Mac Jones outplays Jalen Hurts in losing effort

The Patriots' comeback bid came up just short on Sunday as the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots. On a day when Patriots legendary quarterback Tom Brady was celebrated, Mac Jones looked to have some late game Brady magic. But, with Kayshon Boutte having poor field awareness, the possible game-winning drive came up short.

Despite the loss, Mac Jones outplayed Jalen Hurts and was the better quarterback overall. It took Jones some time to hit his stride, but once he did, he looked like his rookie-year version, which Patriots fans fell in love with. The loss is upsetting, but Jones can build off Sunday's performance.

On the day, Jones went 35-54, completing 64.8 percent of his passes, throwing for 316 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Also, he had a passer rating of 91.3. If not for this effort from Jones, this game would have been over quickly. The Eagles defense really struggled at times to stop Jones, as he had ten straight completions during the second quarter.

Philadelphia also couldn't get Jones to the ground until the fourth quarter, which played a huge factor in Jones' performance. He was able to find Kendrick Bourne twice in the end zone, and also would move around in the pocket and extend plays or let his receivers get open in order to make a play.

As for Jalen Hurts, he did just enough to give Philadelphia the win. Hurts didn't shine much as the Patriots defense clamped down on him after giving up an early touchdown. On the day, Hurts went 22-33, completing 66.7 percent of his passes, throwing for 170 yards and one touchdown. He did have a crucial fumble while also rushing for 37 yards on nine attempts.

Additionally, the Patriots' defense got to Hurts three times compared to the Eagles' defense getting to Mac only twice, both in the fourth quarter.

Nobody knew what the Patriots offense was going to look like. It's safe to guess that many didn't see Mac outplaying Hurts today, either. Even in a losing effort, today was a step in the right direction.

In a game where it feels like the Eagles escaped, Hurts barely did enough while Mac gave the Eagles defense problems throughout the exciting week one matchup. Mac showed on Sunday that he can succeed against top defenses and will once again be tested on Sunday night football against the Miami Dolphins next week.