PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Nick Sirianni understood the risks associated with his decision to rest Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley and most of the Eagles' key starters with the No. 2 seed in the NFC at stake.

His backup plan backfired in the moment, and the Super Bowl champions will start their postseason defense of the title as the 3 seed.

Advertisement

Article continues below this ad

With Hurts and Barkley on the bench and the Eagles' second-stringers failing to meet the moment, the Washington Commanders got fourth-quarter passing and rushing touchdowns from Josh Johnson and beat Philadelphia 24-17 on Sunday.

“I knew this was an outcome, that these things could happen,” said Sirianni, who has coached the Eagles to two of the last three Super Bowls. “One thing I could guarantee was giving them rest. I couldn't guarantee them anything else. Being healthy and going into the playoffs healthy is a big deal for us.”

The NFC East champion Eagles (11-6) will open the playoffs at home next weekend against San Francisco.

The final outcome of Sirianni's call won't be determined until the Eagles' postseason run is over. Perhaps a physical and mental break — essentially a bye week for the core starters — was what the Eagles needed to gear up for a Super Bowl run.

Advertisement

Article continues below this ad

“I know there will be debate on that,” Sirianni said.

Good........

© SFGate