1. Eagles’ Defense Made The Difference

The Eagles’ offense struggled to put up points in this game. Carson Wentz had to try to run keep the 49ers’ pass rushers from taking him down without having much time to take shots downfield. From offense alone, Philadelphia’s 18 points wouldn’t have been enough.

Facing a 14-11 disadvantage in the fourth quarter, the Eagles’ defense strip sacked Nick Mullens and recovered possessions. Philadelphia’s offense needed that boost and took advantage of the favorable starting field position— scoring a touchdown on a 42-yard drive.

All of a sudden, it was 18-14 with the Eagles in the lead. Philadelphia just needed to do enough against an underwhelming 49ers offense that was led by a backup quarterback.

The Eagles’ defense picked Mullens off and ran it back for a touchdown midway through the final period. The 49ers had enough with their poor quarterback play and went with their third-string option. At that point, Philadelphia already had the game too out of reach.