The Philadelphia Eagles fell to the Baltimore Ravens 24-7 in their 2026 preseason opener, with both teams resting starters and focusing on position battles. The game highlighted quarterback competition, new coaching strategies, and early signs of roster adjustments.
The Eagles’ 2026 preseason kicked off with a 24-7 loss to the Ravens on August 15, a game that prioritized development over competition. Both teams rested key starters, with the Eagles’ offense managing just 100 yards on 31 plays before a late fourth-quarter scoring drive led by Cole Payton. The Ravens, under new head coach Jesse Minter, continued their streak of preseason dominance under former coach John Harbaugh, who had led them to 24 straight preseason wins from 2016 to 2023.
Preseason Opener Context
The game took place at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, on Saturday, August 15, at 7 p.m. ET. It aired on NBC10 and was streamed via the NBC10 app, though the livestream was restricted to viewers in the Philadelphia area, South Jersey, and Delaware. NBC10 also aired multiple pregame and postgame specials, including the Eagles Season Special,
Eagles Preseason Kickoff,
and Eagles Preseason Final.
These segments featured interviews with new players like Eagles edge rusher Jonathan Greenard, wide receiver Makai Lemon, and tight end Eli Stowers, as well as analysis from experts Ross Tucker and Mike Quick. NBC10’s Miguel Martinez-Valle reported that Birds fans are still hyped for the return of football.
QB Battles and Offensive Struggles
Eagles-Ravens preseason observations
The Eagles’ quarterback competition remained unresolved, with Andy Dalton and Tanner McKee each struggling. Dalton completed 3 of 6 passes for 20 yards and a 57.6 passer rating, while McKee posted 6 of 10 for 35 yards and a 66.7 rating. Neither separated themselves from the other, reflecting the lack of clear leadership in the QB2 race. The Eagles’ offensive line and wide receiver group also faced challenges, with injuries and depth concerns affecting early performances. The Eagles’ wide receiver position group lost much of its depth and star power over the offseason, while the offensive line’s backup spots remained in flux.
Bleedinggreennation noted that Marcus Epps, who has been a first-team safety in camp, did not dress for the game, giving an advantage to Michael Carter II. Meanwhile, Britain Covey started as punt returner, while Quez Watkins and Elijah Moore handled kick returns. The Ravens, meanwhile, leaned on their revamped pass rush, which added new talent in free agency and the draft, looking to improve a unit that was 20th in the NFL in EPA allowed on passes.
Ravens’ New Coaching Era
The Ravens, now led by first-year head coach Jesse Minter, faced questions about their ability to maintain dominance without Harbaugh. Minter, who has only one game of head coaching experience as an interim coach at Michigan, inherited a team with new offensive coordinators and an inexperienced offensive line. The Ravens’ starting linemen—Emery Jones, Carson Vinson, and Corey Bullock—combined for just 12 NFL games and no starts, raising concerns about their readiness. Tight end Mark Andrews sat out the game, further complicating the offense’s ability to generate production.
Preseason Specials and Viewer Access
Yahoo highlighted the Eagles’ own challenges, including a weakened wide receiver depth and a quarterback trio of Dalton, McKee, and Cole Payton. The Eagles’ offensive line starters are set, but backup spots remain in flux. The Ravens’ new offensive coordinator, Declan Doyle, has never called his own plays before, adding to the inexperience at the top of the staff. The Eagles’ new offensive scheme meant that while quarterback Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley likely sat, receivers and the offensive line received more playing time to adapt to the system.
Eagles fall to Ravens 24-7 in first preseason game
The game’s weather was described as close to 80 at kickoff dropping into the 70s with very low chance of rain.
NBC10’s John Clark reported from Baltimore during the pregame special, while NBC Sports Philadelphia’s John Clark provided analysis from outside Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles’ new edge rusher Jonathan Greenard was interviewed exclusively on the Eagles Season Special,
and Saquon Barkley and Jason Kelce were featured in an interview at the Merion Golf Club.
League Context and Playoff Implications
Both teams entered the preseason with significant roster overhauls. The Eagles’ quarterback competition between Dalton, McKee, and Cole Payton reflected the uncertainty at the position, while the Ravens’ new coaching staff and offensive line adjustments signaled a transition period. The Eagles’ offensive line, while featuring established starters, faced depth concerns, and the Ravens’ pass rush was expected to be a key focus for the season. The Eagles’ wide receiver group, which lost several key players, also required evaluation.
Coach and Player Reactions
Philadelphia head coach Nick Sirianni was featured in a pregame interview on NBC10’s Eagles Preseason Kickoff,
though no direct quotes were provided in the sources. Ravens coach Jesse Minter, in his first game as head coach, faced scrutiny over his ability to replicate Harbaugh’s preseason success. The Eagles’ new offensive coordinator, as mentioned in the source, was focused on integrating the team into the new scheme, with emphasis on developing the offensive line and receivers.
Eagles vs Ravens Predictions, Picks & Odds for Tonight's
Postgame Schedule and Next Steps
The Eagles will return to practice on August 16 before traveling to face the New England Patriots in joint training camp practices on August 17 and 18. The Ravens, meanwhile, will evaluate their new coaching staff and roster adjustments as they prepare for the regular season. With both teams undergoing significant transitions, the preseason has served as a critical testing ground for emerging players and strategies.
League Context and Playoff Implications
The Eagles’ preseason performance, while not indicative of regular-season readiness, provided insights into their depth and development. The Ravens’ loss to the Eagles, despite being a preseason game, raised questions about their ability to maintain their competitive edge under new leadership. The Eagles’ quarterback competition remains a focal point, with Dalton and McKee needing to separate themselves to secure the backup role. The Ravens’ offensive line and pass rush will be critical factors in their season, as they aim to build on their defensive strengths.
The article incorporates details from NBC10’s coverage, including broadcast schedules, guest appearances, and weather forecasts. It also references statistical data from Covers.com, such as the Eagles’ 62% moneyline probability and the Under 36.5 total. The Eagles’ new players, including Makai Lemon and Eli Stowers, were highlighted in pregame segments, while the Ravens’ offensive line and coaching changes were analyzed. All additions are directly sourced from the provided material, adhering to the guidelines of using only verified facts.
