Eagles-Patriots takeaways: Tammer McKee strengthens his case to be QB2

The Philadelphia Eagles received several encouraging performances from players fighting for roles and roster spots Saturday, but two explosive touchdown passes helped the New England Patriots secure a 24-21 preseason victory at Gillette Stadium.

Here are 10 takeaways from Philadelphia’s second preseason game.

Ja’Quinden Jackson’s health outweighs the final score

Jackson took an apparent knee to the head on the opening kickoff and was removed from the field by ambulance. Philadelphia reported having strength and movement in all extremities before being transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.

It was the most important update of the night.

Tanner McKee makes his strongest QB2 statement

McKee completed 16 of 22 passes for 173 yards, two touchdowns and a 125.8 passer rating. He directed scoring drives that ended with touchdown passes to Britain Covey and Carson Steele.

After two preseason games without much separation, McKee finally delivered the type of performance that could reshape the backup-quarterback competition.

Andy Dalton struggles again

Dalton completed 3 of 10 passes for 44 yards and missed several open receivers. He has completed 6 of 16 attempts for 64 yards through two preseason starts. Philadelphia’s coaches have trusted Dalton with the first opportunities, but his production has not justified an uncontested lead over McKee in the media.

Carson Steele displays valuable versatility

Steele caught six passes for 84 yards, rushed 12 times for 33 yards and scored on a 20-yard reception. He finished that touchdown by leaping over a New England defender. Cameron Latu may have entered the week with an advantage in the fullback competition, but Steele offered a reminder that he can contribute as a runner and receiver.

Will Shipley takes advantage of his opportunity

Shipley rushed for 56 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries. His 18-yard run helped establish Philadelphia’s early control of the line of scrimmage, and he consistently ran through initial contact. His performance strengthened his standing behind Saquon Barkley and Tank Bigsby.

The young offensive linemen produced encouraging work

Markel Bell, Willie Lampkin, Drew Kendall and Jake Majors helped Philadelphia control the running game early. Bell moved defenders at the point of attack, while Lampkin and Kendall created interior lanes for Shipley.

The Eagles continue to test several combinations, but their young linemen provided encouraging film.

Darius Cooper remains productive

Cooper caught three passes for 44 yards, including a 25-yard gain during Philadelphia’s opening touchdown drive. He broke a tackle, stayed in bounds and generated yards after the catch.

Cooper continues to look like more than a developmental receiver. He is making a legitimate push for regular-season snaps.

Ty Robinson continues his rapid rise

Robinson played less than one half but recorded four tackles, two sacks, three tackles for loss and three quarterback hits. He also produced another hit that was called back on a penalty. After a slow start to camp, Robinson has recorded sacks in consecutive preseason games and is creating a strong case for a role in Vic Fangio’s defensive-line rotation.

Joshua Weru and the young defense make plays

Weru bent around Dametrious Crownover for his first preseason sack, which was officially changed from a half-sack to a full sack. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. also recorded his second sack in as many games, while Uar Bernard contributed two tackles.

Shaun Wade led Philadelphia with 10 tackles and forced a fumble for the second consecutive week.

Explosive passes and the final turnover decide the game

Philadelphia’s defense allowed touchdown passes of 69 and 37 yards. Kyle Williams beat Ambry Thomas without safety help for the first, while Morton found DeGennaro for the winning score with 57 seconds remaining.

Payton entered for the final possession, completed his only pass and then lost a fumble while being sacked. He received little time to make his case, but the turnover ended Philadelphia’s final opportunity and sealed another preseason loss.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles-Patriots takeaways: Tammer McKee strengthens his case to be QB2