PHILADELPHIA – Tanner McKee didn’t just step onto the field for his first NFL start; he rather showed up ready to seize the moment. Filling for Jalen Hurts and Kenny Pickett, both sidelined by injuries, McKee completed 27 of 41 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Philadelphia Eagles to a 20-13 victory over the New York Giants on Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field.
The game, which secured the Eagles' impressive 14-3 record and tied the franchise mark for wins in a season, saw McKee make the most of his opportunity. “It’s like I’m back in college,” McKee joked at the podium postgame, reflecting on the moment.
Despite the stakes being lowered because both teams were locked for the playoffs, McKee’s performance dazzled. The Eagles, resting many starters including star quarterback Jalen Hurts, aimed to give their backups valuable game time. Eagles coach Nick Sirianni said it felt like the team created their own bye-week, adding, “Any time you can get the guys rest this late in the season... it’s huge to be able to do.”
On his first scoring drive, McKee connected with rookie Ainias Smith for a 15-yard touchdown pass, placing the Eagles on the board early. The game was marked by contributions from various backup players, showing the team's depth. McKee later added another touchdown pass to E.J. Jenkins, solidifying his grasp on quarterback responsibilities with each play he made.
Even though McKee was operating without top talents like Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith, who were rested, he methodically dished the ball out to eight different receivers. Jahan Dotson captured the spotlight as well, boasting seven receptions for 94 yards, marking his best game as an Eagle.
Defense played its part too, with the Eagles limiting the Giants to just 238 total yards. The Giants, who suffered their 14th loss of the season, squandered valuable plays and let defensive penalties make it easier for the Eagles to run down the clock toward the end of the game.
An interesting statistic from the matchup showed the stark difference between both squads: the Eagles, with their record now tied for the most wins in franchise history, were on another plane compared to the Giants, who continued their dreadful season where they ended at the bottom of the NFC East without a win.
“We didn’t lose any faith in him,” coach Sirianni stated when asked about Jake Elliott’s earlier missed field goal. “He went out and ripped two [later].” Elliott’s missed 39-yard field goal early could have caused concern, but his reliability later helped seal the win with two successful field goals.
Looking to the future, the Eagles plan to host the Green Bay Packers for their playoff opener next weekend. With Tanner McKee showcasing poise and command under pressure, speculation around the quarterback position will surely intensify. Although McKee will likely return as the backup behind Hurts, he may have carved out enough trust to make him the primary option should anything go awry.
Fans and analysts alike are curious about how this young quarterback’s performance will influence decisions on roster dynamics going forward. If McKee continues to perform at this level, itwould diminish the need for the Eagles to retain Kenny Pickett as he sits with sore ribs.
McKee reflected on his growth from the experience, saying, “It’s nice to kind of have [this game] under my belt. And I think, for me, it just builds confidence.” His command on the field and ability to make quick decisions may turn out to be invaluable as the Eagles prepare for their playoff run.
With playoffs approaching, it’s worth noting how McKee’s efforts may allow Hurts more time to recover completely from his concussion. His adaptability and calm demeanor under pressure, combined with the support from his teammates—like running back Will Shipley—who remarked on McKee’s leadership, signify promising prospects for the Eagles.
And for the Giants, it’s back to the drawing board following this year of discontent. Left tackle Jermaine Eluemunor summed up their disappointing season bluntly, stating, “I never want to be part of a game like this again or a season like this again.”
Overall, the Eagles not only clinched their victory and enhanced McKee’s confidence but built momentum to carry with them as they prepare for their playoff quest, hopeful of adding more wins to their record.<\/p>