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Just now: Eagles stun Bengals in NFL preseason opener! Tanner McKee leads strong offense as Jalen Hurts sits. Key takeaways, TV info & roster updates.
PHILADELPHIA — Breaking Today, August 8, 2025:
The Philadelphia Eagles launched their 2025 NFL preseason with a commanding 26-10 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals at Lincoln Financial Field, sending a clear message to the league. With Jalen Hurts resting on the sideline, all eyes turned to backup quarterback Tanner McKee — and the 24-year-old delivered. Fans were treated to an early taste of what this year’s Eagles game blueprint might look like. Whether you’re checking the Eagles schedule 2025, tuning in tonight, or wondering what channel the Eagles game is on, this one set the tone for the season.
Let’s break down the highlights from this thrilling Eagles vs Bengals preseason showdown.
Tanner McKee Takes Flight — And the QB2 Job?
In just his second year, Tanner McKee looked like a seasoned pro. The former Stanford quarterback went 15-of-19 for 173 yards and a touchdown, outshining Joe Burrow’s backups and positioning himself as the clear frontrunner for QB2. With Marcus Mariota no longer in Philly, McKee’s steady pocket presence and accuracy thrilled fans and coaches alike.
“I’ve been preparing all offseason for this moment,” McKee said postgame. “It felt good to execute.”
Is McKee the future beyond Jalen Hurts? Not yet. But Thursday night showed why he’s much more than just a preseason arm.
Defense Dominates — Kelee Ringo’s Statement Game
Rookie cornerback Kelee Ringo made his presence felt in a big way. The 2023 fourth-round pick, now fighting for a starting role, snagged an interception in the second quarter and nearly had a second. His agility and anticipation helped limit Cincinnati’s offense to just 210 total yards.
Head Coach Nick Sirianni praised Ringo’s growth:
“He’s playing faster, reading better, and trusting his instincts. That pick was textbook.”
The entire Eagles defense looked sharp — with three sacks, a forced fumble, and lockdown coverage throughout.
Where to Watch Eagles vs Bengals Replays & Upcoming Games
If you missed tonight’s Eagles preseason game, don’t worry. NFL Network will re-air the full broadcast Friday at 3 p.m. ET. For how to watch Eagles preseason games live moving forward, check local listings for NBC10 Philadelphia, NFL+, and streaming platforms like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV.
Next game in the Eagles preseason schedule:
🗓 August 15 vs. New York Jets
📺 NFL Network & NBC10
🕘 7:30 p.m. ET
For Bengals preseason viewers, the team heads back to Cincinnati to face the Colts next Friday.
Joe Burrow Watch: Still No Return Date Set
Joe Burrow didn’t suit up for the Bengals game tonight, still recovering from a minor hamstring strain sustained during training camp. Though team officials say there’s “no long-term concern,” fans are growing anxious. Jake Browning and Trevor Siemian split reps but failed to gain rhythm.
Without their star QB, Cincinnati Bengals fans were left wondering how their offense will hold up in case of a deeper injury into the regular season.
Jalen Hurts All Smiles as Eagles Roster Steps Up
While Jalen Hurts didn’t play, he was locked in on the sideline — coaching up younger teammates, clapping after big plays, and showing leadership that has defined his career. The Eagles roster gave him plenty to cheer for.
Standout players included:
- RB Kenneth Gainwell — 7 carries, 52 yards
- WR Quez Watkins — 4 catches, 61 yards
- DE Derek Barnett — 1.5 sacks
- LB Nolan Smith — 5 tackles, 1 forced fumble
Hurts postgame: “It’s not just about me. This team is deep, hungry, and ready to fly.”
📊 Key Takeaways: Eagles vs Bengals Preseason Opener
- Final Score: Eagles 26, Bengals 10
- Tanner McKee: 15/19, 173 yards, 1 TD
- Kelee Ringo: 1 INT, 2 passes defended
- Total Yards: Eagles 328 – Bengals 210
- Turnovers Forced: Eagles 2, Bengals 0
- Sacks: Eagles 3, Bengals 1
- Next Game: Eagles vs Jets – August 15
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Preseason or Not This Team Means Business
Though it’s early, NFL preseason games offer a window into a team’s depth, strategy, and leadership. The Eagles game tonight proved Philly is not just riding the high of last season — they’re building a new foundation for a Super Bowl run. With Hurts healthy, McKee emerging, and a young defense maturing fast, this is a roster that’s ready to make noise.
The Cincinnati Bengals vs Philadelphia Eagles preseason clash may not count in the standings, but it revealed plenty about both teams’ trajectories — and why the Eagles are ones to watch this season.
🖋️ Author Bio:
Alex Grant is a senior NFL correspondent with over 10 years covering the Philadelphia Eagles and AFC North. His work has appeared in Bleacher Report, The Athletic, and NFL.com. A die-hard Eagles fan, Alex brings passion and analysis to every game breakdown.
Reference
Here are some reputable news sources covering the Eagles–Bengals preseason game and related storylines:
- Reuters (Field Level Media): Coverage of Tanner McKee’s standout performance—252 passing yards, three first-half touchdowns, and leading the Eagles to a 34–27 win over the Bengals.(Reuters)
- Cincy Jungle: Focuses on Joe Burrow’s efficient preseason showing—completing 9 of 10 passes with two touchdowns, and Ja’Marr Chase’s sharp receiving performance.(cincyjungle.com)
- AS (Spanish coverage): Highlights the Eagles’ energized preseason start, McKee’s rushing touchdown, and scoring drives by players like Ainias Smith and Darius Cooper.(Diario AS)
