The NFL is back, and Philadelphia officially started its march toward another postseason berth with a much anticipated preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. Kenny Pickett was 13-21 for 90 yards and one touchdown, and the Eagles are tied 6-6 with the Ravens to end the first half at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
Both teams held out key starters, but Philadelphia defensive coordinator Vic Fangio ensured key players saw snaps in the first half. Most of the offensive and defensive starters sat out for the Ravens, allowing second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson to shine.
On offense, Josh Johnson was 4-12 passing for 60 yards, while Owen Wright led the Baltimore rushing attack with seven carries for 33 yards.
With the second half set to begin, here are takeaways and observations from the first half in Baltimore.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is a problem
Trotter is instinctual and has the benefit of sharing dinner and breakfast with one of the greatest linebackers in Eagles franchise history.
Nakobe Dean late arrival
Nakobe Dean’s first defensive snaps came with 5:34 remaining in the second quarter. Philadelphia’s starters at linebacker were Zack Baun and Devin White. Dean had one tackle in the first half and one pass defended.
Quinyon Mitchell/Kelee Ringo duo
Philadelphia gave us a preview of the future with Quinyon Mitchell and Kelee Ringo getting snaps together. Isaiah Rodgers got snaps on the outside with RIngo, while Mitchell got the initial snaps in the slot. The Eagles surrendered 62 yards passing in the first half.
Johnny Wilson
Wilson got the start for Philadelphia and had one catch for seven yards on two targets and a crucial block on the Will Shipley touchdown.
Mekhi Becton
Mekhi Becton gets the start at right guard, while the rest of the Eagles starting offensive line didn’t dress.
Kenny Pickett
Pickett was 13-21 for 90 yards and one touchdown in the first half, and solidified his status as the backup.
Eagles offensive starters not in unifomr
The Eagles’ top offensive starters, including Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Lane Johnson, and Jordan Mailata, were not uniform.
