The Philadelphia Eagles have plenty to evaluate after falling behind the Baltimore Ravens 7-0 at halftime Saturday night. With most of Philadelphia's top players sitting out, the preseason opener has been an opportunity for players competing for roster spots to make their cases. Through two quarters, the Eagles have struggled to generate much offensively.
Andy Dalton started at quarterback and completed 3 of 6 passes for 20 yards before giving way to Tanner McKee. McKee completed 5 of 7 attempts for 29 yards, giving the Eagles 49 passing yards on 13 attempts. Philadelphia's offense has managed only 81 total yards and two first downs through 30 minutes. The Eagles have been particularly ineffective on third down, going 0-for-5, while averaging just 3.7 yards per play.
The running game has not provided much relief. Will Shipley leads Philadelphia with 25 yards on six carries, while Tank Bigsby has five yards on two attempts. The Eagles have totaled only 32 rushing yards.
There have been some positive moments. Darius Cooper leads the team with two catches for 21 yards, while Britain Covey also has two receptions. The Eagles have avoided turnovers, and Kelee Ringo came away with an interception on defense. Philadelphia's defense has allowed Baltimore to generate 233 yards, including 187 through the air, but it has also created the game's only turnover. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has five tackles, while Mac McWilliams leads the defense with six.
The Eagles have another half to find offensive rhythm, evaluate McKee, and create more pressure on Baltimore's young quarterbacks.
The score matters less than the evaluation, but Philadelphia has plenty to clean up.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Takeaways: Eagles offense searching for answers at halftime vs. Ravens