Eagles Cruise Past Giants 38-20 Behind Hurts, Barkley Performance

The Philadelphia Eagles exacted revenge on the New York Giants with a commanding 38-20 victory at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, bouncing back from their earlier upset loss with a dominant performance that was only briefly contested.

Jalen Hurts orchestrated an efficient offensive attack, completing 15 of 20 passes for 179 yards and four touchdowns, while Saquon Barkley delivered a statement performance against his former team with 150 rushing yards on 14 carries and two total touchdowns.

Eagles Strike Early, Never Look Back

The Eagles wasted no time establishing dominance. On just the second snap of the game, Barkley exploded through the Giants' defense for a 65-yard touchdown run—his first 20-plus-yard run of the season. The electrifying score set the tone for what would become a dominant afternoon for the Eagles' offense.

"That had to feel good for Saquon Barkley," CBS Sports noted of the opening-drive touchdown against his former team. The run showcased the explosive ability that had been somewhat dormant through the first seven weeks of the season.

Hurts distributed the ball efficiently throughout the afternoon, connecting with tight end Dallas Goedert twice for touchdowns, including scores of 6 and 17 yards. The performance gave Goedert six touchdown receptions on the season, establishing a new career high.

Giants' Promising Start Derailed by Injury

The Giants showed signs of life in the first half, with rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart completing 14 of 24 passes for 193 yards and a touchdown. Rookie running back Cam Skattebo provided an early spark with a touchdown reception on a wheel route that tied the game at 7-7.

However, the game took a devastating turn in the second quarter when Skattebo suffered a severe ankle injury that required an air cast and cart to remove him from the field. According to the Giants' official report, Skattebo suffered a dislocated ankle and was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.

"Players on both teams looked heartbroken at the scene of the rookie's injury," CBS Sports reported, describing the somber moment that temporarily halted the game's momentum. Before the injury, Skattebo had three carries for 12 yards and the 18-yard touchdown reception.

Eagles Pull Away in Second Half

Leading 21-10 at halftime, the Eagles systematically extended their advantage throughout the second half. The Philadelphia defense, which had struggled in the earlier meeting between these teams, held firm when needed and generated consistent pressure on Dart.

Tank Bigsby provided a spark in relief of Barkley, rushing for 104 yards on nine carries, including a 29-yard burst that showcased the Eagles' depth at running back. The combination of Barkley and Bigsby helped Philadelphia accumulate 277 rushing yards as a team.

Wide receiver Jahan Dotson added a 40-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter, while DeVonta Smith hauled in six catches for 84 yards, effectively filling the void left by the absent A.J. Brown (hamstring).

Giants Unable to Mount Comeback

Despite brief moments of competitiveness, the Giants couldn't overcome their offensive limitations and mounting injuries. Dart added a rushing touchdown late in the fourth quarter, but by that point, the outcome had long been decided.

The Giants' defense, missing several key contributors, struggled to contain the Eagles' multifaceted attack. Philadelphia converted crucial fourth-down attempts and controlled time of possession, limiting New York's opportunities to build momentum.

Kicker Graham Gano, returning from injured reserve, connected on field goals of 47 and 34 yards in his first action since Week 2, providing one of the few bright spots for the visiting team.

Injury Concerns Mount for Both Teams

Beyond Skattebo's devastating injury, both teams dealt with additional health concerns throughout the contest. Giants cornerback Cor'Dale Flott was ruled out with a concussion in the third quarter, while tight end Daniel Bellinger exited with a neck injury and was listed as questionable to return.

For Philadelphia, there was a brief scare when Barkley appeared to pull up with a leg injury after a 28-yard run in the third quarter. He went to the medical tent but returned to action shortly thereafter, though his workload was reduced down the stretch with the game well in hand.

Looking Ahead

The victory improves Philadelphia to 5-2 heading into their Week 9 bye, giving them time to heal and prepare for the second half of the season. The dominant performance against a division rival provides momentum and confidence after their earlier stumble against this same Giants team.

For New York, the loss drops them to 2-5, and the injury to Skattebo compounds an already difficult season. The rookie had shown flashes of potential in his limited opportunities, making the injury particularly unfortunate timing for a team searching for any positive developments.

The Eagles' balanced offensive attack—277 rushing yards combined with Hurts' efficient passing—demonstrated the versatility that makes them dangerous when operating at full capacity. With the bye week ahead and key players potentially returning from injury, Philadelphia remains firmly in the NFC playoff picture.

The Giants, meanwhile, face difficult questions about their offensive identity and their ability to compete in a loaded NFC East division. With Dart still developing and injuries mounting, the path forward remains challenging for a team desperately seeking answers in the second half of the season.