“You either win or you learn,” said Jalen Hurts after losing the Super Bowl LVII to the Chiefs in 2023. It reflected in his poise on Sunday, January 12 during the wildcard game against the Packers. With 13 of 21 passes (61.9% completion rate) in 131 yards and 2 touchdowns with zero interceptions, he was calm during the storm. During his time away from the field, the Eagles QB has been finding new things to motivate himself. And what’s better than a rivalry?

During the post-game conference, he talked about the influence of 129-year-old college football history between the Alabama Crimson Tide football team and Georgia Bulldogs football. While talking about his mindset, the QB said, “I think that’s had a great influence on our defense because there’s always confidence. There’s always an intensity there and a swagger about themselves. And I think that feeds throughout the whole defense. And I think it’s very similar to all the guys that come from Alabama and the SEC.” He learned about the rivalry during his free time and was impressed by the swagger of the Bulldogs’ defense and the mentality of Alabama’s offense.

Jalen Hurts found something unique and powerful. Starting on November 2, 1895, as the Bulldogs won 30-6, the rivalry has titled both sides. But the Crimson Tide has dominated, winning 44 while the Bulldogs have 26 victories. 4 games have ended in a tie. However, the Eagles QB’s swagger and mindset showed in those 8 games between 2009 and 2023 when one of both teams ranked in the top 3.

When Crimson Tide faced Bulldogs last played on September 29, 2024, it was a game fought till the end. Alabama rallied their offense from the first quarter itself and took the 30-7 lead at halftime. But Georgia made a fiery back, scoring 19 points in the 4th quarter. But they lost by 34-41.

The Eagles QB showed the same approach in their wildcard matchup against the Packers. With a dominant O-line and defense applying pressure on Jordan Love, they took a 10-0 lead at halftime. Their spirits were high from the kickoff itself.

Jalen Hurts applauds his rookie’s achievement

Till the very end, the Eagles’ defense applied pressure. At 1:57 mark in the 4th quarter, rookie CB Quinyon Mitchell made a stunning interception on Jordan Love’s deep pass to the WR Bo Melton. What a game he chose to make his first pick of the NFL season. Even Jalen Hurts was impressed as he said, “I owe Quinyon something for his first pick.” That’s right.

The rookie’s interception finished any comeback hope left in their rivals. Completing 6 tackles in his first NFL playoff game, Mitchell provided great support to his teammates. He has done well in 16 games as a starter this year, recording 46 tackles (37 solo) and 12 passes defended.

After his first interceptions, the rookie celebrated with a botched-up pedigree move on his fellow CB Copper DeJean. WWE legend Triple H took to X and warned everyone about his finisher move by tweeting, “Don’t try this at home.” It was a great show on the gridiron.

Their focus is on the divisional game next week. It would be intense and exciting. Stay tuned for stories about your favorite NFL superstars.