Former Falcons wide receiver nails down what went wrong for Jalen Hurts in 2023

Jalen Hurts had one of the roughest endings to a season in recent NFL history. After coasting for much of the 2023 season, the team slipped to a 1-6 run to end the year, including the playoff loss. Throughout the offseason, analysts have attempted to dissect what went wrong.

One NFL analyst believes he knows the answer. Speaking on Friday's edition of "Get Up," former Falcons receiver Harry Douglas said Jalen Hurts struggled because he could not figure out a solution for the blitz.

"[They said:] 'We're going to all-out blitz the Philadelphia Eagles because we know they don't have the answer to the test.' They showed that on tape all season long and that's how they left the football season in 2023." [00:04:00][42.2] Get Up

This, of course, should be quite worrisome for Jalen Hurts fans. Blitzes offer the easiest opportunity for offenses to score if identified and handled correctly at the line of scrimmage. When a defense blitzes, it leaves most defenders in one-on-one situations. If a receiver can be hit in stride while outrunning a defender, he could score a touchdown or get a massive big play.

That is why defenses rarely employ the option. However, they also have the chance to ruin a drive if executed correctly. In other words, it is a high-risk, high-reward defensive strategy. With the Eagles unable to beat it, the blitz became a low-risk, high-reward strategy.

Jalen Hurts' "tush push" potentially in danger after Jason Kelce's retirement

Jalen Hurts at Philadelphia Eagles v New York Giants

The Philadelphia Eagles' return to prominence was marked by the rise of the "Tush Push." The quarterback sneak was essentially flawless in picking up first downs in short-yardage situations. Teams across the league tried and failed to duplicate the modified sneak.

Now, with Jason Kelce out of the picture, questions surround the team's ability to keep the play's efficiency in 2024. If no other teams with a different quarterback-center duo were unable to duplicate the play, can the same team duplicate their success with a different center?

At this point, fans can only speculate. Most don't expect the Eagles to employ the play in the preseason due to its premier nature. The majority of NFL teams run a generic offense in the preseason to keep their tricks reserved for when the games count. However, in September, all bets will be off, for better or worse. Will the Eagles continue to succeed with the controversial play?

If any of the above quotes are used, credit "Get Up" and H/T Sportskeeda.