In a do-or-die game, the Eagles started strong, but had issues sustaining the early-game momentum. With the opening 15 minutes coming to a close, the Eagles trail Washington 13-7 but have possession of the ball at the Redskins' 35-yard line after a 43-yard Jordan Matthews catch with 16 seconds remaining in the quarter ...

Fast Start For The Birds

With their backs against the wall, the Eagles knew they had to come out swinging. Philadelphia scored the first points of the game, moving the ball 80 yards on six plays for an opening-drive touchdown. Quarterback Sam Bradford was a perfect 4-of-4 connecting with Matthews, Nelson Agholor and twice with Zach Ertz for a total of 50 yards.

The team also gained 23 yards after a defensive pass inference penalty was called on Washington's Will Blackmon, which brought the ball to the 1-yard line. The very next play, running back Ryan Mathews punched the ball in for his sixth rushing touchdown of the season.

Washington Fires Back

Immediately following the opening touchdown, the Eagles' defense also did its part allowing the Redskins to gain only 9 yards and forcing them right back off the field. However, on the team's second drive, Washington, led by quarterback Kirk Cousins, moved 69 yards down the field and finished with a 22-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jordan Reed. The Eagles would keep their lead though for the time being, as Redskins kicker, Dustin Hopkins, missed the extra point attempt.

Peters Briefly Sidelined

At the 9:40 mark of the first quarter, left tackle Jason Peters was injured during a second-down play. Dennis Kelly came in to take his place for the remainder of the drive, but Peters returned to the game during the offense's next possession.

Trouble Dealing With Cousins

In the first quarter, Cousins continued his dominant streak, which is causing problems for the Eagles' defense. The signal caller went 9-of-11 for 128 yards and two touchdowns, one for 22 yards and one for 12 yards.