Eagles Coach Confirms Patullo Will Remain Play Caller After Loss

PHILADELPHIA — Following a disappointing performance against the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed that offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo will continue in his role as play caller. Sirianni stated, “No, I haven’t” considered any changes, emphasizing a collective approach to improving performance.

During a press conference on Monday, Sirianni addressed the challenges faced by the team after they squandered a commanding 21-point lead, ultimately falling to the Cowboys 24-21. “As coaches, we’re always looking for answers and we’re never into assigning blame,” he noted, highlighting that the performance involved multiple factors, including coaching, player execution, and game strategy.

The Eagles saw an aggressive start to the game, scoring three touchdowns within the first quarter. However, they failed to score again after their early dominance, punting five times, missing a field goal, and committing a turnover during their final eight possessions. This led to a perception that the team may have eased off in their aggressive strategy. Sirianni refuted this notion, insisting that the goal remained to extend their lead throughout the game.

He explained, “To go up 21-0…you’re trying to do everything you can to go up 28-0, 35-0. I felt like we were aggressive all game. The execution and play calling were better in the first half than the rest of the time.”

Quarterback Jalen Hurts echoed his coach’s sentiments, stating, “Overarching, we’ve got to find a way to finish the game, and we’ve got to find some consistency in what we do.” He acknowledged the team’s struggle to maintain performance across both halves, describing it as “a tale of two halves.”

As the Eagles prepare for their upcoming game against the Chicago Bears on December 1, 2023, they face additional challenges with injuries. Rookie safety Andrew Mukuba suffered a fractured ankle during the game against the Cowboys and will require surgery, leaving his return uncertain. Sirianni commented on Mukuba’s situation, stating, “He’ll be out for some time and we’ll see… It’s never just the 53 guys; it’s the 70 guys. You never know when those guys’ opportunity will come.”

The team also has concerns regarding the status of cornerback Adoree’ Jackson, who is currently in concussion protocol. Meanwhile, safety Reed Blankenship, who is managing a thigh injury, is expected to play in the upcoming match.

With the season progressing, the Eagles aim to address their offensive stagnation and find ways to enhance consistency in their gameplay. As they move forward, the focus remains on strategic adjustments and harnessing the full potential of their roster.