Philadelphia Eagles: Sam Bradford Survives First Game Since 2013

In his first NFL action since the 2013 season, Sam Bradford finally returned to the football field with the Philadelphia Eagles, helping lead a decisive 40-17 victory for the birds in midnight green. Fans at Lincoln Financial Field were relieved to see Bradford out in pads after Head Coach Chip Kelly held him out of the first preseason game.

Bradford showed everything Chip Kelly was looking for in a quarterback: a quick release, laser beam accuracy and the on-field leadership to drive down the field. While he only played one series, Bradford finished 3-5 with 35 passing yards. That drive was topped off by a Ryan Matthews 14 yards rushing touchdown.

The biggest fear fans at the Linc held was whether or not Bradford could take a hit. The former first overall pick relieved them of their fears when he took two major hits, one to his chest and a vicious one to those glass knees of his from Terrell Suggs.

After the game, Bradford said he was glad he could recover from his first NFL hits since 2013:

"“Glad my knee was able to take that hit”"

Aug 22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) tackles Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) late and is called for a penalty during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Overall, Bradford responded well to Kelly’s unconventional, hurry-up system. He spread the ball out well, sharing it with receivers Jordan Matthews and Darren Sproles. The speedy Sproles got a lot of underneath receptions, but turned on the after-burners to get those precious yards after the catch. He finished with 15 yards on three targets, while the sophomore second round pick Matthews had a big 15-yard catch to add to his 20 yard box score.

Bradford was certainly not the only big name quarterback on the field for the Eagles Saturday night. Mark Sanchez got the bulk of the work load, going 14-20 with 118 passing yards. Third year back-up Matt Barkley handed the third quarter duties, completing six passes for 86 yards.

Of course, the “star” of the night was Tim Tebow; at least in the eyes of his supporters. The former Heisman trophy winner completed just two passes, but used his legs effectively. A big 26 yard run highlighted Tebow’s night, while what was believed to be a rushing touchdown was called back after replay showed the ball didn’t cross the plane. He finished with 31 rushing yards, which is what Chip will want to see from him in the goal-line situations.

The Eagles will head to Green Bay next week, where barring any “Legionnaires’ disease” (direct quote from the always entertaining Chip Kelly press conference) Bradford should see a decent amount of playing time.

Now, lets see if he can get those knees blessed when the Pope comes to town.

Next: Eagles v. Ravens Second Half Observations