Eagles vs. Bengals: 10 takeaways from the first half

The Philadelphia Eagles entered halftime trailing the Cincinnati Bengals 9-3 in their preseason finale at Lincoln Financial Field.

Neither team reached the end zone during the opening two quarters, but Cincinnati controlled most of the half behind Josh Johnson and an efficient passing attack. Philadelphia produced only 87 net yards, turned the football over and struggled to generate anything through the air.

Here are 10 takeaways from the first half.

1. Eagles offense remains stuck in neutral

Philadelphia produced only 87 net yards and three points during the opening half. The Eagles averaged 2.5 yards per passing attempt, surrendered two sacks and failed to sustain enough drives.

2. Tanner McKee needs a stronger second half

McKee completed 12 of 22 passes for 55 yards with an interception and a 41.1 passer rating. Philadelphia finished with only 39 net passing yards after accounting for the two sacks.

3. Makai Lemon is getting opportunities

Lemon caught three passes on five targets during his Eagles debut. The rookie produced only 3 yards, but the early involvement allowed him to experience NFL game speed after missing most of the preseason with a hamstring injury.

4. Dameon Pierce provided the offensive spark

Pierce was Philadelphia’s most productive runner, gaining 44 yards on four carries. His 16-yard run was the longest rushing attempt of the half, and his 11-yard average stood out during an otherwise uneven offensive performance.

5. Carson Steele has value in the passing game

Steele caught all five of his targets for 32 yards, including a 17-yard reception. He was less effective on the ground, gaining 4 yards on three attempts, but remained McKee’s most reliable outlet.

6. Philadelphia has avoided the knockout punch

Cincinnati accumulated 201 yards and did not punt during the first half, but the Eagles kept the Bengals out of the end zone. Evan McPherson’s three field goals accounted for all nine Cincinnati points.

7. Explosive passes remain a concern

Johnson completed 12 of 19 passes for 156 yards. Dohnte Meyers, Noah Thomas, Mitchell Tinsley and Ke’Shawn Williams each produced a reception of at least 18 yards as Cincinnati repeatedly created opportunities downfield.

8. Mac McWilliams has been busy

McWilliams led Philadelphia with seven tackles, including six solo stops. Keyshawn James-Newby produced the defense’s only sack, while Shaun Wade recorded the only pass breakup.

9. Andre’ Sam capitalized on Cincinnati’s mistake

Gary Brightwell lost the football during the first half, and Sam recovered it for Philadelphia. The takeaway helped the Eagles avoid falling into a larger deficit despite Cincinnati controlling the football.

10. Special teams produced mixed results

Jake Elliott connected on a 45-yard field goal, while Erik Ezukanma averaged 24.7 yards on three kickoff returns. Philadelphia’s punt coverage was less effective, allowing Charlie Jones to gain 39 yards on three returns, including a 31-yarder.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles vs. Bengals: 10 takeaways from the first half