There is no debating the fact that Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts had a historically bad game in Monday night's 22-19 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Hot take shows are going to have no problem flaming the quarterback's four interceptions, including one that was punched out and recovered by Hurts, only for the quarterback to fumble the ball back to the Chargers. It was an ugly night that required little explanation or commentary. With that said, Hurts deserves continued patience and understanding even amid the worst game of his career.
While there are no valid excuses for this type of performance, it isn't the first time a star quarterback has had an awful night in a stagnant offense. If you need evidence that great players struggle, consider Patrick Mahomes tossing three interceptions without a single touchdown earlier this weekend or Tom Brady and Josh Allen both having multiple four-turnover games.
Philly's takeaway from the game shouldn't be doubting Hurts, but offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo and a system that has appeared broken all season long. A year ago, with the majority of the same pieces in place, this was among the most dominating units in the league, and no one was questioning the talent or ability of Hurts. At 27, there is no chance the quarterback is past his prime, making it clear that the issues go far deeper.
Eagles Shouldn't Question Hurts After Failing Offense Set Up Miserable Performance
Playcalling and a lack of creativity are the hallmarks of this offense, and it was on full display yet again on Monday night. Predictable handoffs up the middle on first down or running the same predictable and bland plays have left an incredibly talented unit searching for answers, which resulted in a poor night for Hurts.
It should be noted here that this is not excusing the performance, but rather reminding fans that it is OK to look at the bigger picture. Hurts has led Philly to two Super Bowls in his career and put up 525 passing yards, 70 rushing yards, and four total touchdowns in what were two incredibly impressive performances.
Hurts has been on the league's biggest stage and outplayed Mahomes. Part of this was beating Matthew Stafford, Jordan Love, and Jayden Daniels in playoff games while facing incredible pressure. This doesn't absolve Hurts or take away the failures of Monday night, but rather it provides a bit of needed perspective.
This Philly offense is clearly broken, and Hurts had the worst performance of his career, failing at every turn when the Eagles badly needed a win. Still, to doubt the quarterback or not acknowledge that it appears to be the offensive system itself that is broken would be disingenuous. This would be a prisoner of the moment mentality that simply doesn't give Hurts his due credit for what has been accomplished.
No question, Hurts must play winning football and do a far better job protecting the ball. But if the Eagles are going to correct course and end their late-season slide, it will be due to offensive adjustments and becoming more creative and less predictable. This will be what turns back the clock for Hurts and proves that the incredibly talented quarterback should still be trusted even after what was the worst start of his career.