The Philadelphia Eagles are aiming to achieve a historic 10-game winning streak, which would be the first in their 92-year franchise history, as they prepare to face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers, their Keystone State rivals, on Sunday. Despite maintaining an unbeaten streak since September, the Eagles (11-2) are heading into this highly anticipated matchup amid controversy surrounding the strained relationship between quarterback Jalen Hurts and star receiver A.J. Brown. The team will need to be at their best as they face off against the revitalized Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3), who have won seven of their last eight games, with their only loss during that stretch being a close five-point defeat against the Cleveland Browns in snowy conditions during Week 12.
The Eagles had to deal with some damage control this week following comments made by team captain Brandon Graham on a podcast, suggesting that Hurts and Brown were no longer on good terms. Graham later apologized for his remarks, which came after a subpar performance by Hurts in the previous game, where he threw for a season-low 108 yards in a narrow 22-16 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Brown, on the other hand, had a modest performance in that same game, catching four passes for 43 yards and only managing one touchdown in his last seven games. When asked about areas for improvement after the Carolina matchup, Brown emphasized the need to enhance the passing game.
Philadelphia coach Nick Sirianni clarified that Brown’s comments were not meant to criticize Hurts directly but were more focused on the team’s overall passing game improvement. He expressed confidence in both Hurts and Brown as exceptional individuals and players who are committed to enhancing their performance and achieving success on the field.
The Steelers, led by Russell Wilson, have shown significant improvement since Wilson took over as the starting quarterback in Week 7. With a 6-1 record under Wilson’s leadership this season, the Steelers are looking to secure a playoff spot with a victory against the Eagles. Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowl selection, has been instrumental in the team’s success, averaging 254.9 passing yards per game with 12 touchdown passes and just three interceptions. He orchestrated a comeback win against the Browns in the latest game with two second-half touchdown passes.
Both teams face a challenging schedule ahead, with the Steelers set to play three games in 11 days against opponents with a combined record of 31-8. Despite the tough matchups, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin emphasized the importance of staying focused on the immediate task at hand and dedicating all efforts to winning the upcoming game against Philadelphia.
In terms of player availability, the Steelers may be without key players like George Pickens due to injuries, while the Eagles are managing injuries to players like Sydney Brown, Reed Blankenship, Jalen Carter, and Britain Covey. The Eagles currently hold a lead of 49-29-3 in the rivalry with the Steelers, who are aiming to turn the tide in
The New York Giants have struggled to secure a victory at Lincoln Financial Field, facing a losing streak in Philadelphia dating back to 1965. This historical record has put the Giants at a disadvantage in the City of Brotherly Love.
