Unlike a decade ago, Eagles have the tools to make the most of hot start to 2024

It's November, and the Philadelphia Eagles are off to a strong 6-2 start to this season. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and caution.

The last time the Eagles began their campaign with that same win-loss total was 2014. It was a year that began with high hopes but ended in a surprising and disappointing absence from the playoffs.

Under then-head coach Chip Kelly, the Eagles controlled their fate for much of that season, only to be plagued by late-season struggles and crucial divisional losses. The current campaign has shown similarities to one played ten seasons ago. Fans and analysts alike are wondering if 2024 will have a different outcome.

Once upon a time, promising 6-2 start turned into chaos, and a season-ending injury catalyzed a downward Eagles spiral.

Oh, what a year it was! The 2014 Philadelphia Eagles Season...

Weeks 1-3

The Eagles launched their 2014 season with a thrilling 3-0 start, showcasing offensive firepower and resilience. Week 3 was especially memorable, as they defeated Washington 37-34 in DeSean Jackson’s homecoming game.

Jackson balled out against his old team and put up impressive stats—five receptions for 117 yards and one touchdown—but the Eagles held on for the win, bolstering their early record and building excitement among fans.

Weeks 4-6

After a narrow 26-21 loss to the 49ers in Week 4, the Eagles quickly bounced back, marking a powerful statement in Week 6 by blanking the Giants 27-0. This was their first shutout since 1996, and the defensive dominance combined with offensive prowess left fans optimistic.

Weeks 7-9

Entering Week 9 with a 6-2 record, the Eagles looked like true playoff contenders. Despite turnover challenges, Nick Foles continued to lead the team, but the season took a dramatic turn with the quarterback’s collarbone injury in Week 9 against the Texans.

Backup quarterback Mark Sanchez stepped in and threw for 202 yards and two touchdowns, securing a 31-21 victory that kept the Eagles on track despite the setback.

Weeks 10-13

Sanchez provided steady leadership in Foles’ absence, as the Eagles built on their record, including a decisive 45-21 victory over the Panthers in Week 10.

Week 12 brought an electrifying start against the Titans, with rookie Josh Huff returning the opening kickoff 107 yards for a touchdown—the Eagles’ first win against the Titans since they became the Titans.

In Week 13, the Eagles triumphed over the Cowboys 33-10 on Thanksgiving Day, claiming sole control of the NFC East and tying for the best record in the NFL at 9-3.

Weeks 14-17

The season saw a complete skid starting in Week 14, as the Eagles faced the Seahawks and suffered a tough 24-14 loss. Weeks 15 and 16 then brought consecutive divisional losses to the Cowboys and Washington.

The Week 16 loss was especially bitter, as a fourth-quarter interception by Sanchez left their fate in the hands of the Dallas Cowboys: If Dallas defeated the Indianapolis Colts, they would prevail and the Eagles would fall short.

And that is exactly what happened. Despite being officially eliminated from playoff contention, the Eagles completed the season sweep over the Giants in Week 17 and the season came to an end.

They finished the year 10-6, and completely emptyhanded. The team had multiple Pro Bowl selections in 2014, featuring LeSean McCoy, Jason Peters, Jason Kelce, and Connor Barwin. What might the current journey bring us?

So far, so good on Philly’s 2024 campaign.

The Eagles’ 6-2 current record in 2024 reflects both their potential and the need for consistency. In their recent Week 9 victory over the Jaguars, Philadelphia extended its winning streak to four games, thanks to standout performances by key players.

Jalen Hurts continues to showcase his agility and command on the field, while Saquon Barkley runs with the perfect combo of power and precision. Despite injury setbacks, A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith have added their own highlight reel moments this season as well.

Head coach Nick Sirianni has faced criticism on multiple occasions this season following questionable playcalling. 4th-down decisions, two-point conversion attempts, and misdirected opening drive game plans have certainly made things more difficult than they need to be.

The defense is also finding its groove. Linebackers Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean have become game-changers with their tackling prowess and turnover-forcing ability. Edge-rusher Josh Sweat is creating pressure in the backfield, while rookie cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean uphold the ‘No Fly Zone’.

If the Eagles can maintain their momentum and avoid the lapses that almost cost them in Week 9, Philadelphia is well-positioned to make a stronger postseason push than in 2014.

Will the current Eagles team outperform the 2014 squad? We shall see.

A decade ago, what seemed like a promising season fell short due to late-season struggles and missed opportunities in key games.

The 2024 Eagles, equipped with a strong roster and valuable lessons from close calls, have the tools to avoid a similar fate. If they can continue refining their execution and capitalize on critical divisional games, this year’s team has a real shot at going deeper than previous years.

A win in Dallas would send a clear message: This is a team ready to not only reach the postseason but to make a lasting impact.

As the Eagles prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys in Week 10, they aim to turn a strong start into a truly dominant season. A win over their divisional rival would extend their winning streak to five games, placing them at 7-2 and improving their positioning in the NFC East race.