Unlikely heroes play key role in Eagles’ comeback OT win over Giants

Boston Scott. Sidney Jones. Josh Perkins. JJ Arcega-Whiteside. If you told me that these four would play key roles in the Philadelphia Eagles’ overtime, comeback win over the New York Giants, my first question would be, “overtime comeback win?!”

Yes, it should not have been that difficult. Yes, you have every reason to be concerned moving forward, especially with the wave of injuries that have once again crashed upon the Eagles’ shore. No, the players do not and will not care about the expectations coming into the game or the Vegas line.

This is the type of shot in the arm the Eagles needed. It’s the one we’ve been waiting for and asking for from Carson Wentz. It won’t matter to them that they were two-score favorites, or that they were down 17-3 against a bad New York Giants team led by the ghost of Eli Manning. What will matter to them is that they pulled off a 23-17 victory in overtime.

With the aforementioned injuries impacting the Eagles, they needed unlikely heroes. Only carrying three wide receivers coming into the game, Alshon Jeffery left the game early for what could be a serious injury. Later in the game Greg Ward Jr. would be seen limping around and Arcega-Whiteside would have step up and convert a big-time third down conversion.

This is great example of how Arcega-Whiteside “wins”. Win the release through the cornerback, utilize a “forearm pull” to clear contact, stack, track, and have the body control and hands to haul in a tough catch over the outside shoulder. Important situation and one of the better catches we’ve seen from an Eagles’ receiver all year (unfortunately, if we are being honest).

Speaking of big moments and big plays, how about Sidney Jones?! The much embattled corner was tasked with coming off the bench cold on a 3rd & 3 with the Giants having a chance to drive down the field for a game-winning field goal attempt if they converted. Jones responded by giving us one of his best coverage reps as a pro.

These are the situations where the Eagles have consistently failed in 2019, but Monday night was a different story. Unlikely heroes, incredible comeback, and now Doug Pederson has something he can use as a rallying point. You have every right to be skeptical considering the opponent, but the emotion of the win likely trumps that context for the players.

We talk more about the Eagles 23-17 win over the Giants, and also talk about our concerns moving forward, on The Kist & Solak Show #156! Listen on the media player below or click here if the player doesn’t load. New to podcasts?! Check out our guide on how to listen to BGN! FLY EAGLES FLY!