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Carson Wentz made his NFL debut against the Bucs. (Getty)
Final Score
Tampa Bay Bucs 6-0-0-3 — 9
Philadelphia Eagles 14-0-0-3 — 17
Box Score
Football is back as the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first preseason game for both squads.
The big story heading into tonight’s contest was the debut of Eagles rookie quarterback Carson Wentz. Wentz was selected with the second pick of the NFL Draft after the Eagles moved up to draft him.
He entered the game just before halftime. Wentz went 12-of-24 for 89 yards and one interception. Wentz threw a critical interception as the Eagles were driving in the redzone. It was not all bad for the rookie.
Wentz displayed the ability to extend plays with his legs. His ability to be accurate with the football was inconsistent during his debut although he managed to connect several times with tight end Zach Ertz.
For the Bucs, Jameis Winston is no longer a rookie as he began his second NFL season. Winston was 7-of-9 for 97 yards and a touchdown. He also fumbled the ball after a strip sack by Fletcher Cox.
Here’s is what happened.
Ryan Matthews Scored the First Touchdown of the Game
After the Eagles special teams unit forced a fumble on the opening kickoff, the Eagles took advantage of finding themselves in the redzone to start the series. Matthews punched in a five yard touchdown run. Matthews is expected to start the season as the Eagles lead back with DeMarco Murray traded this offseason.
Russell Shepard Got the Bucs on the Scoreboard
After Chase Daniel put the Eagles up by 14 on a quarterback keeper, Jameis Winston found Russell Shepard for the first Bucs TD of the preseason. The rookie kicker the Bucs traded up for in the second round to draft missed his first NFL extra point.
Carson Wentz Threw His First Interception
Wentz was playing well until he made a crucial error in the redzone. After the Eagles received a second chance on a fumble that was called back because of a Bucs personal foul, Wentz sailed the ball over his receiver midway through the third quarter.
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