The Philadelphia Eagles faced significant challenges on Sunday due to two injuries in their offensive line, but still managed to set a record for points scored in a conference-championship game by defeating the Washington Commanders 55-23.
“Everybody’s battling,” said Eagles offensive lineman Landon Dickerson after the game. “You don’t get anything promised at this time of the year with the playoffs. Everybody’s got to do everything they can to win this game.”
Center Cam Jurgens, dealing with a back injury, was unable to start. As a result, Dickerson, who had been a Pro Bowl left guard and an All-American center at Alabama, was moved to center. However, a knee injury prevented Dickerson from playing in the second half, and Jurgens had to finish the game despite his own injury.
“He’s one of the toughest guys I know – him and Landon,” said Eagles right guard Mekhi Becton. “They’re very tough. I was telling Landon the whole time I saw him messing with his knee, ‘All right, bro. I’m here for you. Don’t try to kill yourself, but I’m here for you. I got you.'”
Dickerson hadn’t played center since September 29, and Philadelphia used Nick Gates as center during a November game. However, Gates was ineligible to play on Sunday, leaving Dickerson and Jurgens to push through their injuries.
“These guys are playing through pain,” said Eagles coach Nick Sirianni. “I just can’t say enough about how much I respect these guys for what they have to do with their bodies. This is a marathon. All these guys are fighting through pain.”
Despite the injuries, the Eagles showcased their resilience and determination, securing a historic victory in the conference championship.
