Eagles’ Jalen Hurts Commits Two Turnovers on Same Play in Loss to Chargers
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts had a night to forget in Monday’s 22-19 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Hurts committed two turnovers on the same play, a feat that has not been seen since 1978, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. The play occurred midway through the second quarter when Hurts threw an interception to Chargers defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand, who fumbled during the return. Hurts recovered the ball but fumbled it back to the Chargers as he was hit.
This unusual play was just one of five turnovers committed by Hurts on the night, including a game-ending interception in overtime. The Eagles’ quarterback was also intercepted on the next series, marking the first time he was picked off on consecutive drives in his career. Hurts’ five giveaways tied the most by an Eagles player since play-by-play was first tracked in 1978, matching Donovan McNabb during his rookie year in 1999.
Post-Game Reaction
After the game, Hurts took responsibility for his mistakes, stating, “I didn’t play well enough. Too many turnovers. Lots of opportunities, especially when we get on the other side of the 50 and I wasn’t able to get us in the box.” Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown also acknowledged his role in the loss, citing multiple drops, including one that led to an interception and another in the end zone late in the fourth quarter.
Brown expressed his disappointment, saying, “That last one in the end zone… that one hurt the most. I’m more than capable of making those plays. I made some plays, but I wasn’t great when it mattered.” The Eagles’ coach, Nick Sirianni, offered his perspective on Hurts, emphasizing that the game is a team effort and that he needs to do a better job of helping his quarterback in critical situations.
Game Highlights and Low Points
Despite the loss, there were some notable performances from the Eagles. Saquon Barkley had a 52-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter, reminiscent of his NFL Offensive Player of the Year campaign in 2024. The Eagles’ defense, led by Vic Fangio, also had a strong showing with seven sacks. However, the team’s offensive woes continued, with the Eagles averaging only 15.5 points over their previous four games.
In overtime, the Eagles had a chance to win the game, but Hurts’ pass for Jahan Dotson was tipped and intercepted by Tony Jefferson at the 1-yard line, securing the win for the Chargers. Barkley expressed his confidence in Hurts, saying, “When we have the ball in overtime and I’ve got Jalen Hurts as my quarterback, I have all the confidence that we’re going to win the football game. Sometimes, it just doesn’t work.”
Looking Ahead
The Eagles have now dropped three straight games, falling to 8-5, but they remain in a good position over the Dallas Cowboys (6-6-1) in the NFC East. The team is looking to stop their slide and will host the 2-11 Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday before visiting the Washington Commanders on Dec. 20. Sirianni emphasized that the team will “stay the course” and “keep grinding it out” to get out of their current slump.
As the Eagles move forward, they will need to address their offensive issues and find a way to reduce turnovers. With their upcoming schedule, they have the opportunity to regain their momentum and make a push for the playoffs. However, it will require a collective effort from the team, including improved performances from Hurts and the offense, as well as continued strong play from their defense.
