A.J. Brown Scores Late TD, But Philadelphia Eagles Trail Washington Commanders at Halftime

The Philadelphia Eagles were challenged by the Washington Commanders in the first half on Sunday, but responded late.

The Washington Commanders might just have the Philadelphia Eagles' number, something that was on display once again in the first half of the latest meeting between the two NFC East foes on Sunday at FedEx Field.

The Eagles, who are coming off a 31-17 win in Week 7 in which they held an elite Miami Dolphins offense in check, trailed Washington 17-10 at halftime after being unable to stop a Commanders offense that scored just seven points a week prior in a loss to the New York Giants.

An incredible one-handed 16-yard touchdown grab from Eagles receiver A.J. Brown in the final minute of the second quarter stopped the bleeding and seemed to change momentum headed into halftime, but Commanders kicker Joey Slye nailed a 61-yard field goal with one second left to tilt the energy in Washington's favor.

Despite the new trade addition of safety Kevin Byard and a defense that's its healthiest this season, Commanders quarterback Sam Howell had his way against an elite Eagles defense in the first half. He went an impressive 20 of 22 passing for 190 yards, two touchdowns and no picks. He found receivers Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson for touchdowns of 26 and 21 yards, respectively.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) prepares to pass the ball as Washington Commanders defensive end Montez Sweat (90) chases during the first quarter at FedExField / © Geoff Burke, USA TODAY

Jalen Hurts and the Eagles offense didn't help matters. Hurts was solid, finishing the first half 20 of 25 passing for 179 yards and one touchdown, but the unit got off to a slow start that featured an opening three-and-out and an eventual 51-yard field goal from Jake Elliott after the second drive stalled. Despite the three points on the board, things only got worse on the third drive, as running back Kenneth Gainwell lost a fumble on the Washington three-yard line while the Eagles trailed 14-3 in the second quarter.

But luckily for Philly, Brown is continuing his torrid stretch. He finished the first half with six catches for 88 yards and the touchdown. He was the only consistent weapon for the offense in the first two quarters.

The Eagles will look to add to the momentum when they receive the second-half kickoff.