The Eagles enter halftime up 28-24 28- to the Miami Dolphins in what has been a high-scoring first half. Predictably, there were plenty of rollercoaster moments along the way. Here’s a closer look at some of the Eagles biggest first half standouts.
Mychal Kendricks
He’s done it again. Mychal Kendricks hauled in ANOTHER (yes, that’s three if you’re counting) preseason interception. It was admittedly tipped off of a C.J Smith deflection, but Kendricks solidified his strong preseason with a first half in which he was consistently in the opposing backfield and very nearly came down with a sack. Regardless of whether Kendricks is making his case for a really strong resume or a future in the Eagles locker room, it’s safe to say he’s succeeding.
Wendell Smallwood
It was a slow start for the Eagles backfield that was again headed by LeGarrette Blount, but the same can’t be said for Wendell Smallwood. The sophomore back made his first preseason appearance of the year for the Eagles and tallied 28-yards on 4 carries. Interestingly, the Birds’ ran a near identical play with Smallwood and Blount and the difference in outcome was substantial. He may well be done for the night, but Smallwood was able to slash his way to a big play and show that level of physicality many have praised him for during camp.
Chris Long
The veteran pass-rusher was simply a force to be reckoned with in the first half. He may only have two tackles to his name, but the former Patriot set the edge impressively throughout and was able to pave the way to some impressive run stops and tackles for a loss. The Eagles have a lot of depth on the defensive line…but one man you cannot overlook is Chris Long.
The new guys:
Both Alshon Jeffery and Torrey Smith scored a touchdown in the first quarter and both players schooled former Eagles CB Byron Maxwell…what a time to be alive. Smith caught a 50-yard pass to mark his first ever preseason TD reception, while Jeffery bullied his way to two receptions totaling 35-yards. Carson Wentz looked sharp, but so did his new shiny toys!
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
