Category: Sports Daily

For over 20 years, at three locations, former Daily News sportswriters Ed Barkowitz and Mike Kern have made the Christmas season special in South Philly in their other roles as guest bartenders.

Here’s the thing: The good vibes have nothing to do with the drinks they were slinging (well, somewhat, as someone who has attended a few), but everything to do with what the event’s proceeds ensured.

Scores of kids from the neighborhood would have something to open under the tree.

Friday will mark the 23rd time their annual toy drive takes place, now at Wolf Burger on Front and Wolf Streets. In place of Kern will be fellow former Daily News sports scribe Bob Cooney, but Barkowitz, who has used his platform and notoriety at the paper for good, is scheduled to attend, doing what he does best: anything for the kids.

Inquirer reporter Matt Breen is first up on this frigid Thursday, delivering the holiday cheer with this fantastic story.

Also, could securing athletes with multiyear deals be the key to retaining top talent for college programs outside the Power Four? Temple thinks so, and might be on to something.

— Kerith Gabriel, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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❓What’s your favorite holiday sports-themed tradition? Email us back for a chance to be featured in the newsletter.

Rebound jawn

It’s been a rough few weeks for the Eagles, but surely the end has to be near by way of the visiting Las Vegas Raiders, a team that enters 2-11 and hasn’t won a game since October.

Right?

Well, that remains to be seen, and it’s too early to assume, especially after the Eagles were in a similar situation in the 2023 season in what looked to be a surefire win against the Arizona Cardinals that turned into anything but.

So what do we know about these Raiders, next up in a Week 15 matchup for the Birds at the Linc on Sunday (1 p.m., Fox29)? Inquirer writer Olivia Reiner offers this look.

What we’re …

🙏🏾 Hoping: Philly soccer fans looking for World Cup tickets are successful in obtaining some through this latest FIFA presale lottery, which opens today.

🤔 Wondering: With Pittsburgh up next, what, if anything, did Villanova learn in its blowout loss against Michigan this week?

👀 Watching: This fan’s hilarious interaction with Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown in the latest episode of HBO’s Hard Knocks.

⚾ Reading: Who is Zach McCambley, the Rule 5 pitching prospect the Phillies are high on?

Efficiency, meet consistency

Paul George and Joel Embiid want to be more efficient on the basketball court. First, they need to be on the court together more than they have this season.

The pair have played only two games together, and in those games, Embiid averaged 17 points while shooting 28.5%. Meanwhile, George averaged 14 points on 36% shooting.

So what’s the secret to upping those numbers as two of the top names on the roster?

“Just keep at it,” George says. “Keep getting opportunities on the floor together. Keep presenting healthy … and continue to keep logging minutes.”

The Inquirer’s Keith Pompey looks at the general plan and how soon the duo might get their opportunity.

What’s next for the Phillies?

The Phillies’ contingent left Disney World on Wednesday with more clarity than when it arrived. After signing Kyle Schwarber to a five-year, $150 million deal during the winter meetings, the Phillies now have a better sense of direction for the rest of their offseason.

And now, instead of worrying about contingency plans to fill a Schwarber-sized hole in the lineup, the Phillies can focus their attention on other areas of need.

With his third child due any day now, Schwarber returned to the Phillies with a new contract. He’s hoping J.T. Realmuto does the same.

The Phillies selected three players in the Rule 5 draft on Wednesday, including a pitcher they think can make the team in 2026.

Fits like a glove?

When the Flyers secured Christian Dvorak during the first day of NHL free agency in July, he was primarily viewed as a potential midseason trade option if need be.

Not so fast.

Just 28 games into the season, the 29-year-old center has 19 points and is on pace to finish with 56. A big part? His developing relationship with Trevor Zegras and Travis Konecny, on the Flyers’ top line. His play hasn’t gone unnoticed as coach Rick Tocchet noted: “He saw the opportunity here with our situation, and I think that he’s grabbing it.”

The Inquirer’s Jackie Spiegel has more on Dvorak and his upside.

On this date

Dec. 11, 1981: Boxing legend Muhammad Ali entered the ring for the final time, culminating a 21-year career with a loss by unanimous decision to Trevor Berbick in the Bahamas. Ali’s first fight? Oct. 29, 1960, when he was still known as Cassius Clay.

Mike Sielski’s take …

We’re getting to the point where removing Hurts and inserting Tanner McKee would be helpful, just to create a control in this ugly experiment that is the Eagles offense. Read this latest from Sielski here.

What you’re saying about the Phillies

We asked: What was your reaction to the Phillies re-signing Kyle Schwarber and extending manager Rob Thomson?

Wise decision. [J.T.] Realmuto should be next, since the Phillies have no backup plans — Bill M.

I love Schwarber and agree that the Phillies really needed to re-sign him. On the practical side, I can’t see Kyle hitting 50-plus homers four or five years from now. I think the players like Topper, and maybe that is good, but I can’t see him managing a team to a WS win. In that tragic inning at Dodger Stadium when Kerkering tossed the ball over JT [Realmuto’s] head, Rob should have been out there before that, reviewing all the options with his players. He did not, but Dave Roberts would have. — Everett S.

Absolutely thrilled about Schwarber. So so about Thomson. When he’s good, he’s really good. But he’s often not good. I am hoping for re-signings from Realmuto and Suarez. In a perfect world, that would happen. — Kathy T.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Matt Breen, Olivia Reiner, Ryan Mack, Henry Savage, Jeff Neiburg, Jackie Spiegel, Lochlahn March, Scott Lauber, Keith Pompey, and Mike Sielski.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

That’s what I have for you today. Stay warm, and we’ll see you tomorrow. — Kerith

It has been 22 days since the Eagles last won a game. It has been a lot longer than that since they last felt good about their offense.

On the positive side, at 8-4, they can move a step closer to clinching the NFC East with a road victory this evening against the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football. Still, the Eagles are struggling and the vibes on the sideline reflect a team that is trying hard to correct its issues without success, Jeff Neiburg writes.

“Honestly I think it’s been awful,” Saquon Barkley said when asked what the sideline energy has been like. “I think if you asked anybody, if they’re being honest, we’ll all agree on that.” Maybe Barkley and the running game can lead the charge in changing those vibes.

And maybe the offense could finally get untracked if Jalen Hurts ran the ball more. Designed runs have become rarities for Hurts in his fifth season as the Eagles’ starting quarterback. He has gotten hurt both in and out of the pocket throughout his NFL career, which has caused him to miss games. The threat of injuries figures into the equation, but the offense gets a jolt when he runs the ball.

It’s unlikely the Eagles will suddenly have a high-powered offense at this late stage, Jeff McLane writes in his keys to the game. There is room for improvement and one way to address that is having Hurts run more.

The defense must get the job done without Jalen Carter, who is out after undergoing a medical procedure on both shoulders. Carter’s absence figures into the predictions from our writers on how things will pan out in California. Not everyone’s picking the Eagles, either.

How can the defense turn things around? The Eagles will need a huge game from edge rushers Nolan Smith, Jaelan Phillips, and Jalyx Hunt, David Murphy writes.

Here’s everything you need to know before Hurts and the Birds face Justin Herbert and the Chargers for the first time since 2021.

Maybe this completely different take on the game could calm the nerves of some Eagles fans: ESPN2 will offer a real-time animated broadcast of Eagles-Chargers set in the universe of Disney/Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. franchise. The alt-cast will use real-time player tracking data to place Barkley, Hurts, and the rest of the Eagles in the animated Monsters universe.

— Jim Swan, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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Upbeat in defeat

The Colorado Avalanche came into Xfinity Mobile Arena with an NHL-best 20-2-6 record, but the Flyers held their own Sunday in a 3-2 loss.

“Some people use games as measuring sticks, and I think we don’t need to do that anymore,” Travis Konecny said. “We’ve shown we can compete with the best teams, so why not start believing that we should be right there with them?”

‘I’m not done yet’

There was a promising Paul George sighting for the Sixers in their victory over the Bucks on Friday night. George finished with 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists in just under 30 minutes. Even after knee surgery and an injury-riddled first season as a Sixer, he has shown flashes of the player who became a perennial All-Star.

“I feel like myself again,” George said. “I believe I’m not done yet.”

On Sunday, George scored 12 points during the Sixers’ 112-108 loss to the Lakers. Beat reporter Keith Pompey provides his takeaways.

Back on top

Villanova came up short in the first two iterations of the Big 5 Classic, but the Wildcats left no doubt as they closed the tournament’s tripleheader Saturday night at Xfinity Mobile Arena. They beat Penn, 90-63, in the finale and won their three Big 5 games by an average margin of 20 points.

Now they’ll take a big step up in competition. Next up for 7-1 Villanova is a showdown with unbeaten Michigan on Tuesday night in Ann Arbor. “We have a big test Tuesday because I think, by far, they’re playing the best basketball in the country,” Wildcats coach Kevin Willard said.

The loss to ’Nova was a costly one for Penn, as star forward Ethan Roberts was taken to the hospital after leaving the game with a injury.

On the women’s side, Villanova earned the Big 5 championship with a 76-70 win against St. Joseph’s behind 21 points from Brynn McCurry.

Heading for Yankee Stadium

Penn State will close a tumultuous season with a date against Clemson in the Pinstripe Bowl. The Dec. 27 game at Yankee Stadium will close a chapter on Nittany Lions football before new coach Matt Campbell takes over. Clemson (7-5, 4-4 Atlantic Coast Conference) has seen its own ups and downs this season, but the Tigers won six of their last eight games to earn bowl eligibility.

In the Football Championship Subdivision, Villanova advanced to the quarterfinals with a 14-7 upset of Lehigh.

Join us before kickoff

Live from SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif.: Beat writers Jeff McLane and Olivia Reiner will preview tonight’s Eagles game against the Los Angeles Chargers at 6:45 p.m. Tune in to Gameday Central.

Sports snapshot

• La Salle’s leader: Notre Dame-bound Joey O’Brien lifted the Explorers past Pittsburgh Central Catholic for the PIAA Class 6A state championship.
• Roman rules: Roman Catholic beat Harrisburg’s Bishop McDevitt for the PIAA Class 5A title, the first football state championship in school history.
• Coming to the Linc: Brazil and France headline the teams coming to Philadelphia for next year’s World Cup.

On this date

Dec. 8, 1987: Flyers rookie Ron Hextall became the first NHL goaltender to score a goal. Hextall scored an empty-netter in a 5-2 victory against the Boston Bruins at the Spectrum.

Marcus Hayes’ take

Now that the drop-off in Jalen Carter’s play in 2025 compared with 2024 has been explained by his deteriorating shoulders, the responsibility for a late-season surge falls more squarely on the shoulders of embattled quarterback Jalen Hurts.

He’s got to throw better passes. He’s got to run the offense more efficiently. He’s got to start using his legs as a weapon, because the main weapon on defense is gone.

Hurts has been a problem all season. Hurts can turn that narrative around Monday night, and beyond.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Jeff Neiburg, Olivia Reiner, Jeff McLane, David Murphy, Owen Hewitt, Jackie Spiegel, Keith Pompey, Marcus Hayes, Jonathan Tannenwald, Devin Jackson, Greg Finberg, Dylan Johnson, and Katie Lewis.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

Thank you for reading Sports Daily. I’ll see you in Tuesday’s newsletter. — Jim

It’s been a weird week for Eagles offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo.

Much of the talk hasn’t been about a two-game losing skid that weighs somewhat heavily on the effectiveness of the Birds’ defense, but more on the breakfast favorite smashed all over his house after the Eagles’ latest loss to the Bears on Black Friday.

As an investigation continues into the crew caught on camera egging Patullo’s Moorestown home on Sunday, Patullo noted Wednesday that while he’s upset that this has affected his home life, he wants to “move on” from it all and focus solely on Monday’s game against the Chargers (8:15 p.m., ESPN).

“As coaches and players, we all know that part of our job is to handle criticism. … But when it involves your family, it obviously crosses the line,” he said. “At this point, we’ve just got to move on. We’re trying to win. That’s all we want to do is focus.”

As a member of the Eagles coaching staff since 2021, Patullo doesn’t intend to run from the situation either, making it clear that he’ll still be conducting the offense from the sideline.

“I’ve been on the field for a long, long time. I don’t think I’ve been in the [coaches’] box since maybe 2011 as a coach,” Patullo said. “So it’s been a while … we’ve just got to continue to improve in other areas, and we’ll be all right.”

Speaking of the Chargers ahead of Monday’s matchup, here’s an early look at what we know and are still waiting to learn.

We’re not expected to get out of the 30s on what’s expected to be a partly cloudy Thursday across the region. Bundle up. 🧣

— Kerith Gabriel, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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Trevor time?

The Flyers are off to a surprisingly strong start, and Trevor Zegras deserves a lot of credit. The offseason acquisition leads the team with 26 points and looks to have his once-promising star back on track thanks in part to a happier new environment.

But Zegras, a restricted free agent at the end of the season, will need a new contract. How much will it cost the Flyers? Jackie Spiegel writes that the team would be better off getting something done soon.

Speaking of Zegras, the Flyers will need more offense from him with Tyson Foerster out long-term. He’s not the only one who will be counted on for more.

What we’re …

🤔 Wondering: Who’s buying Joel Embiid’s latest signature shoe, created by Skechers?

⚽ Suggesting: The teams that would be favorable to watch the U.S. men’s national team take on in next summer’s FIFA World Cup.

😲 Witnessing: The largest assembly of Temple football recruits after yesterday’s NCAA early signing period.

👀 Watching: La Salle guard Truth Harris discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the NCAA’s transfer portal.

🏀 Reading: How effectively Sixers guard Jabari Walker is seizing his moment in Philadelphia.

The latest Sixers fine …

The 76ers’ season has centered on juggling injury issues, and the franchise has intimated that threading that yarn has become complicated at times. Most recently, Joel Embiid was listed as out for Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Hawks and then subsequently played in their double-overtime loss. In response, the team was fined $100,000 as the NBA said the Sixers “failed to accurately disclose the game availability status” of Embiid before the matchup.

Young hitters to watch in 2026

In 2025, the Phillies had the second-oldest lineup in baseball.

Collectively, the average age of Phillies hitters was 30.3 years old, ranking only behind the Dodgers’ 30.7. That number only stands to increase when their core reports to Clearwater, Fla., another year older in February — that is, unless the Phillies see an injection of youth. Which, according to president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski, is the plan.

There are several Phillies prospects poised to make their debuts this season. Here’s a breakdown of the position players on the farm most likely to make a major league impact in 2026.

Pulling the strings

As the Union bid farewell to 2025 Wednesday during their last news conference of the year, they shed some light on who’s going to be responsible for player movement, with sporting director Ernst Tanner embroiled in an ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct.

It’s not one person, but four, as the Union’s technical and academy leadership will collaborate to find the pieces that fit heading into next season, while keeping the ones they have happy. Their first order of business? Announcing the signing of Ghanaian forward Ezekiel Alladoh, the club’s latest record signing fee.

There’s more on Alladoh and the Union’s moves going forward.

Speaking of soccer, the FIFA World Cup draw in Washington is a day away. For more on what it is and what to expect from our team in the nation’s capital, follow the Inquirer’s complete coverage of the Beautiful Game.

On this date

Dec. 4, 1943: Major League Baseball commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis is credited with integrating Black players into MLB’s entire system, from the Big Show down to the minor leagues.

Marcus Hayes’ take …

“You might use the tireless excuse that [Eagles offensive coordinator Kevin] Patullo’s home was violated by that vague minority of so-called supporters intent on perpetuating the stereotype of Philly fans being venomous cretins who would gladly eat their own.

But how many of those fans — your friends and neighbors — dismissed this act of vandalism as “boys being boys?” How many shook their heads and said, “That’s too bad, but fire his butt anyway?”

How many? Too many.

Read Hayes’ complete column here.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Olivia Reiner, Jeff Neiburg, Jonathan Tannenwald, Jackie Spiegel, Keith Pompey, Lochlahn March, Devin Jackson, Ryan Mack, Kerith Gabriel, and Gina Mizell.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

That’s it for me. Enjoy today, and we’ll be back in your inbox tomorrow to get you ready for the weekend. Be good. — Kerith

All is not lost. Many of the Eagles’ followers are distraught after two straight defeats (see “Fans are flustered” below), but the team remains in first place in the NFC East at 8-4.

The fans need to take a deep breath, look at the Eagles’ remaining schedule, and hope that Nick Sirianni and his staff get things straightened out to make another playoff run.

The top seeds in the NFC, the 9-3 Bears, have a challenging schedule in their last five games. The Eagles could be facing a Chargers team without Justin Herbert, then they’ll play the lowly Raiders and a tough road game against the Bills sandwiched by two Commanders games. Of course, the loss to the Giants this season proves that the Eagles can be beaten by anyone.

If the season ended now, the Eagles would be seeded third in the conference. Jeff Neiburg examines their chances of gaining the NFC’s top seed and the bye that goes with it. The odds are not great, but the Birds control their own destiny when it comes to the NFC East.

Sirianni said Monday that the team has been evaluating everything since the Black Friday loss to Chicago. “We all have to look internally and get better,” said the coach, who also said that the embattled Kevin Patullo will remain as the play-caller.

Maybe it’s the fact that Herbert had surgery scheduled on his broken (non-throwing) hand, but the host Chargers opened as underdogs in the Monday Night Football game against the Eagles in Los Angeles.

— Jim Swan, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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Signs from the Big Three

Sunday marked the first time Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey have been on the floor together in a game this season. It also marked just the 19th game the trio played together since George signed his four-year, $211.5 million deal on July 6, 2024. There were some encouraging and not-so-encouraging signs from the loss to the Atlanta Hawks. The Inquirer’s Keith Pompey does a deep dive into Maxey’s high usage, George’s shot making, and Embiid’s mobility (or lack thereof).

What’s going on with TK?

Travis Konecny has been the Flyers’ best player for the past few seasons, as the right winger has led the team in scoring in four straight campaigns and five of the last six.

But while the Flyers have gotten off to a surprisingly strong start, Konecny is one of the few players who has yet to really click the way he has before. On pace for just 17 goals after averaging 29 over the last three seasons, Konecny says there is “more for me to give.”

But is the historically streaky Konecny due for a breakout in terms of scoring goals? Count Rick Tocchet among those who believe so.

The Flyers’ three-game winning streak was snapped in 5-1 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. The team also lost top scorer Tyson Foerster to an upper-body injury during the game.

Young arms to watch in 2026

The Phillies were pleased with the quality of Andrew Painter’s stuff and his velocity in 2025. But command is typically the last thing that returns to a pitcher after undergoing Tommy John elbow surgery, and that’s what Painter struggled with the most. He had a 5.40 ERA and issued 3.9 walks per nine innings at triple-A Lehigh Valley, and a call-up never arrived.

But Painter, their top pitching prospect, should make his long-awaited major league debut in 2026. And he might not be the only one. Let’s take a look at the Phillies’ pitching prospects who are the most likely to make a major league impact this season.

Fans are flustered

Many Eagles fans have had it after two straight losses in which the offense looked leaner than a picked-over turkey carcass. Someone lit up an electronic sign outside the Linc yesterday that said: “FIRE KEVIN PATULLO.” One fan even broke up with his girlfriend over the Birds, saying the Eagles have been playing badly ever since they got together. She agreed to stop talking to him until the end of the season.

Some fans take out their frustrations in the wrong way, though. Police in Moorestown said someone vandalized Patullo’s house early Saturday morning.

Marcus Hayes’ take

Jalen Hurts is a competent starter with a few special gifts. He is a tireless worker, a steady hand on the tiller, a fine runner, fearless, tough, accurate, with exquisite touch on deep passes. He is not the total package. To expect him to be so only courts disappointment.

Eagles first-year coordinator Kevin Patullo might not be calling all the best plays, and his sequencing might be imperfect, but the consensus among analysts and several Eagles sources is that Patullo’s not the problem. Hurts is missing wide-open receivers, sometimes missing multiple receivers on the same play, even when he’s not pressured.

🧠 Trivia time

Nick Sirianni has the best career winning percentage among Eagles coaches all-time at .700. Who is second at .594 (not including interim coaches)? First with the correct answer here will be featured in the newsletter.

A) Andy Reid

B) Greasy Neale

C) Rich Kotite

D) Buddy Ryan

Who said it?

The Eagles managed only 87 rushing yards in the loss to the Bears. Do you know which Birds player had this take? Click here to find out.

What you’re saying about this sports town

We asked: What do you think makes Philadelphia a great sports city? Among your responses:

It’s the City of Brotherly Love! Philadelphia and its fans are real — both are intense, passionate, loyal, and have always, always had an unwavering fan base. Philadelphia is in a league of their own; always have been, always will be. — Karen L.

Philly is all in on all sports … and not person by person. If the Eagles are up it’s all green all the time. If it’s the Phillies … it’s red October. When the Sixers are up — play the song. In Boston, if you’re a Sox fan you might be a Pats fan but not passionately. Chicago is similarly divided. SF is either Giants or Niners. Not here. We get behind the team that’s taking us to the promised land. But be sure you don’t underperform or we’ll eat your lunch. — Angelo D.

Obviously, the Washington Post works for Trump, Trump hates blue cities, Philly is a blue city, ergo Philly is not on the list. — Diane D.

Why? Because we love the Union! — Valerie M.

Every time I see a Philly sports team playing in some other city I always see more than one fan where a Phillies, Eagles, Flyers, college team in the stands wearing Philly team clothes. P.S. I love the Phillies Friday home uniforms. — Bill M.

A fairly recent great example of why Philly is a great sports town is how during Covid, when fans were not allowed in the stadium, a group of fans met outside the stadium for every home game and watched and cheered the Phillies through the gates. That’s fans who truly love their teams! — Bob A.

I have lived in Los Angeles/Orange County Calif., and now here in Arizona and have been to games in many cities and have never experienced the excitement and fan loyalty Philadelphia has in any other city or area. Maybe Philly doesn’t have the championships that NY and LA and Boston have, but it has a very special Philly feeling around the Eagles, Phillies, Sixers, Flyers, & Union that is unmatched anywhere. — Everett S.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Jeff Neiburg, Olivia Reiner, Jeff McLane, Gabriela Carroll, Lochlahn March, Keith Pompey, Jackie Spiegel, Marcus Hayes, and Ariel Simpson.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

Thanks for reading our newsletter. Bella will bring you Sports Daily on Wednesday. — Jim

Ask any Philadelphian and they will gladly tell you that the city is among the nation’s best when it comes to sports.

They’ll tell you that you won’t find a more passionate, knowledgeable, and, at times, unique fan base in the country.

The Washington Post disagrees.

The Post’s opinion section recently asked nine writers to name their top contenders for America’s top sports town. But Philly wasn’t one of them. So we asked nine of our own writers to make the case why Philadelphia is the best sports city in the nation — and they didn’t disappoint.

— Vaughn Johnson, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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❓What do you think makes Philadelphia a great sports city? Email us back for a chance to be featured in the newsletter.

The root cause of the Birds’ offensive struggles

It would be unfair to pin the Eagles’ 24-15 loss to the Chicago Bears on Jalen Hurts, even if his two turnovers and ineffectiveness as a passer were contributing factors.

Nick Sirianni and Kevin Patullo’s inability to scheme to the quarterback’s strengths, while also covering for his weaknesses, again was the primary reason for another inept showing from the offense. The same could be said for their game plan in the run game.

Jeff McLane examines why you can blame the listless Eagles offense on a number of causes. Just be sure not to forget the quarterback in your diagnosis.

Nick Foles’ diagnosis is for Patullo to move from the sidelines to the box, where he’s spent his time on gameday since 2021 before becoming offensive coordinator. Here’s what the national media is saying about the Birds following their loss to the Bears.

The Eagles also suffered a loss to their front office, as senior personnel director/advisor to the general manager David Caldwell is headed to the University of Florida to become the football program’s general manager.

Next: The Eagles (8-4) will travel to Los Angeles for a Monday night showdown against Justin Herbert and the Chargers (8-4) at SoFi Stadium. (8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN/ABC)

Should the Sixers trade Paul George?

The Paul George experience has not gone the way the Sixers thought when they signed him to a four-year, $212 million deal in the summer of 2024. Should the team try to move him ahead of the trade deadline?

Beat reporter Keith Pompey answers that question and more in his latest Sixers mailbag.

Meanwhile, the Sixers lost the Hawks in double overtime, 142-134, on Sunday. Tyrese Maxey led the way for the Sixers with 44 points, while Joel Embiid returned after missing nine games and scored 18 points.

Next: The Sixers (10-9) will next hit the court on Tuesday to host the last-place Wizards (2-16) at Xfinity Mobile Arena. (7 p.m., NBC Sports Philadelphia)

Rick Tocchet’s calm approach

There are different ways of coaching. Some coaches are fiery and use that to spark their team. Other coaches, like Rick Tocchet, appear to maintain a cool, calming presence.

Now the owner of 300 wins in the NHL after Saturday night, he knows the Flyers are just 24 games into the season, and there’s a long road ahead. And although every moment is important, he doesn’t get too wrapped up in the ups and downs and momentum shifts of every game.

Get more of Jackie Spiegel’s takeaways from the Flyers’ win over the Devils.

Next: The Flyers (14-7-3) host the rival Penguins (12-7-5) at Xfinity Mobile Arena. The Flyers won their first meeting, 3-2, back on Oct. 28. (7 p.m., NBC Sports Philadelphia)

The Nittany Lions’ uncertain future

Penn State players and fans have lobbied for Terry Smith to take over as coach after he turned around the team and ended the season on a three-game win streak. But will the university remove Smith’s interim title?

Greg Finberg examines the program’s uncertain future.

Sports snapshot

FIFA World Cup draw: FIFA’s World Cup draw is this week. Here’s what to know before, during, and after Friday’s event.

La Salle’s state title quest: The Explorers have not played for a state title in 15 years and last won the crown in 2009. They’ll have a shot in the PIAA Class 6A title game this Saturday.

A Palestra classic: Penn and La Salle played a regular-season nonconference game that didn’t count toward the Big 5 standings. But the Quakers’ win felt like the real thing.

‘Nova is moving on: A dominant first half allowed Villanova to conquer Harvard, 52-7, in the first round of the FCS playoffs.

Standings, stats, and more

Want to know where the Eagles stand in the NFC playoff picture after Week 13? Here’s a place to access your favorite Philadelphia teams’ statistics, schedules, and standings in real time.

Mike Sielski’s take …

After another rough outing for the Eagles offense, Sirianni defended Patullo, his first-year offensive coordinator. But as Mike Sielski wrote following the loss to Chicago, it may not matter if Jeffrey Lurie decides changes must be made to save a season that is on the brink of spiraling out of control.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Dave Caldwell, Gabriela Carroll, Greg Finberg, Owen Hewitt, Jeff McLane, Keith Pompey Mike Sielski, Jackie Spiegel, and Jonathan Tannenwald.

Hope you all had a happy holiday weekend! Thanks for reading and be on the lookout for us again tomorrow! — Vaughn

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In the spirit of the holiday, we’re starting the newsletter today with a pair of football-focused stories by Matt Breen to digest.

The first is about a Thanksgiving tradition that is fading away. High school football games between fierce rivals used to be a Turkey Day staple, but only 10 games are planned Thursday in Southeastern Pennsylvania, down from 28 in 2005.

The games are dwindling because of the PIAA playoff schedule, tepid attendance, and school closures, among other reasons, but one Thanksgiving rivalry plays on. Northeast and Central started playing annually in 1896 and the rivalry has paused only twice: in 1918 during World War I and 2020 during the pandemic. The schools say it’s the nation’s oldest rivalry among public schools.

Although attendance has shrunk, the teams will meet again at Northeast on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. and the mahogany Wooden Horse trophy will be at stake.

The second story revisits the rough-and-tumble days of the NFL in the 1940s and ’50s, when Bucko Kilroy was a fearsome force on both sides of the ball for the Eagles. Kilroy was called the dirtiest player in football in a Life magazine article, but he wound up spending 64 years in the NFL as a player, coach, scout, and front-office executive.

Kilroy will be inducted into the Eagles Hall of Fame on Friday.

— Jim Swan, @phillysport, sports.daily@inquirer.com.

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We’re taking a break

Happy Thanksgiving! The newsletter will be taking Thursday and Friday off as we observe the holiday. Sports Daily will return to your inbox on Monday.

Loaded for Bears

The Eagles needed some good news after that awful ending on Sunday and this is it: Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio says he expects to have Reed Blankenship available to play in the Good Friday matchup against the Chicago Bears (3 p.m., Fox29).

The veteran safety left the Cowboys game with an injured thigh and the other safety, Drew Mukuba, suffered a right leg fracture in that game. Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson left with a concussion, too. Olivia Reiner reports on how the Birds plan to patch up their secondary against the Bears.

Also on the Eagles beat:

• Saquon Barkley’s production has been way down this season. Here’s a look at the statistics behind his decline.
• There are few teams that have been as undisciplined as the Bears this season. Chicago has been called for 87 penalties, which is tied for fourth in the NFL.
• Eagles defensive tackle Byron Young’s father died suddenly in March. He has found a way to keep his dad close to him.
• The Eagles will wear black on Black Friday and are asking fans to do the same.

A bright spot

The Flyers managed only 20 shots on goal Monday, failing to score for the first time this season in a 3-0 loss to the Lightning in Tampa, Fla. Tending goal for the first time in 10 days, Sam Ersson played well for the Flyers, making 15 saves. Peer beyond the box score and you’ll see a goalie who played his game.

Join us before kickoff

Live from the Linc: Beat writers Jeff McLane and Olivia Reiner will preview the game against the Bears on Friday at 1:30 p.m. Tune in to Gameday Central.

Sports snapshot

• More injuries: Trendon Watford is latest Sixers player to suffer an injury during the team’s blowout loss to the Magic.
• Rebuilding at La Salle: Men’s basketball coach Darris Nichols and his brother Shane, an assistant, are tasked with turning things around.
• Headed for the Bahamas: Temple’s women have a date with No. 20 Michigan State in Nassau on Friday.
• Starting from scratch: Arcadia University has launched men’s and women’s wrestling programs this season.

Who said it?

What’s wrong with the Eagles? One veteran offered his take. Click here to see if you know who said it.

What you’re saying about the Eagles

We asked: Should the Eagles change their play-caller? Among your responses:

I do not ascribe that play calling is at the root of the offense’s “funk.” I see the issue as execution on the field. Saquon’s inability to gain constructive yards and bone headed penalties and decisions (fielding punt on 2-yard line) as the primary culprit. — Bill M.

YES! — Jill L.

Just curious why the Eagles felt that “on the job training” would be successful? Detroit made the change a few weeks ago. Worked for the first game and that’s it. How come no one is questioning Jeff Stoutland, the OL and run game coach? Big game coming up on Friday afternoon against da’ Bears. Looking for a 34-10 win and that will shut everyone up! Me included! Except for talk radio that will pick the game apart as usual. — Ronald R.

ABSOLUTELY. Duh. … Patullo is not working. At the end of the season, you’ll be saying “shoulda, woulda, coulda.” — Karen L.

The Eagles definitely need to change their play caller, but would guess that would not be easy at this point in the season. Maybe a serious sit down with Patullo, Sirianni, Roseman, and Mr. Lurie would help. I’ve never been a football coach, but just watching on TV from far away I find myself so frustrated at the calls that seem to be contrary to the immediate need. — Everett S.

It is easy to want a change, but who would you turn to? Nick is hopefully on the middle of game planning. Given his 4th quarter calls, he is not the answer. We are stuck with a learning curve and will have to ride it out. Either the plays are too conservative or the execution by the players is off. The offensive line has not been intact all year and Barkley looks a step slower. — Bob C.

There is something clearly wrong with this offense. They have enough talent that blowing a 21-point lead should never happen. I am not certain that the play caller is the problem but something has to change and that seems to be the place to start. — Bill H.

We compiled today’s newsletter using reporting from Matt Breen, Jeff Neiburg, Olivia Reiner, Jeff McLane, Marcus Hayes, Keith Pompey, Jackie Spiegel, Ariel Simpson, Colin Schofield, and Katie Lewis.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirer’s Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.

Again, happy Thanksgiving! I’ll see you in Monday’s newsletter. — Jim