Eagles' Nick Sirianni Defended by NFL Coach amid Criticism After Loss vs. Bears

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni faced a wave of criticism after his decision to attempt a two-point conversion late in Friday's 24-15 loss to the Chicago Bears, but not everyone feels the same way.

While speaking to The Athletic's Mike Sando, a veteran NFL coach defended Sirianni's decision to go for two after cutting the deficit to nine with 3:10 remaining in the fourth quarter.

"Why can't there just be differences of opinions?" the coach said. "One strategy is not the only strategy."

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As Sando explained, mathematical models used in today's game "generally advocate going for two when trailing by nine late in regulation because the trailing team needs a successful two-point try to win at some point, and some feel there's an advantage in finding out sooner than later if the try is successful."

In Philadelphia's case, the attempt was unsuccessful when quarterback Jalen Hurts' pass to running back Saquon Barkley fell incomplete, causing the team to lose its second straight game.

Still, Sando pointed out that the windy conditions in Philadelphia likely played a factor in Sirianni's decision-making, so it's understandable that he chose not to kick an extra point in that scenario.

"As you gather more info, teams develop and practice different strategies," the coach added. "We have seen teams win the coin toss and take the ball. We have seen it swing the other way. Same thing with overtime kickoffs. Why do we have to say anyone who doesn't do one strategy is dumb? It's ridiculous."

The Eagles (8-4) will try to end their skid when they face the Los Angeles Chargers (8-4) on Monday Night Football in Week 14.