Eagles versus Lions: 5 potential matchups to watch in Week 1

Amon-Ra St. Brown #14, Detroit Lions, Avonte Maddox #29, Philadelphia Eagles (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
Amon-Ra St. Brown #14, Detroit Lions, Avonte Maddox #29, Philadelphia Eagles (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /
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Jalen Hurts #2, Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts #2, Philadelphia Eagles, Tracy Walker III #21 Detroit Lions (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

It’s impossible to discuss an Eagles game without making mention of QB1, Jalen Hurts.

Sometimes, we forget that Jalen Hurts‘ next start will be his 21st at the professional level if you count the first postseason appearance of his career (and you should). He’s still learning how to do the job, but no one cares about that. NFL stands for “Not For Long” if the results aren’t favorable.

This team’s success or failure, especially on offense, will be placed at his doorstep. After all, the quarterback position is the only position in football that has a win-loss record attached to it.

Jalen Hurts versus the Lions’ defensive scheme

The first test of QB1’s season will, hopefully, produce good fruit. Rule number one is understanding that he won’t have to beat teams single-handedly.

He has a spectacular supporting cast, and versus the Lions, on paper, an offense with playmakers everywhere should be able to conquer a defense that isn’t as good as the one they face in practice.

Jalen Hurts will have the opportunity to make some plays, especially seeing as how Detroit is limited at the cornerback position. If his line holds up, and it should, he should be able to make some plays.

Aidan Hutchinson versus Jordan Mailata

So, what’s it like to be a rookie in the NFL you ask? If you’re Aidan Hutchinson, your first career assignment is an all-day battle with one of the best young left tackles in the game, Jordan Mailata. Our money is on Number 68.

It’s his job to protect Jalen Hurts’ blindside, and we’re certain that he’s up to the task. The second-overall selection from the 2022 NFL Draft will have to wait for at least one more week to enjoy his breakout party.