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Eagles’ Jalen Hurts starts Week 1 vs Commanders

9/9/2026

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Summary

Hurts Dominates

Philadelphia Eagles open Week 1 against Washington Commanders with quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Hurts is 5-0 in games he started and finished versus the Commanders since 2022.
Hurts completed 44 of 66 passes (74.2%) to DeVonta Smith for 620 yards, four touchdowns, no interceptions.
Eagles tackle No. 29 Jalen Carter, who threatens the Commanders’ interior line.
Running back Saquon Barkley can produce a 60-yard run through a single gap.

Summary

Commanders Hire Jones

Commanders hired Daronte Jones as their first-time NFL defensive coordinator.
Odafe Oweh returned to practice and is trending toward Week 1 play.
Laremy Tunsil is on injured reserve with a torn triceps and will miss the opener.
Washington signed veteran wide receiver Van Jefferson to the practice squad after waiving him on Aug. 30.
Trey Amos starts the season on injured reserve, leaving Amik Robertson and Mike Sainristil as starters.

History

Historical Context

In 1972, Don Shula’s Miami Dolphins became the NFL’s only team to finish a championship season undefeated, posting a 14-0 regular season and 17-0 overall record. That rarity set a benchmark for dominance, a pattern echoed today as quarterback Jalen Hurts has started five straight wins over the Washington Commanders since 2022, prompting teams to adjust strategies.

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Hurts Dominates

Philadelphia Eagles open Week 1 against Washington Commanders with quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Hurts is 5-0 in games he started and finished versus the Commanders since 2022.
Hurts completed 44 of 66 passes (74.2%) to DeVonta Smith for 620 yards, four touchdowns, no interceptions.
Eagles tackle No. 29 Jalen Carter, who threatens the Commanders’ interior line.
Running back Saquon Barkley can produce a 60-yard run through a single gap.

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