Eagles-Bengals Preseason Showdown: 10 Awards Given Out

Highlights from the Eagles-Bengals Preseason Game

The Philadelphia Eagles faced off against the Cincinnati Bengals in a preseason matchup on Thursday, showcasing their backup players. As the game wrapped up, we reflected on the key moments and performances by handing out ten awards.

1. The ‘Still Got It’ Award 💁‍♂️: Tanner McKee

McKee continues to shine in the preseason, delivering an impressive performance with 20 completions out of 25 attempts for 252 yards, along with two touchdowns and no interceptions. One notable highlight was his accurate throw to rookie Darius Cooper. Only one of his incompletions could be attributed to a drop by Grant Calcaterra, while a couple were strategic throwaways.

McKee has solidified his role as an essential backup quarterback, making it clear that a trade involving him would not be considered.

2. The ‘Ruh Roh’ Award 😧: The Eagles’ CB2 Spot

Kelee Ringo struggled against the Bengals’ starters, particularly on a play where he allowed Ja’Marr Chase to easily catch a pass and score. This performance raises concerns about the Eagles’ cornerback depth, as Ringo’s struggle was evident, and Adoree’ Jackson didn’t fare much better either.

3. The ‘Eat It, Goodell’ Award 🙅‍♂️: The Tush Push

In a crucial moment during a fourth-and-goal situation from the one-yard line, the Eagles executed the Tush Push successfully with McKee at the helm. Fans at Lincoln Financial Field erupted with cheers as the team lined up for the play, highlighting the ongoing debate around the play that Roger Goodell and others unsuccessfully attempted to ban this offseason.

4. The ‘Gamer’ Award 🎮: Johnny Wilson

After a quiet start to training camp, Wilson shone in the game with three catches for 73 yards, including two impressive contested grabs and a strong back shoulder catch. Although he had a subsequent drop and appeared to misplay a fade in the end zone, his performance showcased his potential.

5. The ‘Ooh, a Spark!’ Award 🌟: Ainias Smith

Smith made his mark with two catches for 11 yards and a touchdown, along with a notable punt return, indicating his potential in the first preseason game.

6. The ‘Long Shot No More’ Award 🐶: Darius Cooper

Undrafted rookie from Tarleton State, Cooper impressed fans with his six receptions for 82 yards and a touchdown. His best play came on a slant route where he displayed patience and agility, creating significant yards after catch. Based on his performance, it’s likely he will secure a spot on the roster.

7. The ‘Camp Battle, Over’ Award ✅: Tyler Steen

Sten has been awarded the spot of starting right guard and affirmed his position with a strong performance, making a key block on a 38-yard run by Will Shipley. After just one series of play, it appears the competition for this position has concluded.

8. The ‘Preseason Legend’ Award 🦸‍♂️: Patrick Johnson

Johnson is proving to be a consistent game-changer in the preseason. In last year’s first game, he secured a crucial strip sack that helped the Eagles win. This year, he followed up with an interception after an initial sack was nullified by a penalty, continuing his trend of dominant play against third-string opponents.

9. The ‘Shaky Debut’ Award 😟: Kyle McCord

McCord had a tough outing, completing only one of five passes for eight yards and throwing an interception that resulted in a touchdown for the Bengals. With Dorian Thompson-Robinson outplaying him in training camp, the Eagles may face a tough decision regarding this quarterback situation.

10. The ‘Hey We’re Just Having Some Fun Out Here’ Award 🎉: Jake Elliott and Braden Mann

In a playful moment following the Eagles’ second touchdown, punter Braden Mann took the PAT, with Jake Elliott serving as his holder. Though Cooper DeJean, the emergency holder, was not on the field, this move allows Mann to gain valuable experience in case Elliott is ever sidelined.

In the end, the Eagles triumphed with a score of 34-27, concluding a night of exciting football.

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