It’s four games into the 2025 NFL season, and the Philadelphia Eagles are still flying high. With a 31-25 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, the reigning Super Bowl champions improved to 4-0, proving once again that they remain the team to beat in the NFL.
A year ago, when the Eagles last left Tampa Bay, they looked like a broken team. Fast forward to now, they’re 20-1 since that moment and continue to find ways to win, even when they’re not playing their sharpest football.
Facing a Buccaneers team that also entered the contest undefeated at 3-0, Philadelphia managed to set the tone early. Their special teams ignited the scoring with a blocked punt return for a touchdown, and from there, the offence leaned on Jalen Hurts’ passing arm. Hurts opened the game, completing 10 of his first 11 throws, eventually connecting with tight end Dallas Goedert for two touchdowns.
Saquon Barkley also added to the highlight reel with a clever fake “tush push,” breaking outside for an easy score that stretched the Eagles’ lead to 31-13 in the third quarter. By halftime, Philadelphia held a commanding 24-6 advantage, and it felt like the game was all but over.
The Buccaneers, however, made an effort to claw back into the game. Baker Mayfield delivered two deep touchdown strikes, one to rookie Emeka Egbuka and another to Bucky Irving, while Chase McLaughlin drilled a record-setting 65-yard field goal to keep things interesting. But when the Buccaneers needed one last drive to pull off a comeback, the Eagles’ defence slammed the door shut with a timely sack.
Hurts finished with 130 passing yards, 62 rushing yards, and two touchdowns, extending his personal winning streak to 18 straight games as a starter. Despite moments of inconsistency, the Eagles once again did enough to close out a tough opponent.
The scariest part? They’re still not playing their best football. And if history is any indicator, they’re only going to get stronger as the season goes on.
Read Also: Falcons Fire WR Coach Ike Hilliard After 30-0 Loss to Panthers, T.J. Yates to Take Over Duties
Eagles Suffer Brutal Injury Setback After Beating Buccaneers in NFL Week 4
The win in Tampa wasn’t without a cost. According to multiple reports, outside linebacker Ogbo Okoronkwo likely suffered a torn triceps during the game, an injury that could sideline him for the rest of the season.
While Okoronkwo hasn’t been a starter, he has played a crucial depth role on the defensive line. His absence is especially tough given the Eagles are already without Nolan Smith, who is on injured reserve with a similar triceps issue. Philadelphia may be forced to explore outside options to bolster its pass rush depth in the weeks ahead.
Last season with the Cleveland Browns, the 30-year-old Okoronkwo posted 23 tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble. His experience and ability to rotate in fresh legs made him a valuable piece in Philadelphia’s defensive front. Losing him now leaves head coach Nick Sirianni with a challenging hole to fill on a unit that thrives on relentless pressure.
Still, with their record at 4-0 and momentum building, the Eagles have shown they can withstand adversity. The injury sting is real, but the defending champions continue to soar above the competition. They’ll look to keep the streak alive when they host the Denver Broncos next Sunday.
Read Also: 49ers Star Nick Bosa Suffers Season-Ending ACL Tear in Team’s NFL Week 3 Victory Over the Cardinals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are the Eagles really the best team in the NFL right now?
With a 4-0 record and a 20-1 run since last season, it’s hard to argue otherwise. Even when they aren’t at their best, the Eagles are finding ways to beat strong opponents like the Chiefs, Rams, and now the Buccaneers.
How did the Eagles manage to stay unbeaten against the Buccaneers?
Philadelphia set the tone early with a blocked punt returned for a touchdown, then leaned on Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley to build a big lead. Even though Tampa Bay rallied late, the Eagles’ defence came up with the key stop they needed to secure the win.
What was Jalen Hurts’ performance like in Week 4?
Hurts started hot, completing 10 of his first 11 passes, and finished with 130 passing yards, 62 rushing yards, and two touchdowns. While the offence cooled off in the second half, his early efficiency helped put Philadelphia in control.
How serious is Ogbo Okoronkwo’s injury?
Reports suggest Okoronkwo suffered a torn triceps, which could sideline him for the rest of the 2025 season. That’s a big blow to Philadelphia’s defensive depth, especially since they’re already thin at edge rusher with Nolan Smith also on injured reserve.
Who do the Eagles play next after beating the Buccaneers?
Philadelphia will return home in Week 5 to host the Denver Broncos. It’s another chance for the Eagles to stay unbeaten and continue proving why they’re the team to beat in the league.