the network of support surrounding it that allows a player to “bounce back” not just from a physical hit on the field, but from the existential and emotional hits that come with a life in the league.
Final Words
The exploration of NFL mental health reveals a profound truth: the extraordinary pressures placed on these elite athletes necessitate an equally extraordinary commitment to their internal well-being. The culture of silence is dissolving, replaced by an infrastructure of resources and a growing chorus of advocates who have publicly traded their armor for authenticity.
The daily, often grueling work of managing anxiety, navigating trauma, and defining a resilient self is now recognized as being just as critical as the physical competition.
Ultimately, the league’s embrace of mental health professionals is a moral imperative that ensures that the men who sacrifice their bodies for the entertainment of millions are also given the support they need to maintain their minds, find lasting purpose, and build a sense of well-being that extends far beyond their final snap.
This blog contains links from which we may earn a commission.Credit: NFL Network-Facebook
Carson Wentz arrived in Philadelphia with big expectations, giving the Eagles fans hope.
Unfortunately, then came the injuries and setbacks that stole the momentum.
It’s a story that feels more human than headline-glamour, and Philly still has mixed feelings.
The Promising Rise
Drafted as the second overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Wentz showed promise. But it was in 2017 that things really kicked into gear, and by the time he got hurt near season’s end, he’d thrown for 3,296 yards with 33 touchdowns and only 7 interceptions in just 13 games. His passer rating was 101.9 in that stretch. He also rushed for 299 yards that season.
Credit: NFL Network-Facebook
That stretch had everyone talking. He had the kind of spark that made fans believe he could be special. And when you look at what defines the greats, like steady leadership and the ability to make a team feel, it’s easy to see why some thought Wentz might join top NFL quarterbacks of all time. For a brief stretch, he looked like he was heading straight there.
…And Then The Fall
One play in Los Angeles changed everything. An awkward step, an ACL tear, and suddenly his season was done. Nick Foles took over. They won the Super Bowl, and Wentz had to watch the celebration from the sideline.
Injuries have followed him ever since. Back, knee, head. All at different times. He played only 11 games in 2018, and the numbers were fine, but the rhythm was gone, as was the explosiveness.
In 2019, he posted more than 4,000 yards and 27 touchdowns, but still, it simply wasn’t the same as he was pressing. By 2020, the confidence had cracked. The throws that once looked automatic were suddenly forced or late.
He bounced from Philadelphia to Indianapolis to Washington. Each stop brought the same story: flashes of talent, followed by inconsistency.
NFL executives started using a brutal word – “broken.”
They said he looked fine in practice, but when the games started, everything had to be perfect around him. If it wasn’t, his mechanics unraveled. He’d freeze up, double-clutch, miss the open read. He wasn’t the same athlete anymore, either, with the pocket becoming a cage.
The Verdict
By late 2023, the league had made up its mind, and analysts compared his situation to Sam Bradford, who was talented, got paid well, but was out of the league before 35.
And yet, people who’ve worked with him still like him. They describe him as earnest, coachable, and even kind. He tried to fix things, tried to make it work. But sometimes, football doesn’t give you another shot.
Why It Unraveled
The physical damage was part of it. But the mental toll might’ve been worse. Wentz never seemed to fully trust his body again. That led to hesitation. Hesitation led to mistakes. And mistakes, in the NFL, cost you your job.
The Eagles moved on. The Colts moved on. Washington did too.
More recently (2025), he signed with the Minnesota Vikings, seeing action after younger QBs were injured and revealing that he’s now more of a stopgap option than a long-term franchise leader.
Why Philly Fans Still Feel Something
If you’re a Philadelphia fan, you saw Wentz do something rare. He gave hope and made big throws. He helped the team earn an 11-2 record in games he started in that 2017 run, then got hurt, and the team won the Super Bowl with the backup. A lot of complicated feelings: gratitude, frustration… and sadness for what might have been.
The human side matters. Wentz wasn’t perfect; he made bad throws and had games where he struggled. But he also overcame injuries, came back, and tried to lead. Loved his team. The “could’ve-been” element resonates.
Ideally, What Could He Have Been?
Had Wentz stayed healthy, kept improving, and maybe adapted his game, he might have joined the ranks of the top-tier quarterbacks – those are QBs who remain elite 8-10 years, evolve when defenses evolve, maintain leadership.
The missing piece in Wentz’s story is the “sustained” part. One season isn’t enough. Injuries interrupted the rhythm. Changes in team staff, receivers, and the offensive line all added turbulence.
The Takeaway
So here’s what I came away with: Wentz achieved a level that gave hope. But he didn’t stay there. That doesn’t mean he failed. He still had a good career, made plays, and was a starting QB for many years. But he didn’t reach the “special” level that the very best QBs show.
And for Philly fans, it’s okay to feel both pride and disappointment. He gave you the thrill of imagining a franchise quarterback. You bought into that. Then reality hit. And life moved on.
In a world where so many QBs never even get close to what Wentz did in 2017, his story is one of both promise and caution. A reminder that in the NFL, being very good isn’t enough if you want to be legendary. Being durable, being consistent, being the guy on the late-night drives in January, that’s where the legends live. Wentz almost got there. He had that moment. But he didn’t live there.
And maybe that’s okay. Because sometimes the most human quarterback stories aren’t about records or Hall-of-Fame résumés. They’re about the rise, the fall, the “what if,” and how fans remember it.
That game — a 1939 matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbett’s Field — saw some 1,000 fans (mainly in the New York area) tuned in to see those leather helmets.
The result was a Sunday afternoon obsession that has overwhelmed us to this day.
Sometime around the latter half of the 1920s , televisions first began to make their way into Philadelphia homes. They did not become mainstream there until after the end of World War II. Philo Farnsworth and Vladimir Zworykin — two pioneers of the TV industry — even hosted the first-ever live broadcast of a football game in 1934 at our own Franklin Institute during The Great Depression.
The very initial TV Broadcasts in Philadelphia date all the way back to another Great Depression Year (1932), transmitted by the Philco Corporation’s own W3XE.
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Last February — even for those who were not interested in an Eagles Super Bowl LIX blowout win against the Chiefs 40–22 — saw an average viewership in the United States of 127.7 million viewers and a peak viewership of 137.7 million viewers.
Two weeks ago, the first Eagles and Giants matchup drew some 15.6 million viewers. For the rematch this Monday night — of last season’s NFC Wildcard Playoff Game that drew 39.5 million viewers — I’ll be watching.
If your holiday shopping list includes an Eagles fan — or if you’re an Eagles fan yourself — this one is for you.
Football’s favorite festive trio, former Eagle Jason Kelce, and current Eagles linemen Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, better known as The Philly Specials, are back to spread holiday cheer with their annual charitable initiative, Operation Snowball.
Starting November 7, at 9 a.m. ET, The Philly Specials, in partnership with Just Play, will open pre-orders for The Holiday Huddle, a collectible set of plushies in the likeness of the players dressed in festive midnight green sweaters embroidered with their names and numbers.
Sized between 8.5 and 9.25 inches, organizers said this 3-pack of ultra-life-like collectible plushies comes ready to squish and makes the perfect gift.
Bre Furlong
Bre Furlong
Pre-orders for the $49.99 plushie set can be made by visiting The Philly Specials’ official website. Orders are expected to ship the week of Thanksgiving.
“Making music with my friends and donating to organizations committed to making the lives of Philadelphia families and students brighter during the holidays has been a highlight of the past three years,” Jordan Mailata said in a news release. “We are looking forward to bringing the joy back again this year with proceeds from the new plushies, and a few other surprises.”
“When we released the first album, A Philly Special Christmas, we had no idea how impactful it would be – for both the organizations we supported and the joy we were able to spread throughout the city. Last year our efforts culminated with a citywide initiative that provided a gift for every student in the School District of Philadelphia,” said Vera Y Records and Operation Snowball executive producer Connor Barwin. “We are excited to continue the tradition of giving and fun with new surprises for a fourth holiday season this year.”
It doesn’t look like Disney-owned channels including ABC and ESPN will be returning to YouTube TV anytime soon. The Walt Disney Co. pulled its channels from YouTube TV as of midnight on Oct. 30 after the two companies failed to reach new terms on their latest carriage agreement and the spat is showing no signs of a resolution yet. While big sporting events are often where the rubber meets the road on these channel blackouts, YouTube TV subscribers were unable to see any college football games on ABC or ESPN all weekend, and it’s looking like this weekend will be just as frustrating for sports fans.
YouTube TV had previously stated that if Disney’s channels remain off the platform for an extended period, customers will receive a $20 monthly credit. YouTube has confirmed this credit hasn’t been activated yet for customers, but if and when it is, the discount provides little consolation if you want to watch this weekend’s college games or your favorite shows like Abbott Elementary, Grey’s Anatomy and Dancing with the Stars the night they air.If you do want to watch any live shows or sports this week, you’ll need to seek out alternative viewing methods. And unfortunately for YouTube TV’s negotiating position, there are plenty of options.
One of the cheapest ways to watch ESPN is with a Sling Day Pass — for just $5/day, you can tune into any and all ESPN programming with no other commitments. If you want a full switch from YouTube TV, there’s Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV, or Fubo, where you can watch all the Disney-owned channels. (Remember, unlike a lot of cable plans, you can easily pause or cancel YouTube TV or any of these alternatives, so long as you have month-to-month subscriptions.) Below, we’ve outlined some of your best options to watch ESPN, the Disney Channel, ABC and more, all pulled from our list of best live TV streaming services to cut cable, as well as a comprehensive list of which channels have been affected, and the biggest sporting events of the week that won’t be available to YouTube TV subscribers.
What games are on ESPN/ABC this week?
If you’re wondering what games you might miss as a result of the YouTubeTV/Disney blackout, here’s a list of some upcoming sports you may not want to miss:
College Football
Thursday, Nov. 6
7:30 p.m. | Georgia Southern at Appalachian State | ESPN2
7:30 p.m. | UTSA at South Florida | ESPN
Friday, Nov. 7
9 p.m. | Tulane at Memphis | ESPN
Saturday, Nov. 8
12 p.m. | No. 5 Georgia at Mississippi State | ESPN
4 p.m. | Kennesaw State at New Mexico State | ESPN+
4 p.m. | Georgia State at Coastal Carolina | ESPN+
5 p.m. | Texas State at Louisiana | ESPN+
7 p.m. | Wake Forest at No. 14 Virginia | ESPN
7 p.m. | Cal at No. 15 Louisville | ESPN2
7 p.m. | Florida State at Clemson | ACCN
7:30 p.m. | LSU at No. 4 Alabama | ABC
7:30 p.m. | Florida at Kentucky | SEC Network
NFL
Monday, Nov. 10
8:15 p.m. | Philadelphia Eagles vs. Green Bay Packers | ESPN/ABC
Grab an ESPN bundle so you won’t miss the NFL, NBA or any other games
For $29.99, the ESPN unlimited package includes access to all of ESPN’s linear networks: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SECN, ACCN, ESPNews and ESPN Deportes, plus access to programming on ABC, ESPN+ content, ESPN3, SECN+ and ACCNX. That means fans will get coverage of more than 47,000 live events each year, on-demand replays, original programming and more so you won’t miss a single Monday Night Football game or any weekend college football game on ABC or ESPN’s suite of channels. Plus, you can watch your favorite ABC shows the day after they air.
Right now, for a limited time, you can bundle ESPN unlimited with Disney+ and Hulu and pay $29.99/month for 12 months — that’s like getting those other services free for a year. Even if you’re a current subscriber to Disney+, Hulu or even the bundle, you can still upgrade to this great deal.
Hulu’s live TV tier includes access to live TV channels like ESPN, ABC, NBC, Fox, and access to Disney+ and ESPN select. For a limited time, you can get a hefty discount on the service for 3 months. New and eligible returning subscribers (those who have not been Hulu subscribers in the past month) can sign up for Hulu + Live TV (with ads) for $64.99/month for their first three months. This is an especially great value considering that Hulu and Disney+ increased their prices on Oct. 21.
You’ll also enjoy access to unlimited DVR storage, the ability to stream on multiple devices and more. This special rate ends at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on Nov. 18.
After the three-month trial period, your subscription will continue at the regular market rate of $89.99, but if you’re looking for an alternative to YouTube TV, now’s the perfect time to take advantage of this deal. (If the YouTube situation is resolved before the weekend is up, you can also just sign up for a 3-day trial of Hulu + Live TV).
Try Fubo free for a week and get $30 your first month
If you’re looking for a stopgap so you won’t miss any major games or shows this weekend, Fubo is offering a free 7-day trial so you can check out everything the platform has to offer, risk-free, and on top of that, you can get $30 off your first month.
Fubo TV gives you access to ESPN, Fox, ABC, CBS, NFL Network, and 100+ more live channels. At $80/month, the live TV streaming service is definitely a big investment but it’s one of the most comprehensive ways to watch live TV including the new NCAA season, the NFL, MLB and more, and still leaves you with major savings compared to a traditional cable package. Fubo subscribers also get 1,000 hours of cloud DVR storage.
Try DirecTV free for 5 days, and get $30 off your first month
DirecTV offers loads of great live channels, which means you can watch thousands of live sporting events, live TV and more with a regular subscription. And right now, for a limited time, you can get a $20 bill credit off your first month when you sign up, plus at least $10 more off per month for your first 24 months with a DirecTV Choice, Ultimate or Premier package — that’s over $250 in savings. You can find information on every package here.
Right now you can also get a free 5-day trial to test out the platform.
You may have heard that Sling offers day, weekend and week passes to its streaming programming for as little as $5 per day. That is an option if you’re looking for just some of the ESPN channels (the Sling Orange tier), but ABC isn’t included. (If you’re just looking to catch one of this week’s big games, like Monday Night Football on ESPN, it’s a great short-term solution.) If you want a longer-term solution, you can get both ESPN and ABC with Sling’s Orange and Blue package ($30 a month to start, $61 thereafter), but you’ll need to add on the Sports Extra package for ESPNU, which requires an additional charge.
Get your local Disney/ABC programming for free
Need your local ABC programming? Your station may have its own free local streaming news channel (many do), you can see if The Roku Channel carries your local station’s news, or download your local news station app if it’s a Nexstar channel.
The other alternative — if you’re within the broadcast radius of a local ABC affiliate — is to get an over-the-air antenna. You can plug in your ZIP code at antennaweb.org to see what channels are in your area. This off-brand unit has worked very well in our initial testing — it’s under $30, and the channels are truly free.
Which channels are no longer available on YouTube TV?
Every channel that’s owned by The Walt Disney Company is currently blacked out on YouTube TV. Those channels are:
Update Nov. 6 2025, 4:38PM ET: This story has been updated to include viewing info for weekend college football games, as well as the next Monday Night Football.
Update Nov. 5 2025, 12:32PM ET: This story has been updated to include detailed info on tonight’s ESPN NBA games.
Update Nov. 3 2025, 6:36PM ET: This story has been updated to include YouTube TV’s latest response to Disney’s request to restore its channels for just 24 hours.
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From roaring crowds to iconic eats, the Philadelphia sports scene offers some of the most passionate, intense, and unforgettable game days in the country.
Whether it’s a chilly Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field or a summer evening at Citizens Bank Park, every Philly venue delivers something unique for fans.
Philadelphia is a city that breathes sports. The energy surrounding every major game, whether football, baseball, hockey, basketball, or soccer, is woven into the city’s identity. Visitors often find that the atmosphere here goes beyond simple fandom.
It is about pride, tradition, and being part of a community that celebrates every victory and feels every loss together.
Each venue in the city has its own character and rituals that make attending a game a one-of-a-kind experience. For those exploring Philly’s entertainment culture beyond the arenas, local hotspots like Millioner add another layer to the city’s vibrant leisure scene.
Lincoln Financial Field and the Eagles’ Fierce Tradition
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Few experiences compare to an Eagles home game at Lincoln Financial Field. From the moment you step near the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, the air buzzes with anticipation. Tailgating begins early, often hours before kickoff, as fans fire up grills, set up tents, and share food and stories with complete strangers who feel like old friends.
Inside, the sound of “Fly, Eagles Fly” echoes from every corner of the stadium. The Linc’s design keeps the noise close to the field, creating an electric environment that can overwhelm even seasoned visiting teams. For many fans, the best part of the experience is the sense of unity. Win or lose, everyone in green and white shares the same emotional roller coaster.
Those looking for food should not miss the local flavor. From Tony Luke’s cheesesteaks to Chickie’s and Pete’s crab fries, the concessions at the Linc celebrate Philadelphia’s comfort food traditions. For a quick bite before the game, head to Xfinity Live across the street, where the pregame party spills over with live music and team chants.
Citizens Bank Park and the Phillies’ Family Atmosphere
While the Eagles’ home turf thrives on intensity, Citizens Bank Park offers a more laid-back but equally passionate vibe. Phillies fans bring a deep sense of tradition, often attending games as families who have followed the team for generations. The ballpark’s design makes every seat feel close to the action, and its wide concourses and open views of the field enhance the fan experience.
The food selection here is widely regarded as one of the best in Major League Baseball. Beyond the expected hot dogs and pretzels, fans can find gourmet options like Bull’s BBQ, Manco & Manco pizza, and classic roast pork sandwiches from Tony Luke’s. The Yard, located in right field, is a family-friendly zone complete with a wiffle ball field and photo spots for kids.
On summer evenings, the energy is unbeatable. The skyline glows in the distance, the crowd rises for the seventh-inning stretch, and the stadium fills with the rhythm of rally towels and cheers. For locals and visitors alike, it is the quintessential Philly summer night.
Subaru Park and the Rise of Philadelphia Union
Soccer has been steadily growing in popularity in Philadelphia, and nowhere is that more evident than at Subaru Park in Chester. The Philadelphia Union’s home sits along the Delaware River, offering a scenic backdrop for an increasingly devoted fan base. What makes the Union’s matches stand out is the community atmosphere. The Sons of Ben, the club’s official supporters’ group, leads chants, songs, and coordinated displays that make even first-time visitors feel part of the action.
The match-day experience starts well before kickoff, with tailgates lining the parking lots and fans waving blue and gold flags. Inside, the energy is constant. Soccer may not yet rival football or baseball in overall attendance, but the intensity of the Union faithful makes every goal, save, or penalty kick feel monumental.
Subaru Park also emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, making it easy for new fans to get involved. With affordable tickets, easy transit options, and a welcoming culture, it represents the next evolution of Philadelphia’s sports identity.
