With yesterday's games, this upcoming weekend's games are set.
In the first Sunday game, the Baltimore Ravens continue to be road warriors by thumping the upstart Kansas City Chiefs 30-7. You can ask where'd all that offense come from. And the key piece was Ravens QB Joe Flacco.
Despite people still bringing up his poor performance against the New England Patriots (a game the Ravens won, by the way), Flacco asserted himself to the tune of a 23-34, 265 yards and 2 TD performance. A stark contrast to the game in Gillette Stadium last January.
And what about Ravens TE Todd Heap? Just when you think the game may have passed him by a bit, he catches ten balls, a Ravens postseason and personal record, for 108 yards. And don't tell me you saw that coming either. The one receiver we all expected that type of game from was Anquan Boldin.
Most will point out that the Ravens defense forced five turnovers including three Matt Cassel interceptions. Very true, but the fact Baltimore showed an offensive spark against a pretty good defense can build momentum and confidence.
Then you realize the Ravens have to go to Pittsburgh.
Michael Vick's career in Philadelphia is officially in limbo...sort of, or not.
The Green Bay Packers saw to that limiting Vick's effectiveness on the ground. Vick had 8 rushes for 33 yards in the Eagles 21-16 loss. You could say Vick was contained as he did hit the air for 292 yards on 20-36 passing. He also tossed a pick with about a half minute to go to seal the deal for Green Bay.
One question: Where in the hell did Mike McCarthy find James Starks? Another question: How in the hell did this kid rush for 123 yards on 23 carries? For the 2010 season he had 29 carries for 101 yards.
I know at least two people that don't care. One is McCarthy. The other is Packers QB Aaron Rodgers who was the beneficiary of Starks and his legs. This all meant that Rodgers wore a pretty clean jersey and absorbed only two sacks.
Rodgers didn't accumulate a lot of yards through the air (180) and he only threw the ball 27 times. Rodgers didn't need to throw a lot. When he did he was pretty accurate, like 18-27 accurate and a game QB rating of 122.5. Did I fail to mention he tossed 3 TD?
So, next week looks like this:
Saturday:
Ravens/Steelers @ 4:30 PM ET
Packers/Falcons @ 8:00 PM ET
Sunday:
Seahawks/Bears @ 1:00 PM ET
Jets/Patriots @ 4:30 PM ET
Showing posts with label philadelphia eagles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label philadelphia eagles. Show all posts
Monday, January 10, 2011
Saturday, January 08, 2011
Sunday NFL Playoff Games: Packers/Eagles
All eyes will be on the quarterback matchup in this one. You have the still polarizing Michael Vick leading the Philadelphia Eagles. On the other sideline, it's the one of the league's top 5 QBs in Aaron Rodgers for the Green Bay Packers. This could unfold into a high scoring affair.
Green Bay Packers v. Philadelphia Eagles
Game Time: Sunday, Jan. 9 @ 4:30 PM ET
Network: FOX
Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
The Linc will be in an uproar. We all know that Philly sports crowds can be unforgiving for their team and the opponent. You don't need to pay a whole lot of attention to the announcing. Listen for the crowd. They'll let you know what's happening.
When the Eagles have the ball...
No secrets here for Philly. The ball is in the redefined hands of Vick. When he was a Falcon, it was basically watch Michael run. It can transpire into that still, but the Eagles have weapons the Vick-led Falcons teams didn't have.
Look at the receivers he has. Speed with both DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. Consistency with Jason Avant. A more than capable TE in Brent Celek. A RB that can catch and run in LeSean McCoy. And you have to worry about Vick and his talent, too. Hard to fathom this team didn't lead the NFL in total offense. How didn't they?
For the past few seasons, the Eagles have evolved into an offense that throws the ball more than anyone. While that's a nice aspect to have, they have become weak in the running game. The past couple of seasons, Philly has lacked that one play that can provide just one yard. How often do they get stuffed in those situations? Plenty. And playoff football almost demands you be able to rush. While the numbers point out that Philly has been successful in 2010, a ,lot of that can be attributed to Vick and his scrambles.
For the Eagles to continue the trek to Dallas, LeSean McCoy must establish himself in the ground game. That will do two things. Limit the hits on Vick and opposing offenses will have to respect the fact the Philly is willing to run the ball with McCoy. A healthy Vick is a lethal Vick especially in the passing attack.
But the Pack offers resistance, mostly in grounding the passing game. If you're to get them, you must be able to run the ball on them. Defensive coordinator Dom Capers, one of the NFL's best DCs, will have his guys ready. A fervent pass rush shold make for an interesting matchup of the Packers O line and the Eagles D line and LBs.
When the Packers have the ball...
When RB Ryan Grant went down during the week 1 game between these two teams, I immediately thought the Packers would struggle to even make the playoffs. I was correct in that, and Green Bay had to defeat the Chicago Bears last week to become a wild card. No running game (24th overall) meant opposing defenses simply had to go after QB Aaron Rodgers.
Didn't that guy take enough sacks in 2009? And now he's been concussed twice in 2010 from hits. He still takes too many. And there's has been no one that can run the ball for Green Bay. That may well prove to be the Achilles heel on down the line (if the Packers make it past this game) if no running game emerges for Green Bay.
But people think of the Rodgers and his stables of receivers. Losing TE JerMichael Finley early in the season didn't slow down the aerial assault. Like the Eagles, the Packers have three gifted receivers. Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and James Jones are as good as any trio in the league. And don't forget Jordy Nelson either.
The Philly defense? Not near what we saw in the past. They'll still blitz you almost every down, but the effectiveness isn't the same under former DC Jim Johnson. After Johnson's passing prior to last season, Eagles opponents knew what was coming and couldn't stop it. Not that way now. Philly ranks in the middle in both the pass and rush.
And you really need to ask yourself two questions this if your Green Bay: Where's Asante Samuel? Where's Trent Cole? If you answer those and can avoid them, you're better off...and most likely going to win.
This game will boil down to two things: Can Green Bay find a running game and can Michael Vick not receive so many hits.
They say defense wins in the postseason, but at times this year, if you bet against Vick, he made you pay.
Green Bay Packers v. Philadelphia Eagles
Game Time: Sunday, Jan. 9 @ 4:30 PM ET
Network: FOX
Announcers: Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
The Linc will be in an uproar. We all know that Philly sports crowds can be unforgiving for their team and the opponent. You don't need to pay a whole lot of attention to the announcing. Listen for the crowd. They'll let you know what's happening.
When the Eagles have the ball...
| Scoring (Rk) | Total Yds (Rk) | Pass Yds (Rk) | Rush Yds (Rk) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 27.4 (3rd) | 389.4 (2nd) | 244.1 (9th) | 145.2 (5th) |
 | 15.0 (2nd) | 309.1 (5th) | 194.2 (5th) | 114.9 (18th) |
No secrets here for Philly. The ball is in the redefined hands of Vick. When he was a Falcon, it was basically watch Michael run. It can transpire into that still, but the Eagles have weapons the Vick-led Falcons teams didn't have.
Look at the receivers he has. Speed with both DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. Consistency with Jason Avant. A more than capable TE in Brent Celek. A RB that can catch and run in LeSean McCoy. And you have to worry about Vick and his talent, too. Hard to fathom this team didn't lead the NFL in total offense. How didn't they?
 |
| If Vick must run a lot, the Eagles may not win. Image by Ed Yourman via Flickr |
For the Eagles to continue the trek to Dallas, LeSean McCoy must establish himself in the ground game. That will do two things. Limit the hits on Vick and opposing offenses will have to respect the fact the Philly is willing to run the ball with McCoy. A healthy Vick is a lethal Vick especially in the passing attack.
But the Pack offers resistance, mostly in grounding the passing game. If you're to get them, you must be able to run the ball on them. Defensive coordinator Dom Capers, one of the NFL's best DCs, will have his guys ready. A fervent pass rush shold make for an interesting matchup of the Packers O line and the Eagles D line and LBs.
When the Packers have the ball...
| Scoring (Rk) | Total Yds (Rk) | Pass Yds (Rk) | Rush Yds (Rk) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24.2 (10th) | 358.1 (9th) | 257.8 (5th) | 100.4 (24th) |
| 23.6 (21st) | 327.2 (12th) | 216.8 (15th) | 110.4 (15th) |
When RB Ryan Grant went down during the week 1 game between these two teams, I immediately thought the Packers would struggle to even make the playoffs. I was correct in that, and Green Bay had to defeat the Chicago Bears last week to become a wild card. No running game (24th overall) meant opposing defenses simply had to go after QB Aaron Rodgers.
 |
| A facet of Rodgers that gets lost, his running ability. Image by Darin House via Flickr |
But people think of the Rodgers and his stables of receivers. Losing TE JerMichael Finley early in the season didn't slow down the aerial assault. Like the Eagles, the Packers have three gifted receivers. Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and James Jones are as good as any trio in the league. And don't forget Jordy Nelson either.
The Philly defense? Not near what we saw in the past. They'll still blitz you almost every down, but the effectiveness isn't the same under former DC Jim Johnson. After Johnson's passing prior to last season, Eagles opponents knew what was coming and couldn't stop it. Not that way now. Philly ranks in the middle in both the pass and rush.
And you really need to ask yourself two questions this if your Green Bay: Where's Asante Samuel? Where's Trent Cole? If you answer those and can avoid them, you're better off...and most likely going to win.
This game will boil down to two things: Can Green Bay find a running game and can Michael Vick not receive so many hits.
They say defense wins in the postseason, but at times this year, if you bet against Vick, he made you pay.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
NFL Week 3 Wrap-up
Lots of interesting stuff from this past week.
1. Michael Vick
I know people are touting Vick's return and saying he's better than he was while he was a Falcon. It's only 10 quarters of play, so let's curb that a bit. There are noticeable and encouraging differences from his days in the ATL. He's is more patient in the pocket. The fact that Vick is the most sacked QB in the NFL gives you a slight indication that he's more willing to stay in the pocket. He has regained most, if not all, of his explosiveness. And he's got the backing of his whole team. Long way he's come in a short time.
2. Cincinnati Bengals offense
Weren't a lot of experts predicting an outburst from the Bengals offense? Hasn't even materialized in the season's first three games. The Bengals have scored five, count 'em, five TDs. Kicker Mike Nugent, who has been perfect in the kicking department, has more field goals with eight. Nugent is the Bengals offense at this point. Carson Palmer has looked ordinary. Cedric Benson has yet to crack 100 yards in a game. Ochocinco and T.O. have 1 TD between them.
 |
| We've seen this before... |
I know people are touting Vick's return and saying he's better than he was while he was a Falcon. It's only 10 quarters of play, so let's curb that a bit. There are noticeable and encouraging differences from his days in the ATL. He's is more patient in the pocket. The fact that Vick is the most sacked QB in the NFL gives you a slight indication that he's more willing to stay in the pocket. He has regained most, if not all, of his explosiveness. And he's got the backing of his whole team. Long way he's come in a short time.
2. Cincinnati Bengals offense
Weren't a lot of experts predicting an outburst from the Bengals offense? Hasn't even materialized in the season's first three games. The Bengals have scored five, count 'em, five TDs. Kicker Mike Nugent, who has been perfect in the kicking department, has more field goals with eight. Nugent is the Bengals offense at this point. Carson Palmer has looked ordinary. Cedric Benson has yet to crack 100 yards in a game. Ochocinco and T.O. have 1 TD between them.
Friday, August 06, 2010
NFC East Primer
Part 2 of our look into the 2010 NFL season brings us to the NFC East.
Dallas Cowboys
2009 record: 11-5, 1st in division
Head coach: Wade Phillips
Key Additions: T Alex Barron
Key Losses: T Flozell Adams, S Ken Hamlin
1. Are the Cowboys a newer "version" of the San Diego Chargers?
They are. All the talent, very little results. Sure, Dallas manage a playoff win last year. A playoff win. Nothing more.
2. Will Dallas feel the pressure of trying to become the first team to play the Super Bowl on its home field?
In all honesty, they shouldn't care one bit. You always hear phrases similar to "keep your eyes on the prize", but you wonder if that prize doesn't create unnecessary pressure.
3. Seriously, is Wade Phillips the right guy in Dallas?
He does whatever Jerry Jones wants...except win a Super Bowl. I don't think he is, but Phillips isn't a terrible coach.I just feel here's more of a defensive coordinator.
There's nothing that should keep these guys from winning the division...except themselves.
New York Giants
2009 record: 8-8
Head coach: Tom Coughlin
Key Additions: S Antrel Rolle, S Deon Grant, LB Keith Bulluck
Key Losses: S C.C. Brown, CB Kevin Dockery
1. Will the G-men be able to bounce back from a deplorable second half of 2009?
Anyone that knows how Coughlin coaches will answer this as a resounding "yes". He demands excellence and attention to detail. There's no way the Giants stumble in 2010 like they did in 2009. This coaching staff, for the most part, has been together long enough to realize they made critical mistakes last year, too. That will be the difference in 2010.
2. Is the offensive line still as good as it was a couple of seasons ago?
We saw cracks in the armor last year during the dreaded second half. They're still good, but they're also not the best O-line in the league like may thought in 2007 and 2008.
3. Can the defense get back to the level it was during the Super Bowl season?
It can and it will come close this season. The Giants shored up the defensive front in the draft with Jason Pierre-Paul and Linval Joseph. They brought in Keith Bulluck and signed Antrel Rolle. Every level was addressed so there's no reason to believe they can't excel.
8-8 is not where these guys belong.
Philadelphia Eagles
2009 record: 11-5, 2nd in division
Head coach: Andy Reid
Key Additions: RB Mike Bell, WR Kelley Washington, LB Joe Mays, LB Ernie Sims
Key Losses: QB Donovan McNabb, RB Brian Westbrook, LB Will Weatherspoon, S Sean Jones, CB Sheldon Brown, LB Chris Gocong
1. How well will the Eagles adjust to Kevin Kolb?
It better be fast and it better be smooth. Kolb is the polar opposite of McNabb as far as football goes. Kolb is a pocket passer and will not make the plays on the run like #5 did. Eagles fans must recognize that he's still pretty much a rookie even with this being his 4th season.
2. Will the defense find a way to improve in 2010?
Not really seeing it. The front seven got a gift in landing Brandon Graham in the draft. They traded for a high motor LB in Sims, but what else?
3. Could this be Andy Reid's last hurrah?
Quite possible if the Eagles fall off substantially. I'm a fan of Andy Reid's. Despite never winning the Super Bowl, I believe he's an excellent coach. He has guided the Eagles to many NFC Championships games during his tenure. He's just got the one win in those games and people continually knock him for that. If he's not in Philly after this season, he will be elsewhere in 2011.
The guys lost a lot and gained a little.
Washington Redskins
2009 record: 4-12
Head coach: Mike Shanahan
Key Additions: QB Donovan McNabb, T Jamaal Brown, LB Chris Draft, RB Willie Parker, RB Larry Johnson, WR Mike Furrey, WR Joey Galloway
Key Losses: WR Antwaan Randle-El, RB Rock Cartwright, QB Jason Campbell
1. Will this Albert Haynesworth-Mike Shanahan thing ever end?
It will. An MRI revealed no structural damage to Albert's sore knee. It's just a matter of time before this locking of the horns ends and both parties realize they're acting like a couple of school children.
2. Who does McNabb throw to?
Better yet, why does McNabb have to pass as much as he did in Philly? He won't have to because of Mike Shanahan's scheme. There's a veteran stable of backs in Clinton Portis, Parker and Johnson. If McNabb does have to venture downfield, his options are all that eye opening. He has TEs Chris Cooley and Fred Davis. It his options at receiver that aren't great, but not that bad. Santana Moss is still dangerous but the two 3rd-year receivers (Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly) must rise to the occasion.
3. Can we really expect the defense to stand?
The first hurdle was cleared when Jim Haslett was brought in as defensive coordinator. Not that the Redskins were a bad defense in 2009 (10th overall). Shanny prefers a 3-4 scheme and Haslett is just the right guy to bring in. The linebackers are the group under the microscope. Brian Orakpo could be the supreme beneficiary to the scheme switch. Throw in vets like Rocky McIntosh and London Fletcher should provide a better performing group.
A 4-12 season will not be duplicated in D.C. In fact, if these guys are below .500, I'd be surprised even with the tussle between Albert and Shanny.
Predicting a winner for this division is the easiest. It's how the other three fall. I'm grasping here, but...
1. Dallas. Has to be them Cowboys.
2. New York. Coughlin won't let '09 happen in '10.
3. Washington. Love the McNabb move.
4. Philadelphia. Hate the McNabb move.
 |
| Did Dez forget something? |
2009 record: 11-5, 1st in division
Head coach: Wade Phillips
Key Additions: T Alex Barron
Key Losses: T Flozell Adams, S Ken Hamlin
1. Are the Cowboys a newer "version" of the San Diego Chargers?
They are. All the talent, very little results. Sure, Dallas manage a playoff win last year. A playoff win. Nothing more.
2. Will Dallas feel the pressure of trying to become the first team to play the Super Bowl on its home field?
In all honesty, they shouldn't care one bit. You always hear phrases similar to "keep your eyes on the prize", but you wonder if that prize doesn't create unnecessary pressure.
3. Seriously, is Wade Phillips the right guy in Dallas?
He does whatever Jerry Jones wants...except win a Super Bowl. I don't think he is, but Phillips isn't a terrible coach.I just feel here's more of a defensive coordinator.
There's nothing that should keep these guys from winning the division...except themselves.
 |
| If Bulluck is healthy, Giants opponents better be aware of his whereabouts on the field. |
2009 record: 8-8
Head coach: Tom Coughlin
Key Additions: S Antrel Rolle, S Deon Grant, LB Keith Bulluck
Key Losses: S C.C. Brown, CB Kevin Dockery
1. Will the G-men be able to bounce back from a deplorable second half of 2009?
Anyone that knows how Coughlin coaches will answer this as a resounding "yes". He demands excellence and attention to detail. There's no way the Giants stumble in 2010 like they did in 2009. This coaching staff, for the most part, has been together long enough to realize they made critical mistakes last year, too. That will be the difference in 2010.
2. Is the offensive line still as good as it was a couple of seasons ago?
We saw cracks in the armor last year during the dreaded second half. They're still good, but they're also not the best O-line in the league like may thought in 2007 and 2008.
3. Can the defense get back to the level it was during the Super Bowl season?
It can and it will come close this season. The Giants shored up the defensive front in the draft with Jason Pierre-Paul and Linval Joseph. They brought in Keith Bulluck and signed Antrel Rolle. Every level was addressed so there's no reason to believe they can't excel.
8-8 is not where these guys belong.
 |
| "You take it!" "No, you take it!" |
2009 record: 11-5, 2nd in division
Head coach: Andy Reid
Key Additions: RB Mike Bell, WR Kelley Washington, LB Joe Mays, LB Ernie Sims
Key Losses: QB Donovan McNabb, RB Brian Westbrook, LB Will Weatherspoon, S Sean Jones, CB Sheldon Brown, LB Chris Gocong
1. How well will the Eagles adjust to Kevin Kolb?
It better be fast and it better be smooth. Kolb is the polar opposite of McNabb as far as football goes. Kolb is a pocket passer and will not make the plays on the run like #5 did. Eagles fans must recognize that he's still pretty much a rookie even with this being his 4th season.
2. Will the defense find a way to improve in 2010?
Not really seeing it. The front seven got a gift in landing Brandon Graham in the draft. They traded for a high motor LB in Sims, but what else?
3. Could this be Andy Reid's last hurrah?
Quite possible if the Eagles fall off substantially. I'm a fan of Andy Reid's. Despite never winning the Super Bowl, I believe he's an excellent coach. He has guided the Eagles to many NFC Championships games during his tenure. He's just got the one win in those games and people continually knock him for that. If he's not in Philly after this season, he will be elsewhere in 2011.
The guys lost a lot and gained a little.
 |
| He looks so lost and lonely. |
2009 record: 4-12
Head coach: Mike Shanahan
Key Additions: QB Donovan McNabb, T Jamaal Brown, LB Chris Draft, RB Willie Parker, RB Larry Johnson, WR Mike Furrey, WR Joey Galloway
Key Losses: WR Antwaan Randle-El, RB Rock Cartwright, QB Jason Campbell
1. Will this Albert Haynesworth-Mike Shanahan thing ever end?
It will. An MRI revealed no structural damage to Albert's sore knee. It's just a matter of time before this locking of the horns ends and both parties realize they're acting like a couple of school children.
2. Who does McNabb throw to?
Better yet, why does McNabb have to pass as much as he did in Philly? He won't have to because of Mike Shanahan's scheme. There's a veteran stable of backs in Clinton Portis, Parker and Johnson. If McNabb does have to venture downfield, his options are all that eye opening. He has TEs Chris Cooley and Fred Davis. It his options at receiver that aren't great, but not that bad. Santana Moss is still dangerous but the two 3rd-year receivers (Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly) must rise to the occasion.
3. Can we really expect the defense to stand?
The first hurdle was cleared when Jim Haslett was brought in as defensive coordinator. Not that the Redskins were a bad defense in 2009 (10th overall). Shanny prefers a 3-4 scheme and Haslett is just the right guy to bring in. The linebackers are the group under the microscope. Brian Orakpo could be the supreme beneficiary to the scheme switch. Throw in vets like Rocky McIntosh and London Fletcher should provide a better performing group.
A 4-12 season will not be duplicated in D.C. In fact, if these guys are below .500, I'd be surprised even with the tussle between Albert and Shanny.
Predicting a winner for this division is the easiest. It's how the other three fall. I'm grasping here, but...
1. Dallas. Has to be them Cowboys.
2. New York. Coughlin won't let '09 happen in '10.
3. Washington. Love the McNabb move.
4. Philadelphia. Hate the McNabb move.
Monday, April 05, 2010
McNabb now a Redskin
 |
| McNabb |
So much for Redskins head coach's Mike Shanahan's decree about his QB position being an open competition. So much for Jason Campbell's shot at retaining his starting job.
Side subject here. Know how Campbell found out about the McNabb trade? A reporter filled him in on the events. Could not anyone from the Redskins front office had a shred of decency to alert Campbell of the team's decision? Here's how that went down according to John Keim of the Washington Examiner.
Me (Keim): Did you hear about what happened?So much for being forthright with your players.
Jason: What?
Me: The Redskins traded for Donovan.
Jason: Really? Ummm... I didn't know that, man.
Me: I'm sorry I had to be the one who told you. I can't believe they didn't tell you.
Jason: No, that's the first I heard of it. ... I'd better go call my agent.
When I called back later, it went to voice mail. His mailbox was full.
Does this provide McNabb a proper or better opportunity to get to another Super Bowl? No. Not at all. Actually, Arizona or San Francisco would have been better places for McNabb to achieve that. Apparently, they either didn't make an offer or they didn't make a good enough offer. Washington had that coveted top 42 pick the Eagles desired. The Oakland Raiders and the Buffalo Bills were "in the running", too. Both of those choices were most likely shot down by Reid. He wanted to show McNabb some respect and you know McNabb had to have a say in the deal. Maybe Donovan sees something in the Redskins that I don't.
This deal also speaks of the high regard the Eagles organization has for both Kevin Kolb and Michael Vick if they are willing to depart with McNabb. Now, Philly has one QB who has all of two NFL stats and another QB who has been on the shelf for a couple of years. Not good odds for the Eagles, but Andy Reid is showing a willingness to finally move forward.
One last thing. I felt McNabb never got a fair shake in Philly. The Eagles themselves did, but the fans didn't. I know fans in Philly can be harsh (they booed Santa for crying out loud), buthey booed when McNabb was drafted and cheered when he was injured. The criticized his every play with a microscope. I know they want a winner, but I guess leading a team to 5 NFC Championship games and a Super Bowl just isn't good enough.
If the Redskins were to get to the Super Bowl this season, how would the fans in Philaelphia react? And will they give McNabb the respect he deseves like Reid did in making this deal?
Saturday, March 27, 2010
McNabb Available
Update: According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Oakland Raiders are the "favorite" for acquiring McNabb.
Your favorite NFL team can have Donovan McNabb for a top 42 draft pick. The Philadelphia Eagles have made it known that McNabb's services are available for the right price. McNabb would rather stay in Philly, but if he is dealt, he says Minnesota is his preference.
That creates a stir. The Vikes can do it. They do have the 30th overall pick and there's always that drama the accompanies Brett Favre. The Vikings would be rid of all of that if they made the deal. With all the latest talk about this possibly happening, don't think for a minute that this would push Favre into a decision. It's not.
Minnesota isn't the only team that could use Donovan McNabb. Interested? These teams should be.
1. Buffalo - The Bills have an extreme need at QB. Using Trent Edwards and Ryan Fitzpatrick last season didn't quite get the job done. But, the Bills need more than just help at the QB position. There are other needs that cannot be passed over. I don't think the #9 overall pick would be sent, but Buffalo does have the 41st overall selection. The Bills just don't have a offensive line to protect McNabb. Decent running backs and a good receiving corps.
2. Oakland - So JaMarcus Russell has reportedly shed a few pounds and is in the best shape he's ever been in during his NFL career. The Raiders needed this commitment a couple of years ago (at least) from the former #1 overall selection. You know you'll get that from day one with McNabb, but the Raiders may not be the best option. Like Buffalo, Oakland has other gaps...and the 39th overall pick. The Raiders are interested.
3. Carolina - Matt Moore? Really? Is Moore better than Donovan McNabb? The Panthers are a good fit. Great running game and a Pro-Bowl receiver. What's not to like? Carolina doesn't have a draft pick until #48. They traded 2010's first round pick (to San Francisco) during the '09 draft to select Everett Brown. There is a chance Philly could give on that top 42 "demand" if Carolina could add a player plus that 48th overall selection.
Your favorite NFL team can have Donovan McNabb for a top 42 draft pick. The Philadelphia Eagles have made it known that McNabb's services are available for the right price. McNabb would rather stay in Philly, but if he is dealt, he says Minnesota is his preference.
That creates a stir. The Vikes can do it. They do have the 30th overall pick and there's always that drama the accompanies Brett Favre. The Vikings would be rid of all of that if they made the deal. With all the latest talk about this possibly happening, don't think for a minute that this would push Favre into a decision. It's not.
Minnesota isn't the only team that could use Donovan McNabb. Interested? These teams should be.
1. Buffalo - The Bills have an extreme need at QB. Using Trent Edwards and Ryan Fitzpatrick last season didn't quite get the job done. But, the Bills need more than just help at the QB position. There are other needs that cannot be passed over. I don't think the #9 overall pick would be sent, but Buffalo does have the 41st overall selection. The Bills just don't have a offensive line to protect McNabb. Decent running backs and a good receiving corps.2. Oakland - So JaMarcus Russell has reportedly shed a few pounds and is in the best shape he's ever been in during his NFL career. The Raiders needed this commitment a couple of years ago (at least) from the former #1 overall selection. You know you'll get that from day one with McNabb, but the Raiders may not be the best option. Like Buffalo, Oakland has other gaps...and the 39th overall pick. The Raiders are interested.3. Carolina - Matt Moore? Really? Is Moore better than Donovan McNabb? The Panthers are a good fit. Great running game and a Pro-Bowl receiver. What's not to like? Carolina doesn't have a draft pick until #48. They traded 2010's first round pick (to San Francisco) during the '09 draft to select Everett Brown. There is a chance Philly could give on that top 42 "demand" if Carolina could add a player plus that 48th overall selection.Saturday, January 09, 2010
Eagles and Cowboys - Round 3
In what many term the "ugliest rivalry in the NFL", the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys resume that this evening in a Wild Card playoff game at Jerry's Playpen.Before we delve too deep into that game, if you wish to catch a view of the New York Jets/Cincinnati Bengals matchup, click here.
You hear said every year that it's hard to best a team three times. Not true. It has happened 19 times leading up to tonight's game. On 12 occassions, the team that won the first two games, also won the third. In this day and age of the extreme usage of stats, that's a telling one.
The game.
Philadelphia: These guys almost looked like they didn't care to really be in a gae last week. I found that surprising considering if the Eagles had won, tis game would be in Philly instead of Dallas, or the Funhouse of Jerry. Does it really matter? Not if the Eagles show up.
The major conern I have with the Philly offense is that they may be geared a bit too much for the big play. The Eagles only averaged 24 rushing attempts per game during the regular season while they averaged 34.6 pass attempts a game. That translated into a time of possession of 28:14, 28th in the league. If you've watched the Eagles play this season, you know they are without a doubt a pass-first offense. And head coach Andy Reid wouldn't have it any other way. That shouldn't be a major issue tonight considering where the game is being played, but a lack of balance could present difficulties for Philly.
Wide receiver DeSean Jackson has been pointed as the "X factor" when Philly has the ball, but I'm looking to two others, WR Jeremy Maclin and TE Brent Celek (left). Maclin and Celek both have to find the creases and seams in the Cowboys defense to take pressure off Jackson and QB Donanvan McNabb. If either of them can establish a position on the field, that should enable Jackson to get open. Plus, it's not so bad to utilize Maclin's speed and/or Celek's presence. The Cowboys TE Jason Witten may be going to the Pro Bowl as a backup to Vernon Davis, but Celek should be there.There's been something missing with the Eagles defense more than just Jim Johnson and Brian Dawkins. The Eagles have been ravished with injuries to the linebacking unit the whole season, but new DC Sean McDermott has done a very good job with all the adversity. The one thing that can be hard to defend is a truly balanced offense, and Dallas has just that.
For Philly, the defensive line must produce pressure on Cowboys QB Tony Romo. They must rattle his confidence because Romo's cofidence has to be at a career high. If McDermott can dial up a scheme that shatter Romo's confidence, Romo jusy may revert to his past December and playoff self we're used to seeing. Eagles DE Trent Cole will be the guy to watch.
One last bit of info. The Eagles finished 2nd in turnover ratio with a +15. Romo, playoffs, turnovers. Get the picture.
And on the Dallas side...
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday Night Wrap-up - Eagles/Redskins
27
V 
17
V 
17
1. The game, as a whole, was anything but a clean game. The Redskins will receive more scrutiny for the lack of execution (6 sacks, 4 turnovers, missed redzone chances), but Philly didn’t exactly run over Washington either. At times, the Eagles looked as if they were still in a contest against the Raiders (last week’s opponent). If not for DeSean Jackson (left), there may not have been any offense from the Eagles.2. Both offenses were dealt serious setbacks in the game. First was Philadelphia losing RB Brian Westbrook due to a concussion. That is not an injury to take lightly and the Eagles didn’t. However, I can’t be the only one that thinks that Westbrook gets injured on a weekly basis. Look at the injury the ‘Skins were dealt. TE Chris Cooley, the team’s best offensive player, broke his ankle.
3. ESPN’s Steve Young said it best when he pointed out that Washington Redskins have “inherent, deeper problems”. Washington’s defense has pretty much help up its end of the bargain and that explains why we tilt are views to the offense. But don’t be fooled. One reason for the problems is due to the money Washington spends on free agents, they cannot “afford” a more talented overall roster. Sure, Albert Haynesworth is about the best defensive lineman in the NFL, but exactly how talented is the #4 WR?
4. Changing the “play caller” was not the difference, although the person calling the plays was recently calling bingo. That’s a story that will never stop. And Washington’s “front office”, if you can call it that, is doing nothing to steer our opinions elsewhere.
A lot of fans of the Eagles, Giants, and Cowboys are tickled that the Redskins are going through such a rough patch. That’s one less team their favorite has to worry about.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Vick's busy day begins with good news
Michael Vick's Thursday started out in a good way, but let's see how it ends.
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court approved Vick's plan to pay back creditors $20 million and arise from bankruptcy. Vick and his fiancee left the courthouse to catch a flight to Philadelphia for his preseason and Eagles debut that takes place later this evening.
Regarding his hearing, Vick said, "I'm happy it's over. I can move on with my life."
The fact that the plan was approved is a major stepping stone for Vick. One lawyer cited that Vick gaining a contract to play in the NFL as "a huge development in the case". Vick will also have to liquidate about $9 million in assets (houses, boats and some expensive SUVs), but not pay the remaining balance while in his first year with Philadelphia.
Upon Vick's return to Philly, he will be preparing for his reintroduction to the NFL against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Earlier in the week, it was stated the first team offense playing about three quarters and backup quarterback Kevin Kolb would be playing the fourth quarter. How much of Vick will we see? I think we'll see a lot of Vick if he shows something to Eagles head coach Andy Reid.
So how is Vick feeling about the game tonight? "I'm excited about the game," he said.
I'll be excited for two reasons. First, I'm anxious to see if he's lost any football skills. Second, I'm wondering what kind of a reception he will receive from the Philly fans. They booed Santa.
The U.S. Bankruptcy Court approved Vick's plan to pay back creditors $20 million and arise from bankruptcy. Vick and his fiancee left the courthouse to catch a flight to Philadelphia for his preseason and Eagles debut that takes place later this evening.
Regarding his hearing, Vick said, "I'm happy it's over. I can move on with my life."
The fact that the plan was approved is a major stepping stone for Vick. One lawyer cited that Vick gaining a contract to play in the NFL as "a huge development in the case". Vick will also have to liquidate about $9 million in assets (houses, boats and some expensive SUVs), but not pay the remaining balance while in his first year with Philadelphia.
Upon Vick's return to Philly, he will be preparing for his reintroduction to the NFL against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Earlier in the week, it was stated the first team offense playing about three quarters and backup quarterback Kevin Kolb would be playing the fourth quarter. How much of Vick will we see? I think we'll see a lot of Vick if he shows something to Eagles head coach Andy Reid.
So how is Vick feeling about the game tonight? "I'm excited about the game," he said.
I'll be excited for two reasons. First, I'm anxious to see if he's lost any football skills. Second, I'm wondering what kind of a reception he will receive from the Philly fans. They booed Santa.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)