Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is on the verge of achieving a significant milestone as he prepares for a pivotal playoff match against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. With six victories in his nine postseason appearances, Hurts has the opportunity to become one of just 16 quarterbacks in NFL history to secure seven playoff wins within their first 10 starts. He would join an elite group that includes notable names like Bart Starr and Ken Stabler, reflecting a remarkable achievement in playoff performance.
Hurts has already made a noteworthy impact in the postseason, highlighted by his MVP performance during Super Bowl LIX. In that championship game, he led the Eagles to a commanding 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, capping off the 2024 season with an impressive display of skill and leadership.
Throughout his playoff career, Hurts’ journey has not been devoid of challenges, including a heartbreaking 38-35 loss to the Chiefs in Super Bowl LVII, where he recorded remarkable stats, becoming the first player in NFL history to achieve over 300 passing yards, 70 rushing yards, and three touchdowns in a single Super Bowl. Despite this, Hurts maintains a confident outlook, crediting his success to both inherent traits and the invaluable lessons learned through experience. “Some things are in you,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and resilience.
As the Eagles prepare to face the 49ers, Hurts recognizes the caliber of their opponent, commending their coaching and physical style of play. Previous matchups have showcased the intensity of this rivalry, with the Eagles experiencing mixed results against San Francisco. Notably, the Eagles pulled off a decisive 31-7 win in the NFC Championship Game last season, showcasing their ability to rise in critical moments.
Hurts, who has started three games against the 49ers, expressed respect for their competitive nature, stating, “They got really good coaching, and they play very hard, fly to the ball, very physical.” Such acknowledgment illustrates the level of preparation and mindset required as the Eagles approach this crucial game.
The Eagles finished the regular season with an 11-6 record and will host the wild-card 49ers at Lincoln Financial Field. With high stakes and championship aspirations, Hurts and his team are poised to give their best effort, aiming to capitalize on the lessons learned from past experiences as they strive for another postseason victory.