At a Glance
- Jalen Carter returns after three missed games.
- He records a sack, multiple pressures, and a game-winning PAT block.
- Eagles edge the Bills 13-12 in Buffalo.
Why it matters: Carter’s comeback fuels the Eagles’ playoff push and showcases his impact on defense and special teams.
After a three-game absence caused by shoulder procedures, Philadelphia’s defensive tackle Jalen Carter re-entered the lineup in Sunday’s 13-12 victory over the Buffalo Bills, delivering a sack, several pressures and a clutch PAT block that kept the Eagles ahead.
Carter’s Return: A Dominant Performance
Carter, 24, said the shots in both shoulders felt better than before, allowing him to strike heavy bags and regain strength. He noted, “They felt good…like, way better than before. I guess that shot really did its thing.”
- Sack on Josh Allen
- Several pressures on the line
- Game-winning PAT block
Nick Sirianni said:
> “Huge,”
> “He’s a big-time player. Just a big-time player who made big-time plays. You saw it.”
Jaelan Phillips said:
> “You guys see what he does for us. The blocked extra point is basically what won us the game when you think about it.”
Special Teams Impact
Carter, alongside Jordan Davis and Byron Young, prepared by walking the field and spotting a low-trajectory kick from Bills’ Michael Badgley. Carter lined up against the “fish” on the PAT block, a play the team practices daily.
Defense vs. Josh Allen
The Eagles sacked Allen five times, all via a four-man rush-second-most sacks Bills allowed all season. Carter’s second-quarter sack of guard O’Cyrus Torrence showcased his one-on-one prowess.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Sacks on Allen | 5 |
| Pressures | Several |
| PAT block | 1 |
Looking Ahead
With only one game left, the Eagles’ defense looks formidable. Jordan Davis emphasized getting Carter’s body back together, stating, “Rest, recover, get everything back together.”
Key Takeaways
- Carter’s return was pivotal in the 13-12 win.
- His PAT block prevented a potential game-winning point.
- The Eagles’ defense remains a threat heading into the playoffs.
Carter’s comeback demonstrates the critical role he plays on both defense and special teams as the Eagles chase a playoff berth.
