Eagles making it tough for Giants so far

Eagles fans hadn't seen a 7-0 lead since the Nov. 13 Atlanta game, hadn't seen a 14-0 lead since the season opener against Cleveland.

So, even though it was too late to mean anything in terms of making the playoffs, the two quick first-quarter touchdowns by the home team Thursday night were greeted with much enthusiasm in South Philadelphia, the Eagles going to halftime ahead 21-13.

Just as was the case Sunday in Baltimore, the Eagles' offensive line blew huge holes in a defense known for stopping the run, at least for the evening's first series. Ryan Mathews went 17 yards behind returning right tackle Lane Johnson on the Eagles' first snap, and Darren Sproles, back from a concussion, ran 25 yards for a TD to the same side.

Then, Malcolm Jenkins took an Eli Manning interception 34 yards, and the 5-9 Eagles had a real toehold on ending their five-game losing streak. Also in gaining their first NFC East victory of the season.

The Giants got a couple of 35-yard field goals, But Nelson Agholor – yes, Nelson Agholor – got behind Eli Apple for a 40-yard touchdown pass from Carson Wentz. Agholor made up for an earlier drop, Wentz for an earlier interception after a lengthy scramble. It was 21-6.

But the 10-4 Giants, who can clinch a playoff berth with a victory, looked quite sharp on their final possession of the half, moving 84 yards in 12 plays, ending with a 13-yard Manning touchdown pass to Sterling Shepard that set the halftime score.

Wentz went into halftime 8 for 14 for 108 yards, the pick and the TD.

Manning was 16 for 27 for 161, a TD and a pick.

The Eagles' reprise of their original starting offensive line lasted only a few series. Left guard Allen Barbre reinjured his hamstring and was replaced by Stefen Wisniewski.