Inside the Iggles

Check out Kait's Games

2009-07-13T23:08:00.001-04:00

For fun free games check out Kait's Games.

No credit cards, no sign ups, no strings attached.

New games daily.

Come check out Kait's Games

Inside the Iggles Has Moved...

2007-11-20T05:59:00.000-05:00

Inside the Iggles has joined up with Fan-sided, and has a brand new site. From now on all posts for ITI will be at http://insidetheiggles.com/.

The blog has a great new look, and I hope everybody likes it.

If you are currently linked to ITI, I would just ask that you please update to the new URL.

I hope to see everybody at http://insidetheiggles.com/.

Eagles Fry Fish 17-7

2007-11-18T17:13:00.000-05:00

McNabb Hurt Again:

After throwing two early interceptions, Donovan McNabb got knocked out of the game by a take down from a blitzing Dolphins corner. McNabb sprained his right ankle, almost exactly one year away from when he tore his ACL in the same leg. X-rays were negative, but Donovan sat out the rest of the game. Right now his status for next week is uncertain.

Feeley Gets Revenge:

A.J. Feeley stepped in for the injured McNabb, and threw the third Eagles interception of the game. After that mistake Feeley settled down. He completed 13 of 19 passes, for 116 yards, and 1 touch down. Feeley did a good job of spreading the ball around, hitting eight different receivers.

A.J. was traded to Miami in 2004 for a second round pick(ended up being Reggie Brown), and was once considered the franchise QB. Feeley struggled in Miami, and was traded away to San Diego. After a brief stint there Feeley was released in 2006, and the Eagles quickly brought him back to Philadelphia. Now Feeley got his chance to stick it to his former team, and succeeded in defeating them. Dolphins fans must really hate him.

Another Huge Goal Line Stand:

For the second week in a row, the Eagles defense was put to the test. The Dolphins had a first-and-goal from the one yard line, and things looked bad for Philadelphia.

On first down they ran Jesse Chatman up the middle, but the Eagles defense burst through the line, and tackled him for a 1 yard loss. On second down John Beck dropped back, and made a pretty nice pass, but Takeo Spikes was able to break it up. The Dolphins chose to run again on third down, and the Eagles gang tackle Jesse Chatman.

After a timeout, Dolphins head coach Cam Cameron decided to go for it on 4th-and-goal down 10 points late in the fourth quarter. The play was an outside toss to Chatman, and DE Juqua Thomas was all over it. Chatman danced backwards, and was tackled for a 13 yard loss.

The Eagles took over on downs, and this great defensive series basically sealed the game.

Career Day For B-West:

Brian Westbrook is just amazing. He continues to show how valuable he is to the team every week. Andy Reid fed Westbrook the ball early, and often. So much so, that he rushed for 148 yards, a career best. Westbrook broke a few big runs, and is simply just the best player on the team. I don't know where this team would be without Westbrook.

Kearse Deactivated:

The news had come out earlier in the week, that Juqua Thomas would be starting over Kearse, but I really did not think they would not play Kearse at all. He may be a little banged up, but it seems he has completely fallen out of favor with the coaching staff. It will be interesting to see if Kearse plays next week against New England.

Starting in his place, Juqua Thomas has done a nice job. He really has become a great pick up for the Eagles. Thomas was on the streets looking for a job a few years ago, and now is a starter. Ironically it was Jevon Kearse who convinced the Eagles to try out Thomas, as Juqua was an old friend of his back in Tennessee.

Stupid Penalties By Smith:

On the Eagles first possession, Andy Reid called a flea-flicker play, that was perfectly executed for a touch down to Reggie Brown. Except the play was called back by a stupid holding penalty on L.J. Smith. Smith had help outside from Brent Celek, and there was no reason to grab onto Jason Taylor's jersey. The drive then ended in a McNabb interception.

Later in the game Smith made another bonehead play. A.J. Feeley fired a touch down pass to wide receiver Jason Avant, and after the play L.J. was called for a 15 yard personal foul penalty. Luckily the penalty was after the play, and enforced on the kickoff, but it still hurt the team. The Dolphins then got great field position, and were almost able to score on that drive.

If L.J. wants more money, he needs to stop killing this team with stupid mistakes. A big fumble last week, and this week he makes 2 stupid penalties. That is just unacceptable.

Special Teams Still Suck:

The special teams coverage teams showed that they still suck today. Early in the second quarter, speedy return man Tedd Ginn made one man miss, got some good blocks, and out ran the punter for an 87 yard punt return touch down. It was Ginn's first return TD of his short career.

The special teams has been terrible at covering kickoffs, and punts most of the season. I don't get how it has gotten so bad, because they used to be great at it(a few years ago). Now I see why Dawkins went out to cover the kickoff against Washington. Even he knows they suck.

Buck Air Born Against Miami 03'

2007-11-17T23:21:00.000-05:00

Remember this play? What an awesome game that was.

Playbook: Eagles vs Dolphins

2007-11-17T19:08:00.000-05:00

Westbrook To Holdout?

2007-11-16T10:53:00.000-05:00

Storylines already promising to punctuate the Eagles' offseason are Donovan McNabb's fate in Philadelphia, Andy Reid's ongoing crisis at home and the impending free agency of tight end L.J. Smith.

Brian Westbrook's contract situation could be another side story -- or perhaps even more attention-catching than the other three.

In his weekly press conference, Westbrook hinted Wednesday that his contract might need some reworking, lest the Eagles want another ugly holdout situation come training camp.

Westbrook danced around the question of whether or not the five-year, $25-million pact he signed in 2005 that included a signing bonus of $6 million remains fair market value.

"The contract I signed back then, it made sense for me at that point," Westbrook said. "Right now, I try not to get into contract numbers and contract talk right now. We're focusing on trying to win football games. For this team, we don't want anything to distract us from doing that."

The Eagles play winless Miami on Sunday afternoon at Lincoln Financial Field.

Westbrook held out of training camp in 2005 before the Eagles negotiated an extension.

Helping Westbrook is his age (28) and ascent into the prime of his career. The Eagles haven't batted an eyelash at showing the door to players over 30 seeking contract extensions.

But they have extended contracts of peak performers early in their careers. Four years remained on McNabb's contract when the Eagles awarded him a 12-year extension in 2002. Last year, the Eagles locked up Trent Cole, Mike Patterson, Reggie Brown and three offensive linemen with long-term contracts. Of the six, four were in their second year with the team.

Since signing a contract in 2005, Westbrook has emerged as one of the league's top all-around backs, and his durability is less of a question mark. He went over the 1,000-yard rushing mark last season for the first time, totaling 1,917 offensive yards and 11 touchdowns, both career highs, while playing 15 games and both postseason games.

Westbrook is on pace to eclipse those marks this season. His 1,219 yards from scrimmage are second-best in the NFL, along with his 6.1 yards-per-touch average. His three touchdowns against the Redskins on Sunday gave him nine for the season.

But the short life span of NFL running backs almost guarantees that Westbrook's only shot to land a windfall similar to LaDainian Tomlinson's eight-year, $60 million contract with San Diego or Larry Johnson's six-year, $45-million deal with Kansas City has already passed.

"I think any player -- offense, defense, any position -- looks at the contract and tries to maximize the money they get, because you never know what's going to happen in the future," Westbrook said. "You never know what's going to transpire. There's nothing guaranteed in the NFL except for your signing bonus, so you try to maximize that as much you can."

>>TheNewsJournal

Looks like another bargain contract for the Eagles is going to blow up in their face. Please don't pull a T.O. Westbrook. Everybody knows you are better than that.

BANG! Cartoon Radio Hour

2007-11-15T22:56:00.001-05:00

ITI is adding this podcast player on the sidebar of the BANG! Cartoon Radio Hour. The player looks like this:

It will be on the right sidebar, with the latest BANG! Cartoon Banner. Listen to a few shows. These guys are funny. You will laugh your ass off. This is one of the best podcasts out there.

Also don't forget about BANG! Cartoons.

Eagles Sign Therrian Fontenot

2007-11-15T20:17:00.000-05:00

Eagles Team signs Fontenot to practice squad
Tue, 13 Nov 2007 13:05:28 -0800

The Philadelphia Eagles announced they have signed free-agent CB Therrian Fontenot (Browns) to the practice squad Tuesday, Nov. 13. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

>>KFFL

Nothing major. Just a practice squad move. SS Erick Harris was waived to make room for Fontenot.

Here is a little something about him.

Jevon Kearse Benched

2007-11-15T20:06:00.000-05:00

He spent the first three years of his career as a backup to Jevon Kearse in Tennessee. For most of the past two-and-a-half seasons, he's been Kearse's backup in Philadelphia.

Now, Juqua Thomas replaces Kearse as the starter at left defensive end. Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson made the announcement at his press conference Thursday.

"Trent (Cole) is playing at a high caliber, no question about it. J.T. is playing very well. Those two right now they're two of our better ends in the pass rush. It's as simple as that and they're getting more time than (Darren) Howard and Jevon. No secret. J.T. is getting good pressure and so is Trent," Johnson said.

For all intents and purposes, the 29-year-old Thomas has been the unofficial starter for weeks. The Redskins opened in a two tight-end set last week, a formation which called for rookie Victor Abiamiri to start in only his second NFL game. However, Thomas took most of the snaps. He's totaled four sacks this season and since 2006 he is second among all undrafted players with 11.5 sacks (Chicago's Adewale Ogunleye, 16.5), according to Stats Inc.

"It's going to be a big challenge," said Thomas.

Kearse started the first eight games of the season. The three-time Pro Bowl end battled back from a left knee injury which sidelined him for all but two games last year. However, he is not 100 percent healthy. Kearse has had to have his knee drained twice this season, the last time was prior to the Dallas game.

"It's football. That's how it was when I came in. That's how it will be when I'm gone. It's a part of the game," Kearse said after Thursday's practice.

Thomas originally signed with the Titans as a rookie free agent in 2001. He accumulated five sacks over four years as the backup to Kearse, Carlos Hall and Kevin Carter. Thomas joined the Eagles during training camp in 2005 and had a phenomenal 10-tackle performance in the season finale. Thomas re-upped for one more season and had a career-high six sacks with another 1.5 in the two playoff games. On the first day of free agency in 2007, Thomas was re-signed by the Eagles to a five-year deal.

Johnson added that Howard, who has primarily played as a defensive tackle in the nickel package, is strictly a right defensive end and should see more snaps this week as Cole's backup. Howard made two big stops during the goal line stand in the fourth quarter of last Sunday's win that held the Redskins to a field goal and allowed the Eagles the opportunity to come back and win.

>>HomePage

Dawkins A Special Player

2007-11-15T13:38:00.000-05:00

The Eagles needed Sunday's win over Washington desperately, and when a team is desperate, crazy things happen.

Crazy things like a six-time Pro Bowl safety covering kickoffs.

After Brian Westbrook's incredible 57-yard touchdown potentially saved Philadelphia's season, Brian Dawkins didn't want to see the kickoff coverage unit cough up the lead. That's why when they took the field to kick the ball back to the Redskins, Dawkins was with them - for, according to his memory - the first time in seven or eight years.

"That was just something that was a spur of the moment type thing; something that I wanted to do to help out," Dawkins said. "If I made the play, great; if I didn't, then hopefully I'd be out there to help the guys out and hopefully not allow a big play to happen."

Dawkins said that after deciding he was going to cover the kick, there was no way he was staying on the sideline.

"I just felt like it was something I had to do and wanted to do. I didn't really ask to go in, I said that I was going in," Dawkins said. "That's not a slight of the coaches or like I'm bullying anybody, but that's just the way I felt. I wanted to be out there, so that's what happened."

What if one of the coaches had tried to keep him on the sideline?

"Honestly, I probably would have snuck out there," he said.

>>PhiladelphiaEagles.com

L.J. Smith Likely Gone Next Season

2007-11-14T19:43:00.000-05:00

Looks like L.J. Smith is still unhappy about not having a new contract. He has not held out, but he has voiced his displeasure several times with his contract situation. Today he gave his latest thoughts about it:

If you think tight end L.J. Smith will re-sign with the Eagles after the season, you might want to think again.

“Am I optimistic about being here again? No. I’m not optimistic about it,” said Smith, who is eligible to be a free agent after the season. “Right now I’m looking at possibly being on another team.”

Asked if there have been discussions regarding a new deal, Smith said there has been “nothing significant.”

After spending much of the season recovering from a sports hernia/groin injury, Smith scored his first touchdown of the season Sunday. His goals for the rest of the season?

“I think No. 1 finish up healthy. And secondly perform well when I’m out there,” he said.

“It’s really important for me personally, I’m going to help the team obviously – but for me personally it’s very important for me to finish up strong.”

>>ComcastSportsNet

Well sounds like the front office has made up their mind, and L.J. knows it. Guess everybody can expect another big name player to leave next season. The Eagles offense really seemed to take off against Washington, when L.J. started to get involved. I thought it opened up everybody else, and kept Washington off balance. Will Matt Schobel, and Brent Celek bring the same thing? I doubt it.

Pretty selfish of Smith to be saying this publicly though. He could at least pretend to be concerned about the team, and not so wrapped up in his contract matters. I wonder if he will even get the money he thinks he is worth. It is always a risk to test free agency. It worked out great for Michael Lewis, and Jeff Garcia. Not so well for Rod Hood, and Donte Stallworth.

Just expect L.J. to be gone either way.

QB Change for Phins

2007-11-14T14:09:00.000-05:00

Coach Cam Cameron has decided to make a quarterback change for Sunday's visit to Philadelphia and give rookie John Beck his first career start in place of Cleo Lemon, said a source close to the team.

Cameron notified the quarterbacks of his decision this morning. The determination to start Beck seemed to signify a change of heart since he met with his quarterbacks on Tuesday.

A source said Lemon left the meeting thinking he would be making his fifth consecutive start, while Cameron made it clear that Beck should be ready for his first game action if Lemon and 0-9 Dolphins were to struggle.

Lemon also left the meeting aware that Beck will become the starter at some point because the team needs to evaluate him this season.

Later Tuesday, Cameron telephoned Lemon and told him he wanted to give his decision some more thought. Cameron told Lemon Wednesday Beck would handle all of the snaps with the first-team offense this week. Beck has shared snaps equally with Lemon in practice recently.

Beck primarily ran the scout team even after veteran Trent Green suffered a season-ending concussion Oct. 7 at Houston. Cameron accelerated the learning process for Beck, the 40th selection in April's draft, during the recent bye week, after Miami's Oct. 28 loss to the New York Giants in London.

Lemon is 0-4 as a starter for the Dolphins. But the past two defeats have been by three points, including Sunday's 13-10 loss to Buffalo on a last-minute field goal.

In the third period, fans wanted to see the rookie quarterback — many chanted, "We want Beck!" — but Lemon responded by leading the Dolphins on a franchise-record, 18-play touchdown drive that covered 80 yards and ate up almost 10 minutes.

Lemon, however, finished with his lowest passer rating this season, 66.9, as he completed 16 of 29 passes for only 131 yards. He was 3- of-8 for 25 yards in the final period and couldn't move the Dolphins 20 yards into field-goal range in the final minute.

Lemon also was tackled for a safety in the third quarter that cut Miami's lead to 3-2.

The Dolphins drafted Beck hoping he could become the club's long-term starter.

Cameron, who worked with NFL quarterbacks for eight seasons before becoming a head coach, might want to play Beck simply to see if he can handle the job. Armed with that knowledge, the Dolphins could decide how to use their first-round draft pick, which now projects to be the first overall.

>>PalmBeachPost

Eagles Redskins Complete Game

2007-11-13T22:23:00.000-05:00

Hanson outshines James

2007-11-13T19:30:00.000-05:00

The only question is ... What took so long? Defensive backs coach John Harbaugh walked over to Joselio Hanson at halftime Sunday and told him he was going into the game at nickel cornerback, replacing the struggling William James.

Hanson responded with a solid second half, as the Eagles rallied from nine points down to beat the Redskins, 33-25.

James got beat twice for 31-yard catches by James Thrash, the former Eagle who had just 74 receiving yards in his 16 previous games over two seasons.

"He just told me, "Let's go,' so I went in and did what I always do — play the best I can,” Hanson said. "I always study and prepare like I'm going to start, so I was ready. I'm always ready to play.”

James wears No. 21 worn previously by Pro Bowl corners Eric Allen and Bobby Taylor, but he doesn't play like them.

It's rare for defensive coordinator Jim Johnson to bench somebody mid-game, but the way things were going, he had no choice.

How much of a difference did Hanson make? In the first half, the Redskins averaged 8.7 yards per pass attempt. In the second, they averaged 5.0.

"They just threw the ball downfield better than I thought they would (on James),” Johnson said. "We gave up some big plays downfield.”

We did? Or James did?

"I think he had one of those bad days,” Johnson said. "We'll see what happens next week. He competes hard. He let (Thrash) get outside and that was the biggest thing. We knew they were going to do that. Will knew that, too. He's an aggressive player. We've still got to get (pass) pressure. It comes down to pressure, too.”

Hanson certainly didn't do anything to warrant less playing time.

"I felt good out there,” said Hanson, who was the nickel in the four games Lito Sheppard missed earlier this year, when James started. "I feel like I can play with anybody in the league. Will's a good player, but when I'm out there, I'm always confident I can do a good job.”

>>Burlington Times

GameDay: Eagles vs Redskins

2007-11-12T09:53:00.000-05:00

Eagles Scalp Skins

2007-11-12T07:37:00.000-05:00

Goal Line Stand Saved Season:

The Eagles defense had been on it's heels most of the game. The defensive line had gotten almost no pressure to this point, the secondary was brutal, and the linebackers were missing tackles.

The Redskins had a first and goal at the 2 yard line, after Donovan McNabb fumbled the ball a few play before. A Redskins score would put them up 9, and would have likely sealed the game.

The defense had enough. On six plays inside the five(a penalty in the middle) the Eagles defense rose to the occasion. They held the Redskins to a field goal, and gave the offense a chance to win the game.

This stand reminded me of Lito's interception against Carolina last year. A play that saved the Eagles season, and sparked the entire team. I only hope this has the same effect.

A Play To Remember:

After the goal line stand, the Eagles still had to score. Who do they turn to in situations like these? Brian Westbrook. Put the ball in Westbrook's hands, and let him do his magic.

On a perfectly executed screen play, McNabb tossed the ball to Brian over the heads of three defensive lineman. Then there were two devastating blocks by Shawn Andrews, and Jon Runyan. This got Westbrook into the clear, and he did the rest from there. A great cutback left, and Westbrook almost had a clear path to the end zone. As he dashed 50 yards or so, he made a cutback right to avoid the last possible tacklers, and scored.

This 57 yard amazing catch, and run was the play of the season for the Birds. It reminded me of the Tampa Bay play from last year, except this time there would be no miracle field goal. This time his great play will be remembered.

Westbrook had an awesome game. He rushed for 100 yards on 20 carries, he had 5 catches for 83 yards, and three total touch downs.

If the Eagles want to continue to win games, the formula is simple. Get the ball in Brian Westbrook's hands.

McNabb Showed Mobility:

Donovan looked like the Donovan of old. He was moving well in the pocket, he escaped, and run a few times. He even had some nice moves in the open field. It looks like the knee is starting to not be an issue. At least is wasn't on Sunday.

McNabb did not have a perfect game, as a few pass were nearly intercepted, but when you look at the final numbers he played well. He completed 20 of 28 passes for 251 yards, and 4 touch downs.

The offense scored 5 times, and looked a lot better than it has most of the season. The Eagles were successful in the red zone, and that was a great sign. The Birds need to build off this, and continue to make strides.

A Gutsy Call:

What a call by Andy Reid on 4th, and inches. The Eagles had fallen into a 3rd, and 21, and Donovan Fired a bullet to Jason Avant. They fell inches short of the first down, and as Andy Reid was standing there looking at the distance they needed, he decided to go for it.

Normally you always punt on 4th down at your own 39 yard line, but the Redskins offense had been moving all over the Eagles. Reid knew this, and could not afford to go down another score. He put faith in his guys that they could get the few inches, and they did.

The call was a QB sneak. Donovan Got behind Jammal Jackson, Todd Herremans, and Shawn Andrews, and just dove forward to get the first down. This eventually led to the Eagles scoring on a touch down pass to L.J. Smith.

The decision was huge, and Andy made the right one. This helped the offense gain confidence. Great job by Andy Reid.

FINALLY!:

Reggie Brown pointed to his wrist, to symbolize that it was about time he got in the end zone. Brown had a very slow start to the season, and there had been very high expectations from him. The past three games he has slowly become more involved, and yesterday he made a great adjustment to an under thrown McNabb pass. I'm not sure how the safety did not see the ball, but Reggie did, and was able to haul it in. It was great to see him score, and hopefully this will get the ball rolling.

Brown wasn't the only one to get their first touch down of the season. L.J. Smith found the end zone as well. L.J. has been banged up for most of the year recovering from his hernia surgery. He finally looks to be back to his old self. He made some nice grabs, and got a crucial touch down on third down in the red zone.

Smith did fumble once, which really hurt the team. It lead to Washington's first touchdown. I hate the way he holds the ball when he runs. He uses one arm, and does not even tuck it away. The ball is just resting on his forearm, and is not pressed against his body like it should be. L.J. has had the issue for a while now, and he needs to correct it already. Andy Reid should put him to fumble school, like Tom Coughlin did to Tiki Barber. Teach him a new way to carry the football, and make sure he sticks with it. You can not afford to have plays like that in the NFL.

Revenge Of James Thrash:

Yes that's right folks. It was not T.O. this time. It was James stinkin Trash. The same James Thrash who almost never made a play. The same guy who got punked by Carolina in the NFC Championship Game. He somehow managed to have a field day on the Eagles. Thrash had five receptions for 85 yards, and two touchdowns. That is right TWO touch downs. I think that is double the amount Thrash had for all of the 2003 season as a starter.

The Eagles secondary should be embarrassed for the game they had. Will James was abused once again. They really need to just cut him. He is becoming the weakest link on the team. Sheldon Brown even let Thrash get some catches. Lito Sheppard let 37 year old Keenan McCardell score a touch down.

They just had a really poor day collectively. The only one who made a play, was Quinton Mikell. He forced a fumble, and Joselio Hanson recovered.

I know I have ripped Hanson in the past, but he should be the nickle CB at this point. Will James is getting murdered out there. It is time to at least put somebody there who has some speed.

Has Joe Gibbs Lost It?:

I really respect the man, and understand he is already inducted into the hall of fame, but he did an awful job coaching this game.

The Redskins committed 11 penalties, including crucial third-down miscues, and again suffered from questionable clock management and play-calling. Coach Joe Gibbs had no timeouts left in the final crucial minutes, and a conservative call on a late third-and-goal virtually guaranteed the Eagles would have a chance to win.

I was very shocked at how poorly the Redskins managed the game.

Season Saved. For Now:

Just when I think the Birds are done, they pull me back in. This was not the most convincing victory, but the Eagles will take it. A win is a win. Get them anyway you can.

I really expected the Eagles to lose this game too. I had lost my faith in them, and they surprised me.

Next week the Eagles have to handle business against the 0-9 Miami Dolphins, because after that is a trip to New England.

A Stand To Save A Season

2007-11-11T20:07:00.000-05:00

It was three plays to save a season. Yes, even if the Eagles had lost in Washington this weekend they would have had a chance to make the playoffs, but realistically, every member of the defense knew what was at stake.

With its back against its own end zone – and the wall – and the Redskins only seven yards away from all but putting the game out of reach, the Eagles defense had to make a stand.

Three plays to save a season.

Eventually, three plays turned to six. Six snaps from inside the 10-yard line. Six times the Redskins attacked the goal line, trying to put the game – and maybe the Eagles – away. Six times, the defense stood firm, setting up Philadelphia's dramatic 33-25 win on Sunday.

"When all of the odds are against you and you are still fighting, that's character. You develop that when nobody is looking," linebacker Takeo Spikes said. "When you look back at the film you'll see a whole lot of guys doing the little things right and that was the emphasis this week. Doing the little things."

When the Redskins got the ball back after a Donovan McNabb fumble with 8:03 remaining and two point lead, the Eagles defense hadn't been doing too many of the little things right.

Washington had physically imposed its will upon the Eagles for much of the afternoon, and when Clinton Portis gashed the defense twice to set up 1st and 10 from the Philadelphia 7-yard line, he moved past the 100-yard mark.

The Redskins were counting on him to get seven more, but the Eagles defense simply wouldn't allow it.

"I was proud of our goal line defense. I thought they did a heck of a job. You don't like being down there but if you are down there you really have to get it after them," head coach Andy Reid said.

First and goal from the seven. The Redskins tried a toss left to Portis that was strung out by defensive tackle Mike Patterson, gaining only one yard.

Second and goal from the 6-yard line. Portis bulls his way off of right tackle Todd Wade, but meets defensive end Trent Cole and defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley after only a gain of 1 yard.

Third-and-goal from the 5-yard line. The Redskins tried their one and only pass of the entire series, and drew a defensive holding call which gave them a first down.

With a new set of downs and the ball on the 3-yard line, the Eagles defense had to do it all over again – with the pressure of a nasty running attack, a two-point deficit, a rapidly declining clock and a potential 3-6 record resting squarely on its shoulders.

"Everyone knew it. You could tell in guys' eyes," Bunkley said. "Even when they got the first down we knew that we could get back on the ball and make something happen and we did."

First and goal from the 3-yard line. Portis went off of left tackle Chris Samuels but is pulled down by Spikes and Darren Howard after only a gain of a yard. Timeout Eagles.

Second and goal from the 2-yard line. Howard and Jevon Kearse met Portis in the backfield for a loss of one. Timeout Eagles.

Third and goal from the 3-yard. A false start penalty on Chris Cooley was followed by a draw play that was snuffed out three yards short of the end zone by Spikes and cornerback Joselio Hanson. Third and final Eagles timeout.

Spikes said that he thought the timeouts, while called to leave as much time as possible for Donovan McNabb and the offense, actually helped the defense immensely.

"When you have a defense backed up against the goal you never want to give them a chance to breathe; get a chance to get together," he said. "We did, so we were able to kind of talk to each other and realize what was at hand."

What was at hand was a defining moment of the season so far. The Redskins settled for a 21-yard Shaun Suisham field goal. Two Brian Westbrook touchdowns later and the Eagles returned home to Philadelphia with a win, and hopefully much more.

"I hope that goal line stand will snowball for us," Spikes said. "I'm not just saying defensively but team-wise."

In the end, they could quite literally turn out to be, six plays to save a season.

>>HomePage

Reid and McNabb Deserve a Pass

2007-11-09T09:54:00.000-05:00

Get Rid Of Reid?:

The Eagles are off to a dreadful start this season. I doubt anybody expected a 3-5 record to this point of the season. While everybody is searching for answers, let me remind them of this.

Andy Reid is a great coach. Take a look at his body of work in Philadelphia.

In 2006, Reid overcame a 5-6 start and the loss of two of their most explosive players in quarterback Donovan McNabb and defensive end Jevon Kearse in leading the team to season-ending, five-game win streak to capture the NFC East division championship.

The 2004 Eagles clinched the NFC East title with five games remaining in the regular season and the #1 seed in the NFC playoffs after a 13-1 start. Along the way, Reid passed Greasy Neale (66) for the most wins in franchise history. The Eagles earned their first trip to the Super Bowl since 1980 after defeating Atlanta in the NFC Championship game.

In 2003, the Eagles overcame a 0-2 start and a slew of injuries to post their second consecutive 12-win season. During that season, Reid registered his 50th career win (in his 81st game) to become the fastest coach in team history to reach that milestone. A year earlier, Reid was the overwhelming choice as the NFL's coach of the year as the Eagles thrived without the services of McNabb to still capture home field advantage in the NFC playoffs.

After a 5-11 mark in his first season, Reid led the 2000 Eagles to the greatest turnaround in franchise history, finishing 2nd in the NFC East at 11-5 and earning a trip to the NFC Divisional Playoffs.

Reid's 8 playoff wins are most in team history and tied for 18th in league history. Of the 20 coaches who have won eight or more playoff games, only Vince Lombardi (10), Tom Flores (11), Jimmy Johnson (13), and Mike Shanahan (13) have manned the sidelines in fewer playoffs games than Reid's 14.

Andy's teams have never had back to back losing seasons.

What he has done here is more than impressive. Reid has built a foundation here, to have a lot of winning football teams.

To those who want Andy Reid gone, I ask you this. Who do you want to take his place? There are not very many good candidates even available. More than likely if Reid were to resign, Marty Morningweg would be promoted to head coach. Is that really the answer?

It's time to calm down this get rid of Reid nonsense now. Right now he is dealing with a family crisis, and fans should show support during this rough time. Reid will pull this team together again, and the Eagles will rise up once again.

McNabb Can Not Win:

No matter what Donovan McNabb says, he will be criticized by the media. There has been two days of stories about Donovan not taking the blame for the teams losses, and it is all based off one sentence from his press conference. McNabb has had to defend himself in his own blog, and he was even ripped for doing that.

The media makes a habit of taking McNabb's words out of context, to create a controversy. They especially like to pull these stunts when the Eagles are not doing well. When the Eagles are losing these stories seem to catch a lot more fire, then when the Eagles are doing well.

It truly is a no win situation for Donovan. If he does not answer the question, he gets ripped for that. If he speaks honestly he is told to shut up. If he gives a politically correct response, he is labeled a company man. No matter how he approaches the questions directed his way, there will be a negative story to follow.

McNabb is payed to play football, not worry about what to say in his press conference.

I know that McNabb is having a poor season, but people need to remember that he is still under a year removed from major knee surgery. Most athletes will tell you it takes about two years before you are fully right from an ACL. Donovan has to play through this to get better, and there is no other way around it.

We all know how well Donovan can play when healthy. Did everybody forget the 2004 Super Bowl season already? How about last year when Five was an early MVP candidate before getting hurt?

The same fans who voted McNabb the best QB in Eagles franchise history, are now calling for rookie Kevin Kolb to replace him. Does anybody really think Kolb is ready now? How about next year? I sure don't have faith in Kevin Kolb. I have never seen him play outside of the pre-season.

Ironically Kevin Kolb is the same pick that fans booed on draft day, and ripped ever since. Now people think he is the solution to this Eagles team?

I think people should be more careful for what they wish for. When things are going bad everybody wants to bench the QB and fire the head coach, but it is not the smart move in this case.

I would hate to see fans reaction when Kevin Kolb is the starting QB, and Marty Morningweg is the head coach.

BANG! Cartoons

2007-11-09T07:10:00.000-05:00

If you have not seen a BANG! Cartoon yet, you are missing out. These Cartoons are hilarious NFL parodys about recent NFL topics. Check out the latest BANG! Cartoon here.

Like What you see? Sign up for FREE to check out the archives. You will laugh your ass off for hours. There are even some very funny Cartoons about the Eagles.

Some other great things on the site you should check out are the BANG! Radio Hour Podcast, the BANG! Music Hour, the BANG! Forum, and The Mullettes.

This is an awesome site that everybody should check out.

>>BANG!Cartoon.com

Clinton Portis Playing Dress Up Again

2007-11-09T05:22:00.000-05:00

"CHOO CHOO"
Not sure what this is all about, but he sure does look gay.

>>DeadSkins.com

Reed ready to return as kick returner

2007-11-09T04:14:00.000-05:00

After weeks of underwhelming kickoff returns, the Eagles may finally be ready to let J.R. Reed out of the doghouse.

The fourth-year safety and kickoff return specialist was signed to his second Philadelphia stint just before the season began, only to be released a week later, after his fourth-quarter muffed punt cost the Eagles their season opener against Green Bay.

The team brought him back shortly thereafter, but he has not yet returned another kickoff, the role for which the Eagles originally drafted him back in 2004.

As running back Correll Buckhalter has continued to return kicks in workmanlike, unspectacular fashion, Reed has been a respectful but mystified member of the Eagles locker room, waiting for another chance to do what he does best.

..Continue Reading at the Courier Post Online>>

Saints Love Ex-Eagles

2007-11-08T18:54:00.000-05:00

The Saints signed linebacker Matt McCoy on Sunday and threw him onto kick coverage teams against the Jaguars, where he made a good late tackle to draw welcoming applause.

McCoy, a starter for the Eagles since he was drafted in the second round of the 2005 draft out of San Diego State, lost his starting job and was cut by Philadelphia last Monday..

McCoy drew a $7500 fine for a late hit on Vikings punter Chris Kluwe. McCoy missed time last year with a neck stinger and in 2006 due to hip and shoulder injuries. Undersized at 5'11", 230, McCoy makes up for his lack of bulk with a non-stop, motor. Aggressive sometimes to a fault, McCoy was a fast riser in the 2005 draft but was made expendable with the ascension of Omar Gaither and the trade for Takeo Spikes.

The Saints placed LB Alfred Fincher (concussion) on injured reserve, and McCoy took the place of the Saints' 2005 third round pick on kick coverage teams.

Donovan Clears The Air Again

2007-11-08T10:30:00.000-05:00

What seems to be a reoccurring theme, Donovan McNabb once again had to explain his comments from a recent press conference. This time he decided to do so on his Yardbarker blog:

I was surprised to hear that people were saying that I am not taking blame for us being 3-5. I did say in my press conference earlier today (http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=14381) that "I'm definitely not the whole reason why we lost these games" and "I'm not fully [to] blame for everything that goes on around here."

But I also said, "There are a lot of mistakes I've made. [Whether] it's throws I want back, [bad] decisions, whatever it may be, there are mistakes that I've made in every game- a lot of things that you're not used to doing, a lot of things that you know you can do better. Everybody makes mistakes. But, in this situation, there's no room for error, and that goes for each individual person. There's no room for error."

I wish it were easy to find out what is going wrong – then it would be easier to fix. Have I made mistakes? Yes. Do I expect more from myself? Absolutely yes. This is truly frustrating for me because I am giving all I have in practice, in film study, and in the games. I share a passion with Eagles fans to see this team win each week. It hasn't happened as often as we'd like thus far. I haven't given up on myself, our my teammates. And I certainly haven't given up on this season.

The media is really reaching with this story. After a bad game, they take one sentence from his entire press conference, and try to create controversy. They of course left out all the quotes where Donovan said that he could play better. Brian Westbrook even agreed with Donovan. This is what he said:

"The tough part about being a quarterback is that a lot of times you're going to get a lot of the praise when the guys are doing well. A lot of the situation is that you did a great job and you're going to get a lot of praise, some undue, but you're still going to get a lot of praise. When things are going badly, you're going to get a lot of people talking badly about you as well. In Donovan's situation, everything that goes wrong on this team is not Donovan's fault. Everything from the fumbles, to the interceptions, to the sacks, those are not all Donovan's fault, not all of them, not totally. Because it's a team sport, one man can't make a football team. He has some blame on some of those things, running backs have some blame, tight ends, wide receivers, offensive line has some blame, as well. Because he's a marquee guy and he's almost the face of the organization, he takes a lot of the blame for things."

I did not see this quote anywhere in the stories posted. I guess it would not be much a of a story, if they decided to put all the information in it. The fact is Donovan did not say anything wrong, and people need to stop worrying about what he says, and worry about how he plays.

If you did not see the full press conference, then check it out right here. Donovan McNabb's PC 10/07/07

Want Your Blog Reviewed?

2007-11-07T15:07:00.000-05:00

Bloggers who would like their blog to be reviewed, should check out Our Blog Review. Get an honest opinion about your blog, and at the same time promote your blog to others on this site.

>>Our Blog Review

Considine Out For Season

2007-11-07T14:36:00.000-05:00

The Eagles placed strong safety Sean Considine on the injured reserve list Wednesday due to a shoulder injury suffered Sunday night against Dallas. To replace Considine's spot on the 53-man active roster, Marcus Paschal was promoted from the practice squad.

The Eagles made two changes to their practice squad. In addition to Paschal's promotion, defensive end Marques Murrell was signed by the New York Jets. Strong safety Erick Harris and defensive end Xzavie Jackson were signed to the practice squad.

In his third season, Considine had started in all eight games and ranked sixth on the team with 47 tackles and an interception,

>>HomePage

Well you hate to see injuries, but Considine's play has been very poor this season. Quintin Mikell on the other hand has played very well in the absence of Brian Dawkins, and will start the remainder of the season at Strong Safety. If Mikell continues to play well, this could become a more permanent move. Considine has one year remaining on his contract, and could be gone after next year.

Marques Murrell must be feeling great. If you remember he had a monster game against the Jets in the pre-season. The Jets remembered that, and when they needed a pass rusher, they signed Murrel. Good to see him get a chance.

A third guy who gets a big shot is Marcus Paschal. Granted it will mainly be on special teams for now, but in the NFL you are only one hit away from starting.

Neckbeard Returns

2007-11-06T20:26:00.000-05:00

The Vikings have settled on a veteran quarterback, but it’s not St. Paul native Chris Weinke.

Former Eagles quarterback Koy Detmer, who along with Weinke worked out for the Vikings today at Winter Park, agreed to a contract. Detmer will serve as veteran insurance if Tarvaris Jackson and Kelly Holcomb are unable to go because of injuries.

If that’s the case Brooks Bollinger will get the start. Jackson suffered a concussion Sunday against San Diego and is still undergoing tests. Holcomb, meanwhile, is recovering from a neck injury.

Detmer is familiar with the Vikings system, having played under coach Brad Childress when Childress was the offensvie coordinator with the Eagles.

Detmer, 34, spent 10 seasons with Philadelphia after playing college football at Colorado. Detmer mainly served as Donovan McNabb’s backup and as a holder for kicker David Akers during his time with the Eagles.

>>AccessVikings

How Koy has survived in the NFL all these years is beyond me.

Eagles 2007 Season...

2007-11-06T16:03:00.000-05:00

Birds Will Stay $12.5 Million Under Cap

2007-11-06T14:51:00.000-05:00

The deadline for NFL teams to sign players and have a portion of their salary count against this year's cap is today at 4 p.m. Unlike previous years, however, the Eagles will not be taking advantage of that rule for a number of reasons.

One is that 19 of their 21 starters are signed beyond this season. The only two potential free agents after this season are tight end L.J. Smith and fullback Thomas Tapeh, and it is possible that neither player will be in an Eagles uniform a year from now.

Negotiations with Smith had not progressed for some time and had no chance of being renewed once the tight end required two groin surgeries and missed three of the team's first seven games. As for Tapeh, negotiations never began with the fullback.

Typically, the Eagles have targeted young players they feel are on the rise to tie up to long-term deals before this deadline. A year ago at this time, they signed defensive end Trent Cole and defensive tackle Mike Patterson to extensions through 2013 and 2015, respectively.

The Eagles might have considered doing that this year with second-year middle linebacker Omar Gaither, but team president Joe Banner said the new collective bargaining agreement does not allow teams to extend the contracts of second-year players.

The Eagles have three second-year starters, all on defense, but one of them is 2006 first-round pick Brodrick Bunkley, who is already signed through 2011. Gaither and starting strong-side linebacker Chris Gocong are signed through 2009.

Strong safety Sean Considine, who is in his first full season as a starter, is signed only through next season, but there are a few reasons the Eagles are not in a hurry to extend his deal. Quintin Mikell could replace Considine as the starting strong safety in the future. Eagles coach Andy Reid said Considine played sparingly in the second half last night because he suffered a shoulder injury.

Mikell, who signed a four-year contract in the off-season, impressed the Eagles' decision-makers during his five starts in place of injured free safety Brian Dawkins and has a chance to become a starter at some point in the future.

>>thePhiladelphiaInquirer

That deadline has past, and the Eagles signed nobody. According to BJ's Eagles Salary Cap page(very accurate) the Eagles are $12,499,220 under the cap. I guess after that Dallas debacle nobody deserves to get paid.

I know Banner must hate the new CBA rule that prevents you from extending a players contract in their second season. I am sure they had a low ball offer all ready for Omar Gaither. He probably would have taken it, considering the uncertainty in the NFL, and the fact that he was a late round draft pick.

Did the NFL do this, to stop teams like the Eagles from signing players before they reach their true market value? It sure does put a big wrench into how the Birds like to do business.

The Eagles wont win a Super Bowl this season, but they will win the salary cap award yet again. I believe this is fives years in a row now, time to start calling the Eagles a dynasty!

I guess that is the goal of the gold standard.

GameDay: Eagles vs Cowboys

2007-11-06T04:33:00.000-05:00

Cowboys Embarrass Eagles 38-17

2007-11-06T01:17:00.000-05:00

T.O. Gets His Revenge:

Eagles vs T.O. round 2 was a huge victory for WR Terrell Owens. T.O. stuck it to the Eagles by catching 10 passes for 174 yards, including a 45 yard touch down. He was a difference maker, and the Eagles secondary was pathetic trying to stop him.

Last year the Eagles shut down Owens in his return to the Linc, but this time T.O. gets his. As much as it pains me to say it, T.O. was the player of the game.

Defense?:

Did the defense even show up? Dallas scored 38 points, finished the game with a total of 434 yards, and went 8-12 on third down. The Eagles defense was constantly on it's heels. They did not just bend, they were completely broken down.

The worst part is they are not making many big plays. The defense had no sacks, no fumbles, and no answer for the Cowboys attack. The only big play made by the defense was a Lito Sheppard interception. Lito of course also left the game with a knee injury, and did not return.

Tony Romo signed a huge contract recently, and he proved he deserved it. He had an awesome game completing 20 of 25 pass attempts, for 324 yards, and 3 TDs. The Eagles defense never even layed a finger on him. There was no pressure from anybody all game, and Romo calmly hit his receivers.

The defense has been the best thing about this team. Other than the 97 yard debacle against the Bears, they had played great all season. Last night they stunk. They were completely embarrassing, and did nothing to even slow the Cowboys down. If the score was not so one sided, it could probably have even been worse

McNabb Was Bad:

Donovan had one of his worst games ever against the Cowboys. Through out his career, he has been a Cowboys killer. That was far from the case Sunday night.

On the first offensive play of the game, Donovan dropped back to pass. It appeared that nobody was open, Donovan held the ball way too long, and fumbled the ball while being hit from behind. McNabb has to throw that ball away. If the play is not there, then get rid of the football. That play basically summed up how the entire game went for the Eagles. It was disastrous.

Donovan also had two interceptions in the game. One was one of the worst passes I have ever seen. I have no idea what he saw, or what he thought he saw, but I saw a receiver double covered. For a guy who does not like to take very many risks, it is very puzzling as to why he thought he could fit a ball between these two. Again I go back to this. If the play is not there, find your check down, or throw it away. Do not try to make something out of nothing. More times than not, it will be a mistake.

Fourteen of Donovan's 27 completions went to Brian Westbrook. Westbrook is a better receiver than most RBs, but you can not make him 50% of the pass offense. You need to spread the ball around, and let other guys make plays. There were some other plays to be made, but Five missed them. He either did not see them, or had an errant throw.

The offensive line did have some breakdowns, and at times there may have been no open receivers, but the bottom line is Donovan has to be better.

Fans Were Weak:

Not that it really matters, but the fans were not there for this game. The first thing I noticed is the place was full of Cowboys fans. Every section had at least a few of them. A lot of people must have given up on the season, and sold their tickets online.

The crowd was still pumped until McNabb fumbled. Then it seemed like everybody was sitting on their hands. I went to smoke during halftime, and saw lots of people exiting the stadium. I know the Eagles were getting beat bad, but how do you leave any game at halftime? That blew my mind.

By the 4th quarter, the place was basically empty. Lots of Cowboys fans stayed, and very few Eagles fans were scattered throughout the stadium. Me, and my friend were the only two people left in our section with ten minutes left to go in the game.

I hear all the time from other fans, especially older fans, how great Eagles fans are, and how they always show up to every game, and I always believed that these were some of the best fans in the country.

When I stood up to scream on third down, people looked at me like I was crazy. The only time the fans ever got loud, was to boo Owens. Outside of that you would think the game was played in California. It was pathetic.

Season Is Over:

Well I think it has finally sunk in. The Eagles are just an average at best football team. They are in last place, and have already lost three division games. The division is well out of reach right now with 3 teams to climb, and the Cowboys at 7-1.

They did not just play bad to the Cowboys, they went up against a better team. The Cowboys beat the Eagles in every facet of the game, and you saw a superior team beat the Eagles.

Even if the Eagles were to make the playoffs(doubtful), they would stand no chance against the Cowboys, Patriots, Colts, and other top teams. So realistically speaking this season is over.

I can hear the calls for Kevin Kolb already getting louder. The rest of this football year is probably going to suck.

Terry Glenn Ruled Out

2007-11-04T03:38:00.000-05:00

INJURY UPDATE: RUNYAN, KEARSE PROBABLE; GLENN OUT FOR DALLAS

For the third day in a row, neither defensive end Jevon Kearse nor right tackle Jon Runyan participated in practice on Friday. Runyan is still battling a tailbone injury that has prevented him from practicing in each of the last two weeks.

He was able to play against both Chicago and Minnesota and is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Dallas, as is Kearse.

Wide receiver Jason Avant is listed as questionable with a groin strain that he suffered during practice this week.

"Jason Avant has a groin strain that he's working through. We think he'll be able to go, but we'll just see how he does here in the next couple days," Reid said.

The Cowboys are once again going to be without the services of wide receiver Terry Glenn, who has missed every game this season with a knee injury. Dallas could, however, get back cornerback Anthony Henry who has missed the last three games with a high ankle sprain. Henry is listed as questionable, but he did have limited participation in practice every day this week. Henry had four interceptions in the first three games of the season. He became only the second Cowboy in franchise history to have back-to-back games with multiple interceptions.

>>Home Page

Fines handed down on Eagles

2007-11-03T21:35:00.000-04:00

The Philadelphia Eagles' 23-16 victory over the Minnesota Vikings last Sunday afternoon has come with a price tag attached to it.

Literally.

Three Eagles defenders, including one who was waived the day after the game, have been fined a total of $20,000 by the league for their overaggressive play in the win. In addition, one Minnesota player has been sanctioned.

Eagles defensive end Juqua Thomas and former linebacker Matt McCoy were each fined $7,500. McCoy will be liable for the fine, a league spokesman said, even though the Eagles released him Monday afternoon. Philadelphia free safety Quintin Mikell and Minnesota middle linebacker E.J. Henderson were penalized $5,000 apiece.

Thomas was fined for a third-quarter play on which he sacked Vikings' quarterback Kelly Holcomb for an 11-yard loss but grabbed his facemask and pulled him down. Despite the fact Holcomb suffered a neck injury that knocked him out of the game, and has sidelined him for this week, Thomas was not penalized by game officials.

The fine against McCoy was also for a third-quarter play on which made a late hit on Vikings' punter Chris Kluwe. The infraction drew a 15-yard unnecessary roughness flag and a rebuke from teammates and coaches when McCoy returned to the Philadelphia sideline. A second-round pick in the 2005 draft, McCoy was waived the next day.

Mikell was fined for a first-quarter hit on Minnesota rookie wide receiver Sidney Rice after a 12-yard completion. The play elicited an unnecessary roughness penalty. The fine against Henderson was for a third-quarter facemask penalty assessed when the linebacker pulled down Eagles' tailback Brian Westbrook at the end of a six-yard run.

It is not yet known if any of the four players will appeal the fines.

>>ESPN.com

They fine you for any little hit now in the NFL. Pretty weak if you ask me.

T.O. Rips McNabb, Reid, Eagles

2007-11-03T14:39:00.000-04:00

Terrell Owens came out firing Friday and didn't stop until he ensured he would receive another rude reception in Philadelphia.

Two days after saying his feud with Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb was a thing of the past, the Dallas Cowboys receiver took repeated shots on his weekly radio show at McNabb and his former team.

"It's so evident that ever since I left nothing's been going right there," said Owens, ignoring the fact Philadelphia won the NFC East title last season. "I'm not saying I'm the sole reason, but when I was there we were very successful. Now it seems like everything's snowballing."

Owens played two seasons for the Eagles, helping them reach the Super Bowl in 2004. But Philadelphia cut him after the 2005 season, a campaign in which he tore apart the team's locker room with his contract demands and continual sniping at McNabb.

The Eagles stumbled out of the gate this season and will take a 3-4 record into Sunday's game with the 6-1 Cowboys. Despite his team's struggles, McNabb said recently the road to the division crown still goes through Philadelphia, even though a loss to Dallas would give the Eagles an 0-3 mark within the division.

"That's wishful thinking," Owens said on 790 The Ticket in Miami. "He has to be the only one thinking that way. The road to the Super Bowl has to come through Dallas, Texas. We'll have to see how things come out, but it doesn't seem like things are faring too well up there in Philly."

In addition to their poor play, the Eagles are also dealing with coach Andy Reid's messy personal life. On Friday, Reid said he planned to coach the team for the long term despite being chastised by a judge who likened the coach's home to a "drug emporium."

Reid's two sons received jail sentences Thursday for offenses that included a road-rage incident that involved flashing a gun at a fellow driver.

"I can't say I feel sorry for them," Owens said of the Eagles. "Obviously, with coach Reid's situation, I wish him well. Hopefully, he can get his kids and his family situation back in order. But other than that, I'm happy to be in the situation I'm in."

Eagles fans burned Owens' jersey in the parking lot at Lincoln Financial Field before the team's game with Dallas last season. The Eagles swept the Cowboys last season.

>>Express News

So much for the "more mature" T.O. His bi-polar must have kicked in again, because he has basically done a complete 180 from what he was saying a few days ago. He even stooped low enough to take a shot at Andy Reid for his family crisis. I never wish injury on another player, but with this jerk I make an exception. I hope Dawkins stretches him like Michael Irvin.

Andy Speaks On Family Troubles

2007-11-03T01:19:00.000-04:00

I really hate how the media is pounding this story so hard. I turn on WIP, and get disgusted by morons who question Andy Reid's parenting ability. Where do people get off criticizing a man's family? If you want to question his coaching ability, or personnel decisions, that's fine, but leave his family alone. There is no reason to comment on it.

Everybody goes through issues in life, and has their share of difficult times. The difference is when average person has problems, they are not broad casted on national television, printed in local newspapers, and debated on talk radio.

I feel terrible for Andy, and really wish the media would back off. Everybody should respect his privacy, and stop making this issue worse.

The majority of the media is nothing but a bunch of story hungry creeps, who make a living off others misery. Ratings are all that is important to media scum, and it makes me sick.

This is my message to everybody. Fans, and media included.

Leave Andy's Family ALONE! Either show your support, or STFU!

Roy Williams Takes Shot At McNabb

2007-11-03T01:01:00.000-04:00

It started innocently. Donovan McNabb said earlier in the week that
anyone's plans to win the NFC East have to go through Philadelphia. And most
Cowboys agreed with the quarterback, based on the five division titles the
Eagles have won in the last six years.

Until, that is, Thursday.

"Right now, they are in no position to talk about everything going
through Philly," Cowboys safety Roy Williams said of the 3-4 Eagles.

"Some teams went to Philly and beat them. No one is worried about 'You have to go through Philly.'

>>DallasNews.com

Thanks for the bulletin board material Roy. I doubt the Eagles really needed another reason to hate the Cowgirls, but you just gave them one.

Williams could have taken the high road, but obviously he is a classless punk. Why is he talking, when he is always out of position?

75 Seasons of Eagles Fans

2007-11-02T05:15:00.000-04:00

DALLAS SUCKS! T.O. SWALLOWS!

2007-11-01T22:24:00.001-04:00

These Are Not Boos of Love TO

2007-11-01T21:13:00.000-04:00

Terrell Owens was asked about the Philadelphia fans in a press conference Wednesday, and this is what he responded with:

"Those boos, they ain't really boos,'' he said, then smiled, playing to reporters prodding him to talk about Eagles fans. "There's a lot of love in those boos. They ain't got no choice but to boo me, because I'm on the other side. I guarantee you if I were to get traded to the Eagles right now, they'd love me. I loved it when I was there. Those are some great fans. When you're there, they love you. When you're on the opposite side, they're going to pretend they hate you.''

No TO those are not boos of love. Philadelphia HATES you with a passion. You betrayed the city, and went back on your word when you first came here. People here wish nothing, but the worst for you.

If Owens were to get hit by a bus tomorrow, Eagles fans would throw a party to celebrate. Right now I can't think of anybody more hated than TO in Philadelphia. Osama Bin Laden is more likely to get love here than you. TO can try to twist things in his own bi-polar mind all he wants, but he will know on game day that the fans have no love for him.

Here is some of the "love" he received in his first trip back to the Linc as a Cowboy:

Eagles Vikings Complete Game

2007-11-01T00:10:00.000-04:00

In case anybody missed it, here is the Vikings game. Enjoy.

Cole: NFC Defensive Player Of The Week

2007-10-31T02:20:00.000-04:00

Perched at right defensive end, Trent Cole donned his weekly green and white camouflage and set his sights on the Vikings during the Eagles' 23-16 victory over Minnesota, where he recorded a career-high 13 tackles, including his league-leading ninth sack of the season, also a career-high.

Cole's performance earned him the NFC Defensive Player of the Week Award for the first time in his career. Cole is the first Eagle to win the award since Brian Dawkins last December after the Eagles' 36-22 win over the Giants.

"He's tough right now, tough to stop," head coach Andy Reid said. "He plays relentless football, he was in for every snap in that game … He gives his 110 percent on every snap and players respect him for that, his teammates too."

Only in his third year as an Eagle, Cole has a sack in five of the last seven games and is on track to finish the season with 20.5 sacks which has put teams league-wide on notice. The attention is not recent, though. Prior to this year, Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre had told Reid how they had to account for Cole.

"He said, 'Hey, we were real concerned about 58. He has a phenomenal motor.' We saw it as a staff, but you're never quite sure what the other team sees," said Reid.

A fifth-round draft pick in 2005 from the University of Cincinnati, Cole originally arrived at the NovaCare Complex as a 235-pound player the team was unsure would be a linebacker or defensive end.

Three years and many trips to the weight room later, the 270-pound Cole has emerged as a definitive defensive end known for his speed, size, athleticism and motor.

"That's one thing we noticed when he was at Cincinnati," Reid added. "I think you've either got that or you don't. You can direct it in certain directions and become a better player. But, I think you're born with the motor."

..Continue reading at PhiladelphiaEagles.com>>

Kershaw Signed to Practice Squad

2007-10-31T02:12:00.000-04:00

A day after the team promoted Akeem Jordan, the Eagles replaced him on the practice squad with second-year linebacker William Kershaw. Jordan was promoted Monday after the team cut former second-round pick Matt McCoy.

The 6-foot-3, 240-pound Kershaw entered the league as a rookie free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2006. He spent the majority of his rookie season on the Chiefs practice squad before being promoted to their 53-man roster for the final regular season game and the AFC Wild Card game at Indianapolis, where he registered three special teams tackles. The 23-year-old Kershaw saw action in the Chiefs opening-day game at Houston this year before being released on September 19.

A native of Raeford, NC, Kershaw registered 204 tackles, 3 sacks and one interception during his collegiate career at Maryland.

>>Home Page

Gameday: Eagles vs Vikings

2007-10-30T00:27:00.000-04:00

B-Dawk Set To Return

2007-10-29T22:06:00.000-04:00

Free safety Brian Dawkins is on track to return to the field for Sunday's matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. After practicing with the scout team for the past two weeks, Dawkins will work with the first-team defense in practice this week said head coach Andy Reid during his press conference one day after Sunday's 23-16 win over the Vikings.

"The last couple of weeks you've seen him work with the scout team, this week he'll start off – unless something crazy happens in the next day or two – he'll start off with the defense and start working with them," Reid said.

If there are no setbacks, Dawkins could split reps with Quintin Mikell, who has started the last five games in Dawkins' absence. Reid said that Mikell's strong play makes integrating Dawkins back into the defense much easier.

"(Quintin has) done very well in there and it's not a situation where Brian would have to play every snap when he comes back," Reid said. "We can ease him back in there and get him started here."

Dawkins suffered a stinger injury during the Week 2 loss to the Washington Redskins. Even though he has missed most of the season Reid said that he believes Dawkins can get back to the level of play that has earned him six trips to the Pro Bowl.

>>Home Page

Matt McCoy Cut

2007-10-29T19:48:00.001-04:00

The Eagles cut backup linebacker Matt McCoy today. The second round pick from San Diego State has largely been a huge bust. He was deactivated for almost his entire rookie season, and played poorly as a starter last season.

The Eagles felt the need to replace him in the off season, by trading for Takeo Spikes. Spikes has played well, and McCoy had been designated to special teams. McCoy has a bonehead personal foul penalty for hitting the Minnesota punter in the back. The play took the Eagles out of Minnesota territory, and infuriated Brian Dawkins on the sidelines. Apparently this mistake was stupid enough for Andy Reid to kick him off the team.

Akeem Jordan was signed off the practice squad to take McCoy's spot on the roster.

This move means a few things to me. First I think that the Eagles are confident in the play of Takeo Spikes. He has a team option next year, and I believe the Eagles will pick that up.

The other thing this does, is send a clear message to the rest of the team. No more stupid mistakes. Bonehead plays like that are part of the reason the Birds are 3-4.

You can't shoot yourself in the foot constantly, and expect to win. Reid made an example out of McCoy. I think it should let everybody know that you either play the right way or you will be gone. It does not even matter if you were a high draft pick.

Amazing 15 Laterals For Win

2007-10-29T19:38:00.000-04:00

What a crazy play! Just like the coaches drew it up. Stanford Band has nothing on this.

Eagles Beat Vikings 23-16

2007-10-28T20:34:00.000-04:00

A Win is a Win:

This was not a dominating performance, or a very convincing win by any means. In the end though all that matters is that the Eagles leave Minnesota with a W. They have let a few of those get away this year, and this was a much needed win.

At the end of the year nobody asks who you beat, or how bad you beat them, they just ask how many games did you win. At this point the Eagles will take them any way they can get them.

Red Zone Improves:

The Eagles are scoring touch downs believe it or not.

The offense was not great, but much improved in the red zone. Some creative play calling helped out.

I loved the shovel pass to Westbrook. They play had great design, and it worked perfectly. Jason Avant lined up in the backfield between Westbrook, and Tapeh. Then Avant motioned to the slot, bringing the Vikings MLB with him. McNabb sold the fake very well, and Westbrook just waltzed into the end zone. Plays that are designed that well, usually tend to work. Give a lot of credit to Andy Reid, and Marty Morningweg for that one.

Later in the game the Eagles scored again when Brian Westrook went air born, and dived over the Vikings defensive line. Westbrook reminds me of Priest Holmes the way he does that jump.

Even though he did not have a great day on the ground, Westbrook was still a huge factor. So much that safety Darren Sharper got jacked up by Jason Avant paying such close attention to 36. Westbrook's two Red Zone scores were the difference in the game.

Hopefully the team can build off this, and do even better against Dallas.

Receivers Making Plays:

What a nice game for Reggie Brown. Reggie had a career high 8 receptions for 105 yards, including an acrobatic catch on the sidelines. Glad to see Reggie getting more involved.

Speaking of great catches, what about the one handed grab by Kevin Curtis? That was amazing. Curtis also had a great 30 yard catch and run on a slant.

The receivers were actually helping McNabb, and making his job easier.

Greg Lewis even made some nice catches. He was once covered by a linebacker. A mismatch Donovan, and Lewis easily exploited. Then Greg even scooped one off the turf. Making a low McNabb pass a positive play.

L.J. Smith was blanked, but expect him to get more involved as he feels more comfortable with his injury.

On Side Kick Lit Fire Under Defense:

Minnesota marched right down the field(with some help from Eagles penalties), and scored on their first possession of the game. Then Brad Childress called for a surprise onside kick. The play caught the Eagles off guard, and the Vikings recovered.

I think this play infuriated the Eagles defense, and from that point on they made sure the Vikings would not get in the end zone again.

The very first play of that Vikings drive, resulted in a huge sack from Trent Cole. Cole just blasted through the middle so fast, and made the most impressive sack I have seen all season.

This set the tempo for the rest of the game, and the other Eagles fed off of this.

Cole is playing at a pro bowl level. He has really emerged as one of the leagues best pass rushers. He finished the game with 2 sacks(9 for the season), and had several big tackles in run support. Right now Trent Cole is the best player on the defense, and other teams better start to double team him. Otherwise he will make them pay.

Holcomb is Lucky:

I know Kelly's first start ended badly, when he went head first into the turf on a Juqua Thomas sack. So how is he lucky? He is lucky to not be paralyzed. When you look at the replay, it is amazing that all he ended up with is some bruising on his vertebrates. I felt bad for Kelly, as he was finally getting another chance to prove himself, and left with an injury. He should be thanking God to still be walking.

Minnesota Loves Childress:

Run Defense Was Great:

NFL's leading rusher Adrian Peterson was pretty much held in check. The entire defense should be credited for this, but give extra props to Brodrick Bunkley, Mike Patterson, and Trent Cole. Cole had a few tackles for losses, and Bunkley was a force in the middle. He has not been getting much pressure on the QB, but he is making is tough to run up the middle.

Peterson did have a few good runs, but must of the game he was getting stuffed. He really had nowhere to go. Probably his best play, was when he literally jumped over the defensive line, floating in the air like Michael Jordan. I guess if you can't run through them, jump over them?

Kevin Kolb Era On Hold:

I really must vent a little here. I am sick of fans throwing five under the bus constantly. Did everybody forget that he is coming back from major knee reconstruction? You should have expected there were going to be some limitations with Donovan early on. Can everybody stop being so damn impatient, and actually back the best QB in Philadelphia Eagles history for once?

I understand that McNabb has been very inconsistent so far this year, but he will improve. You can already see that some of his mobility is starting to come back. McNabb had a few plays where he moved similar to the "old Donovan". Andy even called a QB draw in the game.

Kevin Kolb is a rookie from the University of Houston. He may be a great QB one day, but that day is not today. He is not ready, and he wont be ready realistically for a few years.

Football is like war. I would much rather go to battle with Donovan McNabb, than A.J. Feeley, or a rookie. How soon people forget all the great things that McNabb has done here. This team was in a Super Bowl with Donovan! You don't just bail on him because he's had a few rough games.

Also I wonder where all the Jeff Garcia lovers are now? The Bucs have lost two straight games, and Garcia was terrible against Jacksonville. Three INTs, including one returned for a TD.

Everybody needs to quit whining, and realize that McNabb is the man in Philadelphia. He is the captain of the ship, and the team will sink or swim with him.

Vikings Preview

2007-10-27T05:34:00.000-04:00

Must Win?:

This has been said a lot so far this year. This term gets thrown around a lot, but really a game is never a must win, unless it eliminates you from contention. If the Eagles want to be serious about possibly making the playoffs, then almost every remaining game is a must win. You figure they have to go 7-3 during the remaining ten to do so. Is this possible? Yes it really is. The Birds have to stop stalling in the red zone, and stop giving games away they should have won. Minnesota is a team that a good team should beat.

Birds Improved Run D Gets Major Test:

One positive of this Eagles season, is the improvements to the defensive front. A run defense that was considered the teams weakness, is now one of the teams strength. Brodrick Bunkley, Takeo Spikes, Omar Gaither, and Chris Gocong are all new starters. They are a huge reason for the run defense being much better. Trent Cole emerging as a premier DE, Jevon Kearse being healthy, and the improved play of Mike Patterson are also big for this defense.

Now they get to face their biggest test yet. The NFL's leading rusher Adrian Peterson. This kid may be a rookie, but he plays like a seven year vet. He is a great combination of power, and speed. Once he breaks into the second level, he has moves, and great field vision.

He also has one of the best left sides of an offensive line in the NFL. Matt Birk a multiple pro-bowl C, Bryant McKinnie a very good run blocking LT, and Steve Hutchinson. Hutch is widely considered one of the best guards in football.

Mike Patterson, Brodrick Bunkley, and Trent Cole will have their hands full this game.

If the Eagles want to slow down this attack, their linebackers have to be gap sound, and everybody has to play contain well. If everybody does their job they can tame this beast. Much easier said that done.

Pupil Against His Teacher:

Another side story for this game, will be the coaching match up. Andy Reid versus the Eagles former Offensive Coordinator Brad Childress. Childress has had mixed reviews in Minnesota. Many question his play calling, and also wonder what his plan really is. Winning would certainly stop all the Vikings doubters.

While many felt that the Birds would be missing something without Brad. Well I feel they have been better off without him. Marty Morningweg has done a great job here. He may forever be remembered as the coach who chose the wind in overtime, but he is also one heck of an offensive mind. Some guys are just not meant to be head coaches. That was clearly the case with Marty, and may or may not be with Brad Childress.

I wish the best for Childress, just not this week. Hopefully this will be the first match up of many more to come.

QB Holcomb Likely To Start:

What a bizarre series of events for Kelly Holcomb this year. First he gets dealt to the Eagles along with Takeo Spikes for Darwin Walker(good riddance). Then the Eagles surprisingly draft Kevin Kolb, and Kelly went into training camp knowing he was the odd man out. The Eagles eventually sent him to Minnesota to backup Tavarias Jackson. Now he may be making his first start as a Minnesota Viking against the Eagles.

This is not quite the same as TO vs the Eagles story, but it is still pretty interesting. Kelly has never been a great QB, but at times he shows flashes. I pray those flashes of greatness do not occur this Sunday. After what another veteran QB Brian Griese did to the Birds last week, I would not be able to stomach another blow like that.

I think Tavarias Jackson would be a much easier opponent for the Eagles, because of his inexperience, and likely hood of making mistakes. There is a small chance that Jackson does play, but be ready to see Kelly Holcomb under center come game time.

Fix The Red Zone Mistakes:

If you haven't noticed the Eagles stink in the red zone. They have converted only one touch down in their last eleven trips there. They will continue to lose football games if the mistakes don't stop.

McNabb has to be on target more, the receivers have to catch the ball when given the opportunity, the o-line has to finish their blocks, the play calling has to be good, and everybody needs to eliminate the penalties.

Mistakes haunt this season, and it is time to correct them. Andy has spoken about them, the players have too, and every media outlet in Philadelphia has focused on them.

Eliminate the mistakes, and the Eagles offense takes off. When the offense gets near the goal line, they need to punch it in for six.

Injuries:

Looks like L.J. Smith will play again. He is listed as probable. Andy Reid said he looked good in practice, but that doesn't mean a whole lot. He may be limited by how well he feels during the game. I wonder why they just don't shut him down, until he is completely ready? This rushing him back constantly seems to be re-aggravating his injury.

The biggest surprise was that Jon Runyan was listed as questionable with the broken tailbone. Knowing the iron man streak that Jon has going, you should bet that he will play. He played through the injury last week, and is too tough a dude to let this slow him down.

Brian Dawkins is listed as doubtful, and that means he wont be out there again. Some people think stingers are small injuries, but they can be career threatening. The Eagles are being very cautious with this, and I am sure Brian is too. Any injury that deals with the spine is serious. Quinton Mikell has done a nice job filling in for Brian, and will start again this Sunday.

Prediction:

Eagles win 27-10

Corey Simon Retires

2007-10-25T20:04:00.002-04:00

Former Colts defensive tackle Corey Simon retired from the NFL today after trying to resume his career with the Tennessee Titans.

He says practice and games started wearing on his body again.

Simon was sidelined by Indianapolis last year on the non-football illness/injury list and confirmed that he had dealt with polyarthritis in 2006. He signed with Tennessee on August 28th and played in 4 of the Titans' six games.

But he says recovering from each game and practice finally became too much.

The 30-year-old Simon says he tried to continue as long as he could, but the pain was telling his body it was time to leave football.

Simon was the sixth overall pick in the 2000 draft by Philadelphia. He played five seasons there and 13 games for Indianapolis in 2005, registering 32 career sacks and 312 tackles.

>>WaneTV

Corey was once a premier talent in the league, but has not had a sack since leaving the Eagles. This is really a pretty sad ending for Corey.

Lurie Backs Reid

2007-10-24T15:29:00.000-04:00

Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie and his NFL counterparts agreed Tuesday to shorten the first day of the college player draft to two rounds and the time between picks in the first round to 10 minutes.

The changes were made at the owners meeting in Center City.

Previously teams had 15 minutes to pick in the first round and the first day of the selection process consisted of three rounds.

The time between picks in the second round is seven minutes, and five minutes for the remaining rounds.

The draft also will begin at 3 p.m. instead of noon, with rounds 3-through-7 starting the following morning at 10. This year’s draft is April 26-27.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who has presided over much change in his short tenure, said in a statement that, “We believe this will make for a more streamlined and efficient draft.”

Lurie later reportedly gave embattled Eagles head coach Andy Reid a vote of confidence at the meetings.

..Read more at the DelCoTimes>>

Runyan Has Fractured Tail Bone

2007-10-23T20:55:00.000-04:00

Reuben Frank, of PhillyBurbs.com, reports Philadelphia Eagles OT Jon Runyan (tailbone) said during his weekly radio show that he broke his tailbone when he slipped Thursday, Oct. 19. He is expected to play Week 8.

>>KFFL

Primetime: Eagles vs Bears

2007-10-23T20:01:00.000-04:00

Reid gives bad Birds detention

2007-10-23T06:12:00.000-04:00

A new horror flick made its big-screen debut Monday before a captive audience.

Eagles players, accustomed to getting the day after a game off unless they need treatment for an injury, were summoned to the team's South Philadelphia practice facility by coach Andy Reid for a team meeting and film review of their 19-16 loss to the Chicago Bears.

''There's a problem and we need to make sure we fix it,'' Reid said. ''I don't want it to sit another day or two. I want to make sure we get in so that the fellows can move on to [preparations for] Minnesota.

''I want them, No. 1, to look at the film and evaluate their mistakes. Then I want them to get it out of their minds fast and move on. We've got a good football team that we're going to play in Minnesota this week, and it's important that we learn from this and that we get it changed around quick.''

The extra day of mental work did not seem to surprise Eagles players.

..Read more from The Morning Call>>

Birds D Collapses In Final Minute

2007-10-21T20:42:00.000-04:00

97 Friggin Yards:

The Eagles defense has been excellent this year. So when Sav Rocca pinned the Bears deep with a minute 52 seconds left, you would think they could be able to hold the Bears inept offense one last time.

Well if you saw this dreadful game, then you already know they didn't hold.

The Bears had no timeouts, and started off the drive by throwing short underneath passes. 11 yards to Clark, 9 to Peterson, 9 to Hester, and 9 more to Clark.

Then with the game on the line the Bears attack changed.

On a 3rd and 3 with only 49 ticks to go, Brian Griese Throws a strike to Bernard Berrian in stride. Berrian gets all the way to the Eagles 39 for a gain of 25 yards. The Bears quickly ran down the field, and spiked the ball. The next play was another big one for the Bears. Greise passed to Devin Hester for 21 more yards. Bears ran up to the 15 yard line, and spiked the ball again.

Then comes the dagger. Greise floated one up in the back of the end zone, and Muhsin Muhammad out jumped Sean Considine for the game winning touch down catch.

What a disaster. The Eagles were on their way to victory, and then in a blink of an eye they get sliced apart by Brian Griese.

I am still in shock. It is just unbelievable how this team finds ways to lose. One game it's the special teams, next it's the receivers, then the o-line breaks down, and now the defense breaks at the wrong time.

You would think you can get used to losing games like this being a Philadelphia sports fan, but you can't. It hurts just as bad every time. Another punch to the gut.

Redzone Woes:

The offense is not off the hook either in this game. They moved the ball well, but was again very poor in the redzone.

On the first drive of the game, the Eagles offense was methodically moving down the field. On a crucial 3rd and goal McNabb fired a bullet to Reggie Brown. Reggie dropped what would have been a touchdown. It was not the easiest catch, but that is a play Brown has to make.

There were two other possessions were McNabb just misfired on key plays. Both times missing tight end Matt Schobel badly. One would have been a touch down.

When they finally were able to get a red zone TD, McNabb celebrated like it was the first TD pass of his career. I guess it is big when you get your team has failed to score a touchdown in your last ten red zone trips.

These missed opportunities kept the Bears in the game. If you let a team hang around too long, they might get you. This Eagles were got. I have heard talk all week on how they are going to fix these mistakes, but they are still making them.

After the game Reid had this to say on the red zone inefficiency.

"We have to do better. When we have opportunities to catch the football and make throws and those types of things, we have to do them. We have to keep working as coaches on putting guys in better positions so that they can have success down there."

I'm tired of hearing we have to do better. Do better already!

Andy Reid should make the team come to work tomorrow. There should not be the usual two days off after this lousy performance. The mistakes need to be corrected now. Everybody is tired of hearing excuses.

At Least They Didn't Kick To Hester:

This was probably the most surprising thing to me. I know that Andy Reid tends to be very arrogant, and I was shocked that he would not kick it to Hester. It did give the Bears good field position, but it was the right decision. Hester did not have any returns in the game. Give a lot of credit to David Akers, Sav Rocca, and special teams coach Rory Segrest.

Every punt was a directional punt out of bounds, and every kickoff was a high short kick. They did what it took to not let the very dangerous Devin Hester get the ball.

Run the Ball Andy?:

When McNabb got hurt last year, Andy Reid changed the offense to feature Brian Westbrook. They ran the ball a lot, and it seemed to really be an efficient offense. Now that McNabb is back, Andy is up to his old pass happy ways.

With Donovan coming back from this injury, why does he insist on not running the ball more? It seems that as soon as Westbrook gets tackled for a loss, Reid abandons the run completely. Reporters constantly hammer him with these questions, but he always gives the standard "we have to do a better job there".

If he wants this team to win games, he has to revert back to a more run oriented scheme. It worked back in 2003 when the team struggled early, and it worked last season. Time to put plan B into effect, because this one is not working.

Lito Back. Still No BDawk:

It was great to see Lito back. He made some nice plays, and maybe misplayed a few, but it was still great to have him back. I am all for anything that gives Will James less playing time.

This stinger injury to Brian Dawkins must be an extremely. The Eagles are definitely treating it as such. Dawkins has now been out for over a month. Quintin Mikell has filled in admirably, but you would still like to see Dawk out there. He is a play maker, and this defense needs to make some more plays. Especially on the last drive of the game.

Big Hole Gets Bigger:

In case you haven't checked the standings, the Eagles are in last place in the NFC East. This loss drops the Birds to 2-4 on the year. To make matters worse, the Giants, Redskins, and Cowboys all won this week. This drops the Eagles three back of the Cowboys, and two back of the Redskins and Giants.

After last years miracle turn around, I hate to say a season is ever over, but things look very bleak for the Eagles. They have a lot of tough games left, and they have to really fix a lot of problems.

Is anybody looking forward to playing Dallas this year?

Primetime: Eagles vs Jets

2007-10-19T05:30:00.000-04:00

Sheppard ready to return

2007-10-19T00:09:00.000-04:00

Lito Sheppard can't say enough about the job the Eagles secondary has done in his absence.

And yet, when the sixth-year cornerback returns to the field, likely this Sunday against the 2-4 Bears at Lincoln Financial Field, he expects the defense to reach another plateau.

"They've been doing a great job making plays but now we've got another person who can also make plays back there," Sheppard said. "It's just a swagger thing.

"Once everybody gets in the mind frame that we've been playing well, now we can take it to the next level and start making some big plays."

The MCL sprain Sheppard suffered in Week 1 is all but healed, and he has been practicing with the first-team defense since Wednesday.

Sheppard is one of two Pro Bowlers -- along with free safety Brian Dawkins -- to have missed the last month or more with an injury, and yet 2-3 Philadelphia's patched-up defensive unit has been able to hold opponents to just one touchdown in the last 10 quarters and move up the NFL statistical rankings to seventh.

William James has filled in for Sheppard, with Joselio Hanson slipping into the rotation as the nickel corner and Quintin Mikell starting in place of Dawkins.

In addition, cornerback Sheldon Brown has stepped forward as the on-field leader of the defensive backs, making a game-clinching stop in the end zone in last Sunday's crucial victory over the Jets.

The Eagles defense, as it stood against New York, was one to be respected. Sheppard may represent the difference between respect and fear.

..Continue reading at the Courier Post>>

Smith suffers another setback

2007-10-18T15:52:00.000-04:00

Another day at the NovaCare Complex, another setback for L.J. Smith.

Smith, who returned to action Sunday against the Jets after undergoing his second operation on his sports hernia, didn't practice yesterday after experiencing significant soreness in his groin area following the Jets game.

Paging Chad Lewis.

“Right now, he's sore,” head coach Andy Reid said. “We have to let that thing calm down and see how he does here in the next couple days.”

This season is turning into a nightmare for Smith, who caught 172 passes for 1,991 yards and 14 touchdowns in his first four NFL seasons but has been hobbled since April and has just five catches for 34 yards in limited action so far this fall.

..Continue reading at the Burlington Times>>

McNabb Still Confident

2007-10-17T22:08:00.000-04:00

Donovan McNabb is the first to admit that in the first five games of the season, the Eagles have dug themselves a pretty big hole. Sitting at the bottom of the NFC East and having already dropped games to division rivals Washington and New York, some might say it is time to start thinking about the Wild Card.

Not McNabb.

"I think one thing that people tend to forget is - the NFC East championship comes through Philadelphia," he said yesterday. "We have to protect our territory and we have enough time to do that."

While the situation could undoubtedly be more favorable, McNabb fully believes that until someone officially knocks them off, the Eagles remain the kings of the NFC East. Yes, Dallas is 5-1, New York is 4-2 and Washington is 3-2, but McNabb feels as though if the Eagles take care of their business, anything can happen.

"I think at this point, it's hard to say where anybody is. You may start out 5-0 and you could tail off," McNabb said. "The Giants started 6-2 last year and then they kind of fell off. Nobody ever remembers September and October, they always remember November, December."

No matter how well the Eagles play, they will need some of their division rivals to - as McNabb put it - tail off. Dallas has been especially hot in the early going, and New York has won four in a row. Washington's defense has been one of the best of the league, ranking third.

In addition, all three have favorable matchups this weekend — Washington hosts injury-riddled Arizona, the Giants host sliding San Francisco and Dallas hosts inconsistent Minnesota — but McNabb stressed that unless Philadelphia remains focused on the task it hand, it will not matter what other teams do.

"We can't worry about what other teams are doing," he said. "We can only focus on what we need to do here."

McNabb is not necessarily a rah-rah type of motivator, and his strong words on Wednesday were encouraging to some of his teammates.

"We definitely know that if Don is all in, and with a statement like that, we're all in," wide receiver Jason Avant said. "We don't want to let him down in any kind of way. That's how he feels and that's the way we feel."

McNabb also said Wednesday that he thinks the offense specifically is getting closer to returning to the form it displayed in previous seasons. Still, even his teammates on the other side of the ball appreciate the vote of confidence and share his enthusiasm.

"It makes me feel really good. That's our man. That's our leader," safety Quintin Mikell said. "If he has that much confidence in that, it gives us that much confidence. I think we are on to the right track right now."

Some players also said that while McNabb's declaration is encouraging, the team never wavered in its belief even throughout the slow start.

"We had confidence already, we just need to go out and perform. It's obvious that victories aren't going to come easy. We have to go out and earn them," safety Sean Considine said. "It's a lot of hard work during the week so we can go out and hopefully perform well on Sundays."

>>Home Page

Eagles vs Jets Highlights

2007-10-16T15:59:00.000-04:00

Eagles Fly Past the Jets 16-9

2007-10-14T21:17:00.000-04:00

Ugly win, but the Birds will take it

Westbrook is Invaluable:

What a nice return for 36. He had 120 yards on 20 carries, and also chipped in with 36 receiving yards. He was consistently very good all game, and completely changed the Eagles offense. Even though the Eagles only managed to score one touchdown, they moved the ball very effectively.

With Westbrook, L.J. Smith, and Tra Thomas all returning, the offense seemed to be more normal, than it has been in the three losses. Brian's presence on the field, opens things up for the receivers, as defenses always have to account for him. He is such a threat to break a big play at any time in the game.

I was very worried about his abdominal injury, but it seemed to be ok today. It must not be as bad, as previously reported.

Lightning Strikes Again:

Kevin Curtis made the play of the game, when he took a quick slant 77 yards for a touchdown on the Eagles opening possession. It was 3rd down, and McNabb had a perfect strike to Curtis, who broke through 2 tackles, and sprinted to the end zone.

Give a lot of credit to Donovan to, for making the audible after reading the Jets defense.

It was a great play, and Curtis is showing that he is a quality starting NFL receiver.

What Can Brown Do For You?:

Not much so far this season, but Reggie Brown finally had a good game. He did not do anything spectacular, but he did play solid. He managed six catches for 89 yards. Many of those were third down catches, including his last big catch when the Jets desperately needed a stop. Hopefully as the offense gets healthy, Brown can continue to get involved more.

Bend Don't Break:

Overall the Eagles defense did a great job. They did give up some yards on the ground, but locked up the Jets in the red zone holding them to four FGs(1 missed). In the first half Thomas Jones was killing the Birds with cutback runs, but in the second half they fixed that.

Sheldon Brown was huge, as he was able to get a big interception off QB Chad Pennington, and Brown also batted down the crucial 4th, and 1 pass. WR Laverneous Coles was pretty much shut down, and give credit to Brown for his big game.

The defensive line is starting to get a nice rotation going, and they now added Lajaun Ramsey to the mix. I really think Ramsey was a great find by the front office, and he should be used more often. Trent Cole notched his team leading 6th sack of the year, and Jevon Kearse was also able to get a sack.

A few minor things that bugged me, are some missed tackles by Considine, Gocong, and James. Those three guys at times play well, and sometimes just look foolish.

The Eagles defense is not great, but they are playing very well. There is clearly a huge difference from last year to now. I think you have to credit the excellent play of the young DTs, and the linebacker overhaul. Many people ripped the Eagles for releasing Jeremiah Trotter, but now it is clear it was the right move. Omar Gaither has been playing very well, and deserves a lot of credit.

Akers Sucks In The Meadowlands:

The numbers don't lie. He has missed more FGs at Giants Stadium, than any where else in the NFL. He hooked two 41 yarders wide today(one might have been tipped).

I don't know if it is the wind, or the ugly New Yorkers, but Akers is not money there.

Normally I have complete confidence with Akers, but not today. Not in that windy stadium. I remember when he missed a chip shot FG there, that could have clinched home field in the playoffs years back. Maybe it is in his head?

I just hope that the Eagles season never comes down to a big kick up there.

Ugly Jets/Titans throwbacks:

Looks like the Rams uniforms a little. These are not as bad as the blue/yellow Eagles throwbacks, but these throwbacks make me wanna throw up.
Season Back On Track?:

Not yet. It is always important to gets Ws, but this is a bad Jets team the Eagles beat. They also did not do it very convincingly. The offense moved the ball well, but settled for too many FGs. The defense played very well, but there are still some mistakes being made.

Realistically the Eagles need to win about 3-4 in a row, before the ship is righted. With only 3 losses, they are clearly not out of it, but now they can't afford to lose many games from here on.

I was almost ready to give up on the team after the Giants loss, because I did not think Brian Westbrook would be able to come back from this injury. Well BWest is definitely back, and looking great, so now I still have some hope. They need to build off this win, and improve in some areas for next weeks match up with the Bears.

Dawkins Out; Lito Questionable

2007-10-12T19:18:00.000-04:00

Brian Dawkins has been ruled out for Sunday's game with the Jets, and head coach Andy Reid said Friday that his Pro Bowl safety is out of town getting treatment from doctors who specialize in dealing with neck stingers. Meanwhile, cornerback Lito Sheppard is listed as questionable and receiver Greg Lewis is doubtful because of an ankle injury.

But the day also brought some good news: the expected return of running back Brian Westbrook, tight end L.J. Smith and left tackle William Thomas, all of whom sat out the team's last game -- a 16-3 loss to the Giants at the Meadowlands. Even left guard Todd Herremans, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery during the bye week, is expected to start. However, Reid noted that the four players will be monitored closely during the course of the game.

Dawkins, meanwhile, will miss a third straight game with an injury sustained as a result of a hit he put on Redskins tight end Todd Yoder in the fourth quarter of the week 2 loss to Washington. His situation also bears watching, although Reid insists the injury is not career threatening.

"It's not that kind of a thing. It's not one where he's worried about that," Reid said. "Nerves are crazy, and you start dealing with those stingers and you're dealing with nerves. Everybody is different. It's still bothering him, so we're looking at different ways; people that we know and trust."

The head coach did not reveal any specifics regarding Dawkins' visit -- a doctor's name or even a location. He did say that Dawkins would be back in Philadelphia by the middle of next week when the team begins preparations for the Oct. 21 game against the Bears.

"We're just going to get him taken care of and see how he does here as we get into next week," Reid said.

As anxious as Dawkins is to return to the field, he does not want to put on the uniform until he knows he can perform at a high level. He said in the week leading up to the Giants game that if there was any hesitation in his mind about making a tackle, that he wasn't ready to return.

"That's what I don't want, and that's what I'm trying to make sure doesn't happen," Dawkins said. "When I do get in, I want to play. I don't want to think about anything when I play. When you are thinking about something, you're going to be a step behind, or something else could happen.

"When I get in there, I want to be able to concentrate on the opponent, the play formation, down and distance, and trying to wreak havoc."

Dawkins must also walk the fine line of knowing when he is physically ready to return. In recent weeks he said that he will not return until both he and his doctors feel the time is right.

"I'd say it's the doctor's choice, but I definitely have say in it also," Dawkins said. "When we are both on the same page, when it's time to make that decision, and hopefully that decision will be made a lot sooner this week, then it will be time to roll."

That was Dawkins' answer to a question posed more than two weeks ago, and that decision has been pushed back a number of times.

More On Sheppard & Co.

Although Sheppard participated in practice this week, Reid said that if his Pro Bowl cornerback does play, it will be in a limited capacity. He has been out since the season opener with a knee injury.

"He can't quite open today all the way, but he's getting there. He's close," Reid said. "That's a positive."

Like Sheppard, Smith too may be limited somewhat in his first game action since week 2.

"I'm not going to ask him to play the whole game," Reid said. "He'll get in. We'll see how he feels, and try to be smart with this."

Up front, Reid expects the left side of the line to be intact. Left tackle William Thomas practiced the last two days after missing Wednesday's workout, while left guard Todd Herremans practiced fully Friday after being limited on Thursday.

>>Home Page

Why Hockey Players Have No Teeth

2007-10-11T20:56:00.000-04:00

What a nasty hit. He'll probably get 20 games for this, but he really messed dude up.

O-Line Reunites

2007-10-11T17:49:00.000-04:00

Injured left tackle William Thomas has full participation in practice Thursday while left guard Todd Herremans was limited in his participation, but both said that they hope to play Sunday against the Jets.

"I should (play)," Thomas said. "I'll see how my body responds tomorrow and we'll just take it from there."

Thomas sprained his MCL in the third quarter of the Eagles' Week 3 win over Detroit, and sat out the loss to the Giants. Herremans has not missed any game action yet, but underwent arthroscopic knee surgery during the bye week. Herremans only participated in about five snaps during the course of Thursday's practice, but still likes his chances of being ready for Sunday.

"I think there's a pretty good chance but we'll see on Sunday," Herremans said. "I felt good out there today. I wanted to hold off a little bit so it didn't swell up and see how it feels tomorrow, but I feel pretty good."

The Eagles started the same five players on the line for all 16 games last season, but have had to deal with injuries to Thomas, Herremans and guard Shawn Andrews since training camp began.

Thomas said it was nice to have all five starters practice for the first time in weeks.

"It was very good to get everybody out there at one time," he said. "It is definitely giving us something to build on."

Continue reading from the Home Page>>

Westbrook, Smith and Sheppard Practice

2007-10-10T21:55:00.000-04:00

Three up and three down.

Eagles running back Brian Westbrook, tight end L.J. Smith and cornerback Lito Sheppard practiced on Wednesday. Safety Brian Dawkins, left tackle William Thomas and left guard Todd Herremans did not.

Westbrook missed the Giants game after hurting his ribs a week earlier against Detroit. Wednesday’s practice was his first since the injury.

"I really haven’t had an opportunity to test it out fully so I’ll get out there and see how things go,” Westbrook said. "I’ve been making gradual progress since I’ve had the injury, so hopefully that will continue.”

Smith has been out since undergoing surgery on Sept. 21 to expedite the healing of his groin injury. He practiced on a limited basis.

"I didn’t do a complete practice, but I did some things,” Smith said.

Smith played the season’s first two games, making four receptions for 26 yards, but clearly was hindered by the injury. He will not play Sunday against the Jets unless he feels close to 100 percent.

"I’m not going to put myself in the situation I was in the first two games,” Smith said. "I was out there hobbling around and didn’t look good. So if I go out there, I’m definitely going to be able to contribute in a major way. I’m not going to go out there 50 percent, 65 percent – I’m going to go out there and play at a high level.”

Coach Andy Reid announced Wednesday morning that Thomas would attempt to practice and Sheppard would not. It turned out to be the other way around. Both are suffering from sprained MCLs.

Sheppard has been out since suffering his in the season opener against Green Bay. He participated in individual drills on Wednesday.

"I wanted to get out there and gauge it but just not overdo it,” Sheppard said. "We don’t want to have any setbacks. It was kind of the minimum, but I was definitely going through some stuff.”

It seems as though it will at least be another week before Sheppard plays. He said he didn’t work out at game speed.

"There’s always a chance [I could play],” Sheppard said. "I got out there and practiced today, but that’s too early to say right now. We’re just going to see how the rest of this week goes and go from there.”

Like Smith, Sheppard doesn’t want to play at half speed.

"Like I tell everybody, I can’t get out there and be half Lito,” Sheppard said. "When I’m out there, I want to be out there to help my team. That’s what we’re working on right now.”

Thomas injured his knee against the Lions and did not play against the Giants.

"I’m very disappointed,” Thomas said about being unable to practice. "We’ll see how it goes. We’re taking it day to day right now. It’s getting better. It’s definitely getting better.”

Reid said he will not hesitate to start Winston Justice again at left tackle if Thomas can’t play. Justice struggled mightily against the Giants in his first career start.

"I have no problem with that,” Reid said. "I told him to keep his head up and keep firing. He’ll be fine. He’s a good, young football player.”

The Eagles are being cautious with Dawkins, who hasn’t played since suffering a stinger Week 2 against Washington.

"When you’re dealing with nerves, you just don’t know how long those are going to take,” Reid said. "You literally take them day by day. They could take a long time. We’re just playing it by ear. We know he wants to be out there – it’s killing him not to be out there. We want to make sure that thing is right.”

Dawkins went through an intense warm-up before the Giants game but was inactive.

"It's frustrating, very frustrating," Dawkins said Tuesday night during a scheduled appearance at Manny Brown’s in Langhorne, Pa. "All I can do is do what the doctors tell me and hope I'm able to play soon. It's a slow process, and I don't know how long it will take. Hopefully, not too long. It kills you to not be out there with your teammates, especially when things aren't going well.”

Herremans, who has yet to miss a game, underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on Oct. 2 but is expected to play. If Herremans is unable to play, then second-year pro Max Jean-Gilles will start at left tackle.

"I’m presuming that Herremans is going to play in the game,” Reid said.

"His knee was bothering him, so we checked it. He had a cartilage tear in there, so they went in there and cleaned it out. He was back up on his feet that day. The main thing is to keep the swelling down. He feels pretty good right now.”

>>ComcastSportsnet

Reid Going Nowhere

2007-10-08T14:59:00.000-04:00

After the Eagles got thrashed by the Giants last Sunday night, rumors quickly arose and ran rampant that Philly head coach Andy Reid would step down prior to the end of this season. Speculation was that due to legal trouble brought on by two of Reid's sons, the coach would step down because he couldn't keep his focus in the right place.

Stories and rumors spread but all without ever having Reid's position on the matter...until now.

"The only way I don't finish up coaching this year is if I die," an emphatic Reid told FOX Sports. "Are you kidding me? I don't know where this story came from, how it started, but it couldn't be any further from the truth. I am definitely not stepping away!

"It's amazing how this story came up and then got legs, but there's no way."

Reid took a day during his bye week to step out to Atlantic City for a much-needed respite in order to recharge his batteries. Batteries that he says are far from dying.

"The one thing I've learned throughout this whole thing is that I'm not alone in dealing with family issues," said Reid. "There are people who own businesses, run corporations, and they have problems too but don't walk away. Everyone has family or personal issues, but they don't quit their jobs."

>>FOXSports

Phils Get Rocked

2007-10-04T17:11:00.000-04:00

Lose 10-5 to Colorado, and drop to 0-2 in the best of 5

Home or away, these Colorado Rockies are on quite a roll.

Kaz Matsui hit his first career grand slam and drove in five runs, leading the Rockies over the Philadelphia Phillies 10-5 Thursday for a 2-0 lead in their NL playoff series.

Matsui connected off scheduled Game 4 starter Kyle Lohse, rushed in to relieve struggling rookie Kyle Kendrick in the fourth inning.

At this rate, the best-of-five series may not get that far. Rookie Ubaldo Jimenez will try to pitch Colorado to a sweep Saturday night at Coors Field against veteran Jamie Moyer.

Making just the second postseason appearance in the franchise's 15-year history, Colorado is on the verge of going to its first NL championship series. The wild-card Rockies posted their eighth straight road victory, and have won 16 of 17 overall.

Matsui fell a single short of the cycle, and Troy Tulowitzki and Matt Holliday homered on consecutive pitches in the first inning off Kendrick, who got a quick hook from manager Charlie Manuel.

The Phillies had a chance to make it interesting in the eighth, loading the bases with two outs. But closer Manny Corpas came in and retired Carlos Ruiz on a bouncer to third. Corpas worked around a pair of two-out singles in a scoreless ninth for his second save in as many days.

Before the game, Corpas came under scrutiny because he was caught by TBS cameras on Wednesday taking a sip of a liquid out of a cup in the bullpen, then pouring some down the back of his neck and all over the front of his jersey. He was seen patting his chest and rubbing his fingers before throwing a pitch, but didn't appear to do anything shady in this appearance.

Jimmy Rollins homered and drove in four runs and Ryan Howard also connected for Philadelphia, which ended a 14-year playoff drought by capturing the NL East title on the final day of the season.

But it's been downhill for the Phillies since they followed a wild celebration Sunday with a pep rally at City Hall the next day.

The heavily criticized Manuel gave his critics plenty of ammunition with two questionable moves.

With the Phillies leading 3-2 in the fourth, Manuel pulled Kendrick after pinch-hitter Seth Smith's infield single loaded the bases with two outs.

Manuel called on Lohse, who made two relief appearances on side days down the stretch. Lohse got ahead 1-2 on Matsui, before grooving a fastball. Matsui drove it into the right-field seats to give the Rockies a 6-3 lead and silence the largest crowd ever at four-year-old Citizens Bank Park.

A total of 45,991 came out, waved their rally towels and cheered wildly despite the score -- somewhat out of character for the notoriously tough Philly boobirds. But they sure gave Jose Mesa an earful when the reliever struggled in the sixth.

Manuel inexplicably used Mesa, who had a 5.54 ERA in 40 games with the Phillies, instead of Clay Condrey to start the inning. Mesa walked the first two batters he faced and allowed a two-run double to Yorvit Torrealba that put the Rockies ahead 8-3. Mesa stayed in and retired pitcher Josh Fogg, before Manuel finally came out and got him.

Condrey gave up an RBI triple to Matsui and RBI single to Holliday to give the Rockies a 10-3 lead.

Matsui, Colorado's leadoff hitter, had just four homers in 410 at-bats this season. He flied out to center in his last at-bat, finishing 3-for-5.

Rookie Franklin Morales lasted just three innings, allowing three runs and three hits in his ninth career start. The 21-year-old Venezuelan played in the All-Star Futures game in July, made his big league debut a month later and earned his first win in Philly on Sept. 11.

Fogg relieved the hard-throwing lefty, and pitched two scoreless innings to earn the win. Fogg started Monday when Colorado beat San Diego in 13 innings in the wild-card tiebreaker.

On an unseasonably warm fall afternoon in Philly -- it was 82 degrees at game time -- the balls were flying out early.

Tulowitzki, the Rookie of the Year candidate, gave the Rockies a 1-0 on a towering drive that landed in the flower bed just beyond the left-center field wall and bounced onto the field. Thinking the ball was in play, Tulowitzki slid into third base, got up and jogged home.

There was no doubt about Holliday's shot. He ripped one deep onto the left-field seats for his second homer in two games and his sixth in six games in Philadelphia this season.

Rollins, who had a career-best 30 homers, connected on Morales' first pitch in the bottom of the first to slice Colorado's lead to 2-1.

Morales ran into trouble in the second. Ruiz doubled to right-center to put runners at second and third with one out. After Kendrick grounded out, Rollins came through.

With the crowd chanting "M-V-P!" he lined a two-run triple to left-center to give the Phillies their first lead of the series, 3-2.

The Rockies elected to pitch to Rollins with a base open and Chase Utley up next. Though he hit .332 during the season, Utley struck out his first five at-bats in this series.

Kendrick, who led NL rookies with 10 wins, allowed five runs and five hits in 3 2-3 innings.

Notes

Rollins hit the first leadoff homer in the Phillies' postseason history. ... The Phillies haven't won a postseason game since Curt Schilling shut out Toronto in Game 5 of the 1993 World Series. That series ended with Joe Carter's homer clinching the championship for the Blue Jays. ... Colorado's bullpen has allowed one earned run in nine innings.

>>YahooSports

HMan Gets Scoped

2007-10-03T00:25:00.000-04:00

The Eagles announced Tuesday that starting left guard Todd Herremans had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Tuesday. The surgery was performed by Dr. Peter DeLuca, and was successful.

Herremans, a fourth-round draft pick out of Saginaw Valley State in 2005, has started 22 consecutive games at left tackle. A timetable for his return to action will be determined next week.

After playing tackle in college and in his first year with the Eagles, the team moved him inside to left guard last season. Herremans quickly entrenched himself at the position, joining right guard Shawn Andrews to form one of the best young guard pairings in the league. In fact, the Eagles' streak of starting the same five players along the offensive line ended at 19 regular season games Sunday when tackle William Thomas was sidelined with a knee injury.

Third-year reserve guard Scott Young is listed as Herremans' backup on the depth chart if he is not able to return in time for the Eagles next game against the New York Jets. Also in the mix could be second-year guard Max Jean-Gilles and Nick Cole.

>>HomePage

NL East Champs

2007-10-02T08:49:00.000-04:00

Rollins(MVP) Howard Myers

Giants Sack Eagles

2007-09-30T23:49:00.000-04:00

Giant Loss Puts Birds In 1-3 Hole

Under Pressure:

"It's frustrating," said McNabb, who finished 15-of-31 for 138 yards. "For an offense that has had so much success over the previous years, for us to come out and play the way we played today is embarrassing."

Embarrassing? No. Embarrassing is when you accidentally let one rip when you are on a date. This was atrocious, mind boggling, horrific, and just disastrous.

The Eagles offense did not even have a chance today, as they were outplayed, out numbered, and flat out out coached.

The Giants sacked Donovan McNabb 12 times, tying an NFL record. Former Eagles linebackers coach Steve Spagnola called a brilliant game, and he kept heavy pressure coming all night. The Giants who have tremendous depth at defensive end, knew they would get a good pass rush from the edges, and blitzed the Eagles A gap constantly, to get after Donovan from all angles.

One of those great ends, Osi Umenyiora lead the way with six sacks, and was a Giant pain all game. Even when Donovan was not getting sacked, he was being chased, or forced out of the pocket. This lead to many of the sacks, rushed throws, and errant passes. The pass protection scheme definitely failed tonight, and the Eagles game plan was very poor. Early in the first quarter, on a 3rd down play, Reno Mahe was responsible for picking up Umenyiora blitzing from the linebacker position. That is a match up I hope I never see again, as Osi easily pushed Mahe away to get a sack.

The Eagles offensive line was supposed to be a strength of the team, but tonight it was a major weakness. You will not see many victories with pass protection this poor. Throughout the game, the Eagles used a shotgun spread formation, that had minimal pass protection, and this seemed to play right into the Giants blitzing defense. It seemed like the Eagles were getting beat by their own defensive scheme.

Another thing that the Birds offense tried, was switching to a no huddle offense. They have used this several times this year, and it has failed miserably. When you have an offense as complicated as the Eagles, it is very difficult to operate this way, because you are constantly changing personnel packages for different plays. Teams like the Colts can run it so efficiently, because they will use the same exact personnel, and the same exact formation for an entire drive. Using the no huddle has killed a lot of Eagles drives this year, and they need to just give up on it.

Justice Was Not Served:

The Eagles streak of 19 straight games with the offensive line intact, was broken Sunday. With Tra Thomas sidelined for the game, second year tackle Winston Justice got his first career start, and it is sure to be one he would like to forget about. To be blunt about his performance, he was just absolutely terrible.

To make matters worse, John Madden made sure to point out how bad 74 messing up. Then ripped the Eagles for not helping him out more in pass protection. If only Andy had listened to that advice, because Justice was responsible for four of the six sacks that Osi Umenyiora had. Osi ran around him, ran inside, and bull dozed him to get to McNabb. Everybody knew this would be a big test for him going into the game, but nobody expected he would get schooled this bad.

Justice also did poorly in run blocking. The Eagles had tremendous success running the ball to the left last week, and this week they were very inconsistent. Justice was not holding the point of attack, and a few runs got blown up for no gains.

As the game progressed Justice even seemed rattled, as he was repeatedly called for false starts, and possibly was lined up incorrectly one play. (could have been Brent Celek, one of them messed up

The only positive thing I can say for this lousy debut, is that things can only go up from here. It can't get any worse. Osi seemed to agree.

"It was like a video game out there," Umenyiora said. "Winston Justice is a very good football player. Tonight was just one of those nights. He'll learn from that experience."

Justice accepted responsibility.

"I am going to shoulder the loss for the team," he said. "I got out of my technique, tried to make adjustments and they just didn't work."

Strange Miscue Costs Birds:

With one minute, and fifty six seconds to go in the third quarter, McNabb took the snap from under center, and then it appeared that he just dropped the ball. Which was then recovered by New York linebacker Kawika Mitchell, and returned the ball seventeen yards for a score.

With a slow motion replay, you could see that as McNabb was about to hand the ball off to Correll Buckhalter, Thomas Tapeh accidentally bumped into the ball, and created the biggest play(mistake) of the game.

Andy Reid tried to challenge the play, but to no avail. The play would stand, and this would be a back breaker for the Eagles, as they were unable to comeback from a 16-0 deficit. The Picture I found, shows that Schobel contacted him, with his knee down. Way to go refs. After further review you blew it!

I am not sure if the mistake was on Donovan, or Tapeh, but with the way the Eagles offense was sputtering, I knew the game was over right there.

Injuries Keep Piling Up:

Now I know it is lame to use injuries as en excuse for an NFL loss, and I will not do that. However it is alarmingly scary at how many of the Eagles better players are injured.

None scarier than Brian Westbrook's torn abdominal muscle. When Michelle Tafoya described in detail how Brian's ribs would actually poke through the tear, It became clear to me that Westbrook's injury was very severe.

My guess is that Brian will be on the shelf for a long time, and not just a few games. There is no way he is going to be able to perform with this type of injury, and if he does, it will only get worse. The only realistic solution is probably going to require surgery, and a long rehab process. This could mean no Brian Westbrook for most of the remaining season.

As shown tonight Westbrook is sorely missed on this team, and without him they are just not the same team.

Other players out include Brian Dawkins(neck), Lito Sheppard(knee), L.J. Smith(sports hernia), and Tra Thomas(knee). Sheldon Brown suffered a stinger in the first quarter.

The Eagles desperately need these guys back soon, because the team is not performing without them. You will not see this offense be explosive with Brian Westbrook wearing a tee shirt.

Does Plax Own Sheldon?:

Don't get me wrong, I am a huge Sheldon Brown fan. He is one of my favorite players, and I even have his jersey. There just seems to be a huge mismatch problem with Brown covering Plaxico Burress.

He has beaten Sheldon Brown for a Touchdown as least once in each of the past three seasons. I feel like Brown is one of the most fundamentally sound corners in the game, but Plaxico just seems to have his number. His size, and speed make him extremely difficult to defend. On many of the plays Brown even has pretty good coverage on Burress, but Burress, just uses his size to out jump Brown.

Brown also seemed to be getting picked on after he suffered an injury early in the game. He did not have one of his better games, but I know Sheldon will put in the work to improve.

Will James Is Horrible:

Will James is the worst corner back on the Eagles roster, and he is the worst current starter on the team.

James once again got torched deep, and this time he was penalized for blatantly taking Amani Toomer to the ground. The penalty lead to a Giants field goal, but more importantly it once again showed the NFL that James is a bum.

Every QB in the league will pick on number 21, when they see him lined up on the field.

The Eagles would be better off sticking a traffic cone on the field, because at least maybe the receiver would accidentally trip over it. With Will James there is no maybe, he is going to get beat every game.

Rest Of The D Was Solid:

The Eagles did a pretty good job for the most part on defense. Offensively the Giants only scored ten points, and only gave up the one TD to Plaxico.

There are some areas that could still be improved, like some missed tackles, more pressure on the QB, the ability to cover the short pass, and they could work on stopping the bootleg some in practice.

One time NFL sack leader Trent Cole, did not get any sacks, and I expected a big game from him. Juqua Thomas did very little, and Darren Howard was invisible except for a tipped pass.

The one lone sack came from Jevon Kearse of all people. Imagine that. Kearse actually made several nice plays, and that was good to see.

The defensive tackles had another very solid game, and the Eagles defense went another game without allowing a hundred yard rusher. Besides an offsides penalty, Mike Patterson played very well.

Omar Gaither got his second career interception off Eli Manning in the second quarter, and returned it 49 yards the other way. Great play for Omar, but I thought he should have scored on it. He looked really slow running with the football, and Manning was able to get an angle on Gaither, and force him out of bounds.

The defense shows a lot of promise, but there is still work to be done. Rod Hood is also sorely missed. That could be the biggest mistake the front office made this off season.

Not So Special Teams:

This has to be the worst special teams play of any team under Andy Reid. There is no aspect of special teams, that the Eagles excel at, and they can rarely even play a game without a barrage of mistakes.

"Sure handed" Reno Mahe fumbled on a punt return, J.R. Reed dropped the ball on a kick return, the always dependable David Akers missed a field goal, and almost every "decent" return had a stupid penalty.

Sav Rocca had a terrible game, and I am wondering what happened to this great leg? This guy was pinning teams deep in the pre-season, and was thought to be a weapon. Well now he is getting terrible distance, and hang time, and killed the Eagles field position all game.

Former Eagle Jeff Feagles completely outplayed Sav, and showed that he is one the best in the game. Feagles is the best in the game, at directional/pouch punting, and he pinned the Eagles deep twice on consecutive possessions.

The Eagles kick/punt coverage teams still sucked. I don't know if it is Rory Segrest, or the players, but this special teams this year just flat out suck.

At Least The Phillies Beat New York:

If the Phillies had blown the division title, that was handed to them on a silver platter by the Muts, there might be some people ready to jump off the Walt Whitman Bridge today.

You know it is really bad when the Phils are having more success than the Birds.

Props to the Fightins for managing to get through all that adversity, and still win the NL East.

It's been 14 years since the Phillies last made the playoffs, and there is a great buzz in the city about it.

Doom And Gloom:

What a disastrous start to a season filled with so much promise. The only reason I have even the slightest bit of hope, is because of what the 2003 Eagles team overcame. However is Brian Westbrook is required to go under the knife, then you can be sure that the season is over for sure. Westbrook is the teams most dangerous weapon, and without him this teams' offense is mediocre at best.

Andy Reid better have some miracles up his sleeve, or else it will be time to look at college mock drafts soon.

Eagles Banged Up

2007-09-30T19:26:00.000-04:00

No Westbrook, Dawkins, Lito, Tra Thomas, L.J. Smith

Safety Brian Dawkins and running back Brian Westbrook were both inactive for Sunday night's game against the Giants. Dawkins missed his second consecutive game after suffering a neck stinger in Philadelphia's Week 2 loss to Washington. Westbrook strained an abdominal in the third quarter of the Eagles' win over Detroit in Week 3 and was unable to practice in the week leading up the the game with New York. Correll Buckhalter got the start in his abscnce.

Three other starters, cornerback Lito Sheppard (knee), left tackle William Thomas (knee), and tight end L.J. Smith (groin), were also inactive with injuries. Quarterback Kevn Kolb, defensive tackle Kimo von Oelhoffen and defensive end Victor Abiamiri rounded out the inactive list for the Eagles.

>>HomePage

Not good Eagles fans. This might be too many injuries to overcome.

Phillies NL East Champions

2007-09-30T17:35:00.000-04:00

The Phillies led, 7-0, before taking the field, thanks to Tom Glavine's first-inning meltdown at Shea Stadium.

Fellow baseball senior citizen Jamie Moyer had no such difficulty, soft-tossing the Phillies to a 6-1 win over the Nationals on Sunday, securing their first National League East title and playoff appearance since 1993.

The celebration began with a strikeout of the Nationals' Wily Mo Pena. Like Jesse Orosco with the Mets in 1986, closer Brett Myers flung his glove high as he fell to his knees. Cell phone cameras clicked as fans waved towels high over their heads. The noise at Citizens Bank Park was deafening.

The Phillies took over the division lead after Game 160, then fell back into a tie with Game 161, when they lost to the Nationals. An enthusiastic crowd of 44,865 -- the 24th sellout this season -- reacted to each Marlins' run on the out-of-town scoreboard. The Mets' game, which began 25 minutes earlier, ended with an 8-1 Marlins victory.

Moyer, who famously skipped school to attend the parade celebrating the 1980 World Series championship, was more than up to the challenge of shutting down a Nationals team that achieved a season goal a night before by clinching fourth place in the division.

The veteran lefty pitched around a one-out double in the first and got the Phillies to the dugout. Jimmy Rollins added to his NL Most Valuable Player candidacy by stroking a leadoff single off Jason Bergmann, swiping second and third and streaking home on a medium liner to right field by Chase Utley.

Phillies, 1-0.

Moyer provided a slow death to a lineup of aggressive fastball hitters, dancing through five innings. Washington's only run came courtesy of a Greg Dobbs error. Ronnie Belliard reached on that play and scored on an Austin Kearns single.

The rest of the afternoon on Fan Appreciation Sunday belonged to the suffering fans, who nearly got their wish over the past two seasons. More than three million (3,108,325) came to watch 81 home games this season, and delighted with each offering.

Raucous from pitch No. 1 -- a swinging strike by Felipe Lopez -- the rally towels waved throughout the 75-degree day, perfect by any standards.

Ryan Howard padded the lead to 3-0 with a bases-loaded, two-run single in the third, and Philadelphia added two more in the sixth. Howard also homered in the seventh. Moyer left to a thunderous ovation in the sixth, and Tom Gordon received some more accolades when he ended the inning with a double play.

Party hard, Phillies fans, for a relentless team that roared back from seven games back on Sept. 12 to overtake the Mets, who couldn't get out of their own way. Philadelphia went 13-3 in its final 16 games, while New York went 5-12.

Go on, Philadelphia. Spray champagne, smoke a cigar and buy a T-shirt that says "National League East Champions." Celebrate.

>>PhiladelphiaPhillies.com

Eagles Face Giant Task

2007-09-28T13:25:00.000-04:00

Donovan McNabb quieted critics with a spectacular performance in leading the Philadelphia Eagles to their first win of the season last week. He'll look to follow it up against a New York Giants defense that lifted the team to its first victory of 2007.

The NFC East archrivals meet Sunday night at Giants Stadium in a matchup of clubs looking to put rough starts behind them.

McNabb has been limited to 19 games the last two seasons, missing the final six games of 2006 with a torn ACL and sitting out the last seven contests in '05 due to a sports hernia. The five-time Pro Bowl quarterback struggled in his first two games this season after returning from surgery on the torn knee ligament, throwing for one touchdown and one interception while completing just 54.4 percent of his passes.

McNabb bounced back from the two sub-par performances in electrifying fashion, going 21-of-26 for 381 yards and four touchdowns Sunday to lead Philadelphia (1-2) to a 56-21 victory over Detroit. McNabb recorded the third-best passing yardage total of his career and his most since Dec. 5, 2004 against Green Bay, when he threw for a career-high 464 yards.

"When you're a great quarterback, you're going to have days where things aren't working," coach Andy Reid said. "He knows that. He knows that if he keeps firing, good things will happen."

McNabb was also dogged last week by questions about his comments in an interview that black NFL quarterbacks face greater scrutiny than their white counterparts - inquiries that had him defensive and led to him walking off the podium during a media session Wednesday.

"That wasn't part of my mind-set," McNabb said of his tumultuous week. "With everything that happened, we still have to play football."

A healthy and focused McNabb has the Eagles optimistic they can move beyond their 0-2 start and compete for the division title. Philadelphia, though, may have to overcome a key injury this week, as top running back Brian Westbrook is day to day with an abdominal sprain.

Westbrook, however, sat out all but one of last week's practices with a knee injury and turned in an outstanding all-around effort against the Lions, rushing for 110 yards and two touchdowns on 14 carries, and making five catches for 111 yards and a TD.

"Right now he's pretty sore," Reid said Wednesday.

The Giants (1-2) are also dealing with injury concerns. Receiver Plaxico Burress, who missed two practices last week because of an ankle problem, left the team Wednesday to visit noted orthopedist Dr. Robert Anderson in Charlotte, N.C.

Burress had five catches for 86 yards and the go-ahead touchdown in New York's 24-17 win over Washington on Sunday. With five TD receptions, he's tied with New England's Randy Moss for the league lead.

"Hopefully (there will be) some further recommendation as to what can be done to relieve the issue," coach Tom Coughlin said. "Plaxico actually the other day said to us that he has to practice. He has got to practice. He is not practicing and he is coming into the games. To his credit he knows his assignments, but obviously he is not as sharp as he could be."

Burress' right ankle has been bothering him since he injured it in training camp, but his teammates aren't too concerned about him being ready Sunday.

"Plax, we call him 'Game Day,'" middle linebacker Antonio Pierce said. "On game day he shows up regardless of what anyone wants to say about him during the week. The guy has been in the league long enough, eight years, and he knows how to take care of himself."

The Giants badly want Burress on the field Sunday, but they may be able to rely on a resurgent defense that preserved the badly needed victory over the Redskins.

New York gave up 80 points and more than 600 yards in losing its first two games, but shut out Washington and allowed only 81 total yards in the second half in rallying from a 17-3 deficit at the break.

The Giants capped the effort by stopping the Redskins after Washington had first-and-goal at the 1 with 58 seconds left.

"Just the jubilation you feel when you're running off the field after making a big stop like that, in the division, on the road," defensive tackle Barry Cofield said. "I'll never forget it."

Cofield and the defense will look to carry over the effort against another division foe as the Giants hope to get a strong effort on both sides of the ball. Eli Manning threw for 232 yards against Washington, although he had two interceptions and one touchdown. The TD, however, came on a 33-yard pass to Burress that proved to be the winning score with 2:01 left.

Derrick Ward ran for 94 yards on 26 carries and had six catches for 26 yards, while Reuben Droughns scored on a pair of 1-yard touchdown runs - the Giants' first rushing TDs of the season.

The Eagles and Giants split last year's two meetings, with each team winning on the road.

>>FoxSports

Biggest thing to look for in this game, is the running game for both teams. Pain in the rear Tiki Barber is no longer an issue, but will Derrick Ward be a new problem?

Then there is Westbrook's injury. How bad is it? If he is limited, or misses the game, It would obviously be a huge blow to the Eagles offense.

Check Out Eagles FanCast

2007-09-28T13:06:00.000-04:00

A really cool new site, where three Eagles fans tell it like it is. A weekly podcast shows wraps up every Eagles game. Go to http://www.eaglesfancast.net and don't forget to bookmark the page.

Phillies Win! Screw the Muts!

2007-09-27T22:27:00.000-04:00

Ryan Howard and Pat Burrell hit two-run home runs and rookie Kyle Kendrick pitched six solid innings, as the Philadelphia Phillies moved into a tie for the NL East lead with a 6-4 victory over the Atlanta Braves.

Jeff Francoeur greeted Phillies closer Brett Myers with a leadoff homer in the ninth and Matt Diaz reached base on a one-out single. Myers, however, got pinch-hitter Yunel Escobar to line out and then struck out Kelly Johnson to move Philadelphia into a first-place tie with the reeling New York Mets, who lost 3-0 to St. Louis on Thursday.

The Phillies, who were seven games back of the first-place Mets as recently as September 12, have not reached the postseason since 1993.

Philadelphia hosts Washington to close out the season this weekend, while the Mets have three games at home against Florida.

Howard hit his 44th home run of the season while Kendrick (10-4) gave up three runs on six hits for the Phillies, who have won 11 of their last 14. Myers escaped trouble in the ninth for his 21st save of the season.

Braves starter John Smoltz (14-8) was tagged for seven hits and six runs -- five earned -- through just four innings of work. The right-hander did strike out eight without walking a batter.

Chipper Jones and Mark Teixeira hit back-to-back home runs in the sixth inning for Atlanta.

Philadelphia took advantage of a pair of fielding errors by Atlanta in the first inning to jump out to a 4-0 lead.

Jimmy Rollins started the inning with a single and Shane Victorino followed with a perfectly-placed bunt down the left line. Smoltz tried to make a play on the ball but his throw sailed wide as Rollins scored and Victorino reached third.

Chase Utley ripped a line drive that bounced off the glove Teixeira, allowing Victorino to cross home plate. Ryan Howard then stepped to the plate and smoked a 2-2 offering from Smoltz into the right field bleachers to make it 4-0.

The Phillies added to their lead in third as Aaron Rowand reached base on a two-out double and Burrell connected on his 30th home run of the season to make it 6-0.

Kendrick, meanwhile, tossed five shutout innings before running into trouble in the sixth. Edgar Renteria singled with one out and Jones followed with his 29th home run of the season to get Atlanta on the board. Teixeira's 30th homer of the season brought the Braves within three, but Kendrick retired the next two batters to end the inning.

Game Notes

With a third inning strikeout at the hands of Smoltz, Howard struck out for the 196th time this season, setting the major's single-season strikeout record. Cincinnati's Adam Dunn set the previous record in 2004...Smoltz hadn't allowed more than two runs in his previous four starts, going 2-0 over that span...Atlanta and Philadelphia split the season series 9-9.

>>SportsNetwork

Fix You

2007-09-26T20:40:00.000-04:00

An old video, but a good one.

Injuries, Honors For Westbrook

2007-09-26T17:14:00.000-04:00

Brian Westbrook was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week on Wednesday. Unfortunately, the running back also topped the list of five starters who did not participate in the team's first practice of the week.

Head coach Andy Reid outlined his team's fluid injury situation during his late morning press conference. Tight end L.J. Smith has been ruled out for Sunday night's game as he continues his recovery from last Friday's groin surgery.

Meanwhile, Westbrook (abdominal strain), free safety Brian Dawkins (neck stinger), cornerback Lito Sheppard (knee) and left tackle William Thomas (knee) all remain day-to-day with their respective injuries, although Reid said they are all "improving."

Some more than others.

"It's not by big strides that he's getting better, but he is making improvement," Reid said of Westbrook. "It was important a day or two after the game that he wasn't regressing at all."

Westbrook missed all but one practice last week due to a knee strain, but that didn't limit his productivity against the Lions. He had 110 yards rushing, 111 more receiving and three touchdowns before leaving Sunday's game with what he termed as a "freak" injury.

"I made a move," Westbrook said. "I kind of twisted my body a little bit."

Westbrook missed one game in 2004 after suffering a cracked rib and chest contusion, but he says this injury is completely different.

"It's a muscle type deal. It's muscles in there that are strained," he said. "Ribs are one of those injuries where you really can't give it a rest, because every time you move, you feel it and you are using that muscle. I've never had this injury before.

"I'm doing everything to get in a position so I can play."

Although he is unable to practice, Westbrook says he's keeping up to speed in the classroom and maintaining his conditioning. Bottom line: he is preparing to play.

"It's just [about] getting to a point where you're comfortable enough to go out there and perform at a high level," Westbrook said. "Like I said before, every time you move, you use your ribs and the muscle between your ribs. So that's something I have to be concerned with. I'm trying to do everything possible to get there. Really, only time will tell. I'm preparing myself as if I am going to play."

Said Reid: "We'll just see how he feels through these next couple of days."

That wait-and-see approach seems to apply to the other injured players as well. A determination on their status for the game, Reid indicated, could come as late as pre-game Sunday.

"I want everybody that can play to play. If they can't, then they can't. It's pretty simple, whether you have a bye week or not," Reid said. "Those are just day-to-day situations. We'll just see how they progress here. They're living in the training room. So, they're getting plenty of treatment and we'll see how they do."

Thomas left Sunday's game in the third quarter with an MCL sprain, but Reid says it's not as severe as the one that has sidelined Sheppard the last two games.

"[It's] not quite the same. [It's] not quite as bad as what Lito had," Reid said.

Sheppard has done some conditioning work of late but has yet to participate in practice. Dawkins, meanwhile, remains sidelined because of a neck stinger he sustained last Monday night.

"Both of them are Pro Bowl players and we'd love to have them," Reid said of Dawkins and Sheppard. "But the guys that have replaced them and stepped in for them have done a nice job."

Reserves on both sides of the ball -- Quintin Mikell, William James, Joselio Hanson, Matt Schobel, Brent Celek and Winston Justice -- have filled in admirably when called upon in recent weeks and may be called upon heavily again Sunday night at the Meadowlands.

>>Home Page

Complete Detroit Lions Game

2007-09-26T03:44:00.000-04:00

Young Birds Making Names For Themselves

2007-09-26T01:46:00.000-04:00

Trent Cole and Brodrick Bunkley have stepped forward on the Eagles defensive line with their play and they're developing reputations around the league. While they're stepping forward, veteran Jevon Kearse is stepping back.

The play of Brodrick Bunkley has been nothing short of outstanding all season. Bunkely has put away his joy stick, he’s one of the best Madden players on the team. Last year some of the guys thought he was more interested in the Madden game than the real one he was supposed to be playing.

Brodrick with the help of fellow defensive tackle, Mike Patterson who is mature beyond his years, has been focused on football and doing his job. There’s very little kidding around for Bunkley this year. He has beeen able to get consistent penetration against the run and pressure in the face of quarterbacks versus the pass. The key has been his focus. Now Bunkley is showing the quickness, power and explosiveness, which everybody saw at Florida State when he came out of school.

This big meat head is going to be a major help to the Eagles defensive backs and linebackers all year long. The importance of pressure in the face of the quarterback can’t be overemphasized. As I have written many times, penetration in the middle of an offensive line, makes both passing and running impossible.

..Continue reading at GCobb.com>>

Eagles vs Lions Highlights

2007-09-24T00:24:00.000-04:00

Eagles Tame Lions

2007-09-23T16:40:00.000-04:00

Birds Route Detroit 56-21

Eagles bounce back in a big way. With their backs against the wall, wearing the ugliest jerseys ever, the Eagles offense came to life. Except for a few bad play from Will James, and the Matador tackler, the Eagles defense was pretty solid.

McNabb Was Awesome:

A good mix of run, and pass was one reason the offense flourished, but the biggest key was that Donovan McNabb was outstanding. I really believe that taking the knee brace off, is the difference between the McNabb of last week, and the McNabb that threw for four TDs today. He was able to get full use of his knee, that gave him much better footwork, and resulted in very accurate passes. Donovan also seemed much quicker without the brace, and more like his old self. If he continues to play like this in coming weeks, everybody might forget that he even had a knee injury.

Donovan took a lot of heat this past week from fans, and the media nation wide. I think a lot of people are just impatient, and need to really shut up when it comes to Donovan McNabb. He is the best QB in Eagles franchise history, so cheer, and enjoy him while you can.

The Ultimate Weapon:

Brian Westbrook shows once again that he is such a big time play maker, as he gets 110 yards rushing, 111 yards receiving, and 3 touchdowns. The offensive line gets a lot of credit, for paving the way for Brian, but once he got in the open field, he shows why he is one of the best players in the NFL. Eluding tackles, and bowling through others, Brian just always seems to make guys miss tackles. I know this is the Detroit Lions defense, but he does this to every team.

Westbrook was snubbed from the Pro Bowl last year, but maybe this year he can get in.

Hat Trick:

That's right, three touchdowns for WR Kevin Curtis. Curtis had the biggest day of any Eagles receiver since TO. His biggest catch, was the first touchdown of the game where he put a great double move on the corner, and beat him for a 68 yard bomb.

That play started everything off, and the offense just opened up, as Curtis finished the game with 11 catches for 221 yards.

A lot of people ripped the signing of Kevin Curtis, and cried about the departure of Donte Stallworth. Well now I wonder how they feel about this move. Curtis just exploded today, and Stallworth has not done much in New England.

Sack Attack:

The Eagles brought heavy pressure on QB Jon Kitna, and surprisingly a lot of it came without blitzing. Trent Cole lead the way with a huge day, getting three sacks, and forcing a fumble. Cole is having a great season, and continues to get to the QB.

Jevon Kearse has done nothing over the last two games, but his backup Juqua Thomas had 2 sacks, and a forced fumble. Juqua has been a great pickup, and he also continues to get a ton of pressure on the QB.

Brodrick Bunkley had 2 sacks as well, and Quintin Mikell had a nice sack on a blitz. Mikell did an excellent job filling in for the injured Brian Dawkins, and he again proves how valuable he is to this team.

Sean Considine had a great interception, tip toeing in the back of the end zone, right before halftime. Great to see Sean make a big play.

Will James sucked again. He repeatedly got picked on, and exposed as a slow almost useless player to even have on the team. Shaun McDonald blew past him on the quick slant that lead to the Lions first TD. James also let Roy Williams catch the ball, and never even layed a finger on him, as he just kept on running to the end zone.

Joselio Hanson also had a shot at Williams, but of course he was unable to make the tackle. Hanson also dropped what should have been a interception for six the other way.

I am not sure which is worse, a corner who can't run, or a corner that can't tackle. I guess at this point, they should just bump Hanson up, because while James is like a traffic cone out there. Please get well soon Lito.

Jerseys Are Still Ugly:

There are a lot of superstitious people in the world, who think a teams jersey color could change the outcome of the game. For example, many people think the Eagles alternate black jersey is bad luck. Well I don't care that the Eagles blew out the Lions in these hideous rags.

I never want to see the Eagles wear this Jersey again!

The only people that the jersey looks good on is the Cheerleaders.

Dawkins Out

2007-09-23T12:52:00.001-04:00

The Eagles were without the services of Pro Bowl free safety Brian Dawkins and Pro Bowl cornerback Lito Sheppard on Sunday against the Detroit Lions, who entered the game with the league's top-rated passing attack.

Dawkins did not practice all week because of a neck stinger. Sheppard, who missed last Monday's game with a MCL sprain, took part in a conditioning workout Friday but was not able to play. Quintin Mikell started for Dawkins and William James for Sheppard. Joselio Hanson served as the nickel back.

Also inactive for the Eagles were linebacker Pago Togafau, tight end L.J. Smith, guard Scott Young, defensive tackle LaJuan Ramsey and defensive end Victor Abiamiri. The only inactive that affected the starting lineup was at tight end where Matt Schobel started for Smith, who on Friday underwent surgery on his groin. A.J. Feeley was designated as the third (emergency) quarterback.

The Lions' pass rush took a hit as they were without defensive end Kalimba Edwards. Corey Smith started for Edwards.

On offense, running back Kevin Jones was active for Detroit, while tight end Dan Campbell was placed on IR and replaced in the starting lineup by Sean McHugh.

>>Home Page

Are the Eagles really going to lose to the Lions?

2007-09-22T16:24:00.000-04:00

Backs against the wall:

The Eagles are trying to avoid their first 0-3 start, since 1999. The team they face is the Detroit Lions. Usually that would be great news for a struggling team, but this may not be your typical woeful Lions team.

In 2003 the Eagles started 0-2, and were able to amazingly finish the year 12-4. Can this team duplicate that same magical run? Not likely if McNabb continues to struggle. He needs to forget the past two weeks, and step it up this week. The season is on the line. An 0-3 hole is too big to climb out of.

Not the same ole Lions:

This Lions team is 2-0, and is loaded with offensive talent. Especially at the WR position. Roy Williams is one of the leagues elite, and Calvin Johnson is quickly proving he belongs among that group too. Former Rams receiver Shaun McDonald is also a threat that has to be accounted for. Not having Lito Sheppard causes huge mismatch problems, as the Eagles will now have to rely on Will James, and Joselio Hanson much more than they should.

The Lions do not particulary run the ball well, but they do have a good group of backs. Tatum Bell has explosive speed, and TJ Duckett is a load between the tackles. If the Lions can sustain any kind of running attack, they will probably have the Eagles defense on their heels.

Starting QB Jon Kitna made a bold prediction in the pre-season, that the Lions would win ten games this year, and so far it is looking good. He is a solid veteran, and is a very tough guy. He left last weeks game against the Vikings with a concussion, but was able to return in the next quarter to lead his team to victory. He has a strong arm, and is very capable of hitting those big time receivers deep for big plays.

This offense will be a huge test for the Birds, and one I do not feel very confient that they will do well against.
Defensively the Lions are pretty average. However, Shaun Rogers, and Cory Redding are one of the best DT tandems in the league. Second year linebacker Ernie Sims is a tackling machine. DE Dewayne White is an undersized speed end, similar to Trent Cole. He was a very underrated pickup in this offseason, and he has made a bunch of plays for Detroit already. Linebacker Boss Bailey has not done much in his career, but after two games in 2007, he already has two sacks.

The Lions secondary no longer has Dre Bly, and Terrance Holt, but has played pretty well so far. If there was any group that the Eagles should attack, it is this one. People have been ripping the receivers a lot, and if they can't get open agains Detroit, the Eagles are in serious trouble.

McNabb takes off the brace:

McNabb practices without brace
Bob Kent, of PhiladelphiaEagles.com, reports Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (knee) participated in practice without a brace on his surgically repaired right knee Friday, Sept. 21.

>>KFFL

Maybe it is the knee brace, that is disrupting Donovan's footwork. If he can confidently play without it, I think you may see his accuracy dramatically improve. Keep an eye out early, to see if he is wearing it or not.

Time to run the ball Andy:

Enough of this 75% pass happy offense. To help McNabb out, and the offense out, the Eagles must run the ball much more. When they do hand off to Westbrook, he makes good things happen. This issue has been hammered in the media time, and time again, and now everybody should just pray that Andy will get the message. Run the ball Andy!

Ugly UCLA Jerseys:

These are probably the ugliest football jerseys i have ever seen. The design, color scheme, and helmet, are all terrible. Any other Eagles throwback jersey would have been a better choice. I personally would have liked to see the Kelly green. If the Eagles lose, I am partially blaming the ugly jerseys.

Brown defends wide receivers

2007-09-21T20:27:00.000-04:00

Reggie Brown has one word for all those who claim the Eagles wide receivers never got open Monday against Washington.

"Hogwash," he said Thursday.

"Do these quote-unquote experts actually watch the game, or are they just looking at the quarterback?" the third-year wide receiver said. "Most of the time when you see a game, you can't even see the receivers."

Brown has been conspicuous in his absence from the Eagles' play-to-play offense so far in two games, both defeats in which the offense underperformed.

He has a total of three catches for 41 yards so far, but late in the 20-12 loss to the Redskins, there were some rays of hope. Brown made a tough 19-yard fourth-down catch to keep alive a Philadelphia drive.

On Wednesday, head coach Andy Reid pointed to that drive as a sign that the Eagles offense might be emerging from the fog that has cost them two games.

Brown agreed.

"I think we started playing with a little bit more energy," he said of the fourth quarter. "Everybody focused in and we feel like we had to do it.

"It didn't feel like a sense of panic in the huddle. It felt like a feeling of confidence and unity and a sense of responsibility that we needed to go down and do this.

"Not panic."

Brown was a significant part of the Eagles' big-play potential in 2006, a potential that has not yet been realized this season.

Offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said that Philadelphia's inability to hit on plays downfield has partly been a function of the defenses they have faced, which have sought to cut that aspect off.

Brown said that because the offensive timing has been off, the Eagles haven't been unable to hit on the shorter routes enough to draw defenses out of their prevent modes.

>>CourierPostOnline

L.J. Smith Out Sunday

2007-09-21T16:27:00.000-04:00

L.J. Smith underwent surgery Friday to clean out some scar tissue surrounding his injured groin. The tight end has been ruled out for Sunday's game, and his recovery and rehab is said to be week-to-week.

Smith, who had offseason sports hernia surgery, strained his groin in training camp and has been fighting the injury since. This week, however, it reached a point where Smith was unable to participate in practice.

"He seemed like he was getting a little bit worse, so we referred him to Dr. (William) Meyers, who did the sports hernia surgery on him and Dr. Meyers suggested last night that he have a procedure this morning to free up some of the space there in his groin," explained Eagles head athletic trainer Rick Burkholder.

"It was a 20-minute procedure in which he opened up the sheath around the muscle, which gives him a little bit more room. It allowed fluid to drain out of the muscle that was injured back in training camp. It had a collection of fluid in there. And he also cleaned out a bunch of scar tissue which was around the muscle and also around the nerve, which was probably what was causing him pain."

The injury has certainly limited his productivity as evidenced by his numbers through two games -- 26 yards on four receptions.

Burkholder would not put a timetable on Smith's return, but did point out the positives about the situation.

"The one good thing about this surgery is they didn't have to fix anything," Burkholder said. "You don't have to wait for anything to really heal. You just have to wait for all that swelling and everything to go down and let him get back to function where he can play football at a normal level.

"We're going to take it week-to-week. We'll see how he does next week."

Veteran Matt Schobel and rookie Brent Celek will play in place of Smith against the Lions.

On defense, free safety Brian Dawkins did not practice Friday due to neck spasms, while Pro Bowl cornerback Lito Sheppard did some conditioning work.

Dawkins' status will likely be determined at game time, while Sheppard's return was termed a "longshot" by head coach Andy Reid.

On offense, running back Brian Westbrook practiced fully Friday and is expected to start

Quarterback Donovan McNabb practiced without a brace on his surgically-repaired right knee. He wore a sleeve over the knee, but no brace. It's uncertain what protection he will wear on Sunday.

>>PhiladelphiaEagles.com

Donovan Stands By Comments

2007-09-21T00:28:00.000-04:00

Injuries: B-West, B-Dawk Remain Sidelined

2007-09-20T17:58:00.001-04:00

Thursday came and went without much of an update on Brian Westbrook. Dressed in his jersey and shorts and wearing an Eagles sideline hat, the running back watched practice much like he did on Wednesday.

"That's a day to day situation," offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said earlier in the day. "We'll see."

The strained knee that Westbrook suffered in Monday night's game was scheduled to be looked at further by team physicians.

Westbrook's official designation for Sunday's game against the Lions will come Friday when head coach Andy Reid holds his final media briefing.

Correll Buckhalter has taken reps with the first-team offense, while Westbrook has undoubtedly gotten plenty of mental reps as a spectator.

Westbrook has accounted for 53 percent of the total net yards the offense has produced over the first two games.

Knee swelling limited Westbrook's practice reps early last season but he missed just one game -- the Monday night win over Green Bay -- and finished the season with a career-high 1,217 rushing yards.

Dawk, Smith, Lito Remain Sidelined

In addition to Westbrook, the team practiced Thursday without cornerback Lito Sheppard, free safety Brian Dawkins and tight end L.J. Smith.

Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson seemed optimistic about having at least one of those defensive starters in the lineup for Sunday.

"We anticipate he's going to be there Sunday," Johnson said of Dawkins. "We don't plan on Lito right now."

Dawkins suffered a neck stinger as a result of a hit he put on Redskins tight end Todd Yoder in the fourth quarter. On Wednesday, Dawkins said his neck was a "little stiff" and that he was not experiencing any headaches or dizziness. Johnson expects to have Dawkins back on the field Friday.

Sheppard remains sidelined with an MCL sprain suffered in the season opener.

Smith, meanwhile, continues to fight a nagging groin strain that has hampered the tight end since training camp. The injury has limited his productivity as evidenced by his numbers through two games -- four catches for 26 yards.

"L.J. is a tough guy. He's been playing hurt," said offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg. "Whoever is in there, we expect to play well."

Matt Schobel and rookie Brent Celek could see extended action this weekend depending on Smith's status.

Seven Added; Two Return

Seven players were added to the team's injury report Thursday although all of them participated fully in practice. Those players included kicker David Akers (quadricep), right guard Shawn Andrews (shoulder), receivers Hank Baskett (back), Kevin Curtis (quadricep) and Greg Lewis (hip), quarterback A.J. Feeley (hand) and defensive end Jevon Kearse (shoulder).

Meanwhile, strong safety Sean Considine and left tackle William Thomas were back on the field after sitting out Wednesday. Considine suffered a knee contusion Monday night, but returned to the game. Thomas exited Monday's game with back spasms, a condition he's battled on and off for the last five years.

Lions Injury Update

Starting tight end Dan Campbell missed practice for a second straight day due to an elbow injury. Backup running back T.J. Duckett (ankle) also missed practice again.

Starting defensive end Kalimba Edwards (ankle) sat out Thursday's practice. He was limited in Wednesday's workout.

Sarting nose tackle Shaun Rogers (knee) and running back Kevin Jones (foot), a former first-round pick, were both limited for a second straight day.

Added to Detroit's report were starting left tackle Jeff Backus (knee) and reserve linebacker Anthony Cannon (quad), both of whom did not practice Thursday.

>>HomePage

New Pats Logo T-Shirt

2007-09-19T22:33:00.000-04:00

EBay has been selling these Patriots Tee Shirts with their new logo. Get them while their hot.

Bengals Sign Bowtie Guy

2007-09-19T22:27:00.000-04:00

The Cincinnati Bengals signed veteran linebacker Dhani Jones to one-year contract on Wednesday. Terms of the deal were not released.

Jones, an eight-year veteran, had eight tackles and a sack during five preseason games with New Orleans. The Saints cut him on August 31.

A sixth-round choice of the New York Giants in the 2000 draft, Jones has played in 95 career games with 74 starts, recording 447 tackles (113 solo) with four sacks. He has not missed a game over the last four seasons, spending the 2003 campaign with the Giants and the next three seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.

He played all 16 games, including 13 starts last season for the NFC East champion Eagles in 2006, recording 93 tackles. Jones also had 10 more tackles in a pair of playoff games.
Jones was released by the Eagles on April 30 of this year.

The Bengals released linebacker Andre Frazier on Tuesday to clear a roster spot for Jones.

>>TheSportsNetwork

When your defense gives up 50 points to the Cleveland Browns, bringing in Banjo Boy is always the logical solution.

Patriots Cheating Video Released

2007-09-19T15:12:00.000-04:00

Brian Dawkins is Weapon X

2007-09-19T14:52:00.000-04:00

J.R. Reed to return again?

2007-09-19T00:27:00.000-04:00

Rumor has it, that the Eagles are going to sign S/KR J.R. Reed, and it will be announced today around 10. After having both Brian Dawkins, and Sean Considine leave the game with injuries, the Eagles probably feel it is not a good thing to only carry three safeties on the roster. I just pray to god they never put him back out as a punt returner again.

UPDATE:

It has been a roller coaster past couple of weeks for safety J.R. Reed.

The Eagles re-signed Reed on Wednesday only eight days after they released him. The Eagles had claimed him off waivers after Reed spent eight days as a member of the New York Giants at the end of training camp.

The Eagles claimed him to utilize his experience as a kickoff returner against the Green Bay Packers, where he averaged 22 yards per return on three attempts. However, it was a muffed punt late in the fourth quarter that was recovered by the Packers and led to the game-winning field goal. Reed handled punt return duties for the first time in his NFL career in the second half after a muff by Greg Lewis, also in his first game as a punt returner, was recovered by the Packers in the end zone for a touchdown.

The Eagles signed veteran Reno Mahe to return punts last week and released Reed. In Monday night's loss to Washington, free safety Brian Dawkins suffered a stinger injury and cornerback Lito Sheppard sat out with an MCL sprain. While the status for both players for Sunday's game against Detroit is unknown, neither practiced on Wednesday, the Eagles re-signed Reed to provide some insurance. Originally a fourth-round pick of the Eagles in 2004, Reed knows coordinator Jim Johnson's scheme.

To make room on the roster, the Eagles released tackle Pat McCoy. A rookie free agent signee of the Eagles last year, McCoy impressed the coaches during training camp and made the final 53-man roster. A Division II All-America selection at West Texas A&M, McCoy was inactive for all 16 regular season games last year and both contests this season.

The Eagles also tweaked their practice squad by releasing tight end Lee Vickers and adding tackle Jonathan Palmer. A rookie free agent signee this year, Palmer spent the entire training camp with the Eagles and was released during the final roster cuts on Sept. 1. Vickers was an intriguing prospect, who learned the tight end position after playing at defensive end at North Alabama and in Steelers training camp last year.

>>PhiladephiaEagles.com

Eagles Lose Again. Mass Hysteria Ensues

2007-09-18T13:30:00.000-04:00

Time to press the panic button?

I know many fans already have, and I can't blame them. The Eagles are 0-2, and this was supposed to be the "easy" part of the schedule. Last week the offensive woes were overlooked because of the two muffed punts. This week it was painfully clear that the offense has major problems, and the entire nation saw it.

Donovan is not Super Five anymore:

As the offense puttered down the field, like an 85 Buick with a bad transmission, It was painfully obvious that there is something majorly wrong with Donovan McNabb. He is very inaccurate with his throws, and as he admitted himself, the "explosion" is not there when he runs. McNabb sailed a few high, had a few behind, a few too far in front, and even mixed in a few worm burners. Some blame the receivers, but I am not buying it. Last year the Eagles offense was explosive with the same receivers minus Kevin Curtis. The receivers are not the problem, it is Donovan. Poor footwork seems to be the reason he can't make these throws, and that is a result of the bad knee. If this is the case, then you will not see the Donovan of old, for at least another full year. The problem with that is, this season could be a wash, and I don't think Eagles fans are willing to be that patient. If you listen to talk radio, people are already starting the "get him outta here" talk.

Playcalling:

All the talk of the Eagles being more dedicated to the run seems to be just talk. They started off the Greenbay with a balanced attack, and then in the second half, they completely got away from running the ball. that carried over into last night, as the Eagles called 51 passing plays, and only 18 run plays. That is a 73-27 pass/run ratio. That is completely mind boggling how bad that is. When Ron Jaworski said the Eagles are a great play action pass team, I laughed. How can any team respect the Birds play action? I also wonder if Andy Reid has been calling the plays again. This game has his finger prints all over it, and I am willing to bet he would be stubborn enough to take back the play calling. You need to have balance in the NFL to win, and I doubt that Reid will ever get it at this point.

Defense Misses Lito:

Will James is terrible. I don't care that he got an interception, on a bad pass by Jason Campbell, Will James was getting killed all game. He does not have the ability to stay with speed receivers. The Redskins picked on him all game long, and for the most part they abused Will James. In the 4th quarter, the Redskins took a shot downfield, and Santana Moss put a move on James that left him in the dust. James was 8 yards behind Moss, and lucked out when Campbell overthrew everybody. I am really missing Rod Hood a lot right now, and so are the Eagles.

Then there is this stiff Joselio Hanson. After the Redskins had 3 penalties in a row, near the end of the first half, how do you let Chris Cooley get behind you? To cover James thrash of all people? The Eagles all week long focused on defending Chirs Cooley, and Hanson blew it at a crucial time. I would also like to point out, that Hanson tackles like a girl. He waits for guys to come to him, and then tackles their legs from behind. As a defensive player, you need to attack the ball carrier. Fly to the football, wrap up, and drive your body through the offesnive player. From now on Joselio is going to be known as the Matador tackler.

He is not the only one who missed tackles though. Sheldon Brown, Sean Considine, and even Brian Dawkins missed tackles. This is something that drives me absoloutely crazy. The Eagles used to be a great tackling team back in 2002, and each year, it seems to get worse. Now it is to the point where you expect at least 4 or 5 missed tackles a game.

The defense overall did a lot of things well, but there are still some issues there. Brodrick Bunkley, Juqua Thomas, Omar Gaither, Mike Patterson, and Takeo Spikes all played very well. I just think after seeing how bad Will James looked, that teams are going to continue to exploit him all season long, and that could kill them.

Reno Returns:

Reno Mahe is back, and got a standing ovation when he went on the field for the first time. Very ironic that the same people who wanted him gone so badly, are now delighted to see him back. As expected Reno did not break anything big, but he made no mistakes. He also was sporting a new number(25), because his old number(34) was taken by practice squad FB Jason Davis.

More Injuries:

Free safety Brian Dawkins and running back Brian Westbrook are among four starters hurting a day after Monday night's loss to Washington, but head coach Andy Reid doesn't believe the injuries are serious enough to keep them out for Sunday's home game against Detroit.

Dawkins sustained a neck stinger as a result of a hit he put on Redskins tight end Todd Yoder in the fourth quarter. The Pro Bowl free safety was down for some time before being helped up and led down the tunnel. Dawkins underwent an MRI on Tuesday and Reid said "he'll be alright as the week goes on here."

Westbrook, who has 51 touches in the first two games, suffered a knee strain.

"He twisted his knee a little bit," Reid said of his prized running back.

Westbrook had 96 rushing yards and 66 receiving to lead the Eagles in both categories Monday night and the head coach believes as far as workload goes Westbrook is "right about where he needs to be."Meanwhile, L.J. Smith continues to fight a nagging groin strain that has hampered the tight end since training camp. The injury has certainly limited his productivity as evidenced by Smith's numbers through two games -- 26 yards on four receptions.

"He'll just keep working through this thing," Reid said.

Up front, left tackle William Thomas exited the game with back spasms, a condition he's battled on and off for the last five years."I think that's one thing we'll have to deal with," Reid said. "We dealt with it before."Back spasms cost Thomas one game back in 2003, but overall he has been a steady presence as Donovan McNabb's blindside bodyguard. Thomas has started 136 of 137 career games.

Second-year man Winston Justice replaced Thomas and "did a nice job," according to Reid.

Justice could get some extra work with the first-team offense this week as coaches may look to get Thomas some rest.

Back on defense, Pro Bowl cornerback Lito Sheppard is reportedly getting better with an MCL sprain he suffered in the season opener. Will James started in place of Sheppard on Monday night and James responded with his first interception as an Eagle.

>>Home Page

Can this season be salvaged?:

Is is possible to come back from 0-2, and make the playoffs? Yes it is. In fact the 2003 Eagles finished the season 12-4 after an 0-2 start, and went to the NFCCG. I don't think that this team is capable of doing the same thing, and the reason is obvious.

McNabb is not the same. With this knee hindering Donovan's throws, he may play poorly all season. Now that A.J. Feeley has a broken hand, the only other option right now is rookie Kevin Kolb. If you go to Kolb, you would really just be throwing in the towel. I think this team can play much better, but after what I have seen the past two games, they are clearly not a contender. even if Andy Reid shifted this offense to be more run oriented, they still would have problems with McNabb's erratic passes. It's going to take a miracle for things to turn around again like they did in 2003.

Eagles vs Redskins Preview

2007-09-15T16:41:00.000-04:00

Are you Ready for Some Football?

Donovan McNabb returns to the scene of his devastating knee injury on Monday night, when the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback leads his team into the latest installment of a division rivalry with the Washington Redskins.

McNabb will be playing his first meaningful game at Lincoln Financial Field since last Nov. 19th, when he tore his right ACL after being nudged out of bounds by Tennessee Titans defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch. The five-time Pro Bowl honoree would miss the final eight games of the 2006 campaign, and would watch as backup Jeff Garcia rallied Philly from a 5-5 start to a 10-6 record and a division title.

Garcia is now a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and McNabb is attempting to work himself back to 100 percent health.

After appearing sparingly in the preseason, the Syracuse product played to mixed reviews in last week's 16-13 loss at Green Bay.

McNabb completed just 15-of-33 passes for 184 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the defeat, running his career record to 3-5 in Week 1 starts.

On Monday, McNabb will be trying to keep Philadelphia from its first 0-2 opening since 2003.
The Redskins, meanwhile, will be attempting to build on last week's 16-13 overtime win over the Dolphins, and will also be trying to reverse some dismal recent history against the Eagles.
Washington is 2-9 in its last 11 meetings with Philadelphia, and has averaged just 14.2 points per game over that span.

SERIES HISTORY
The Redskins hold a 74-64-5 lead in their all-time series with the Eagles, but were swept in a home-and-home by their NFC East rival last season. Washington was a 27-3 loser at Lincoln Financial Field in Week 10, and dropped a 21-19 decision at FedEx Field in Week 14. Washington swept a 2005 home-and-home with Philly, including a 31-20 road win.

In addition to their regular season advantage, the Redskins won the only postseason meeting between the clubs, a 20-6 road triumph in a 1990 NFC First- Round Playoff.

Washington head coach Joe Gibbs is 19-12 against the Eagles in his career, including the aforementioned playoff victory. Philadelphia's Andy Reid is 11-5 versus the Redskins since taking over in 1999, including 4-2 against Gibbs.

WHEN THE REDSKINS HAVE THE BALL
The strength of the Redskins offense in their win over the Dolphins was the running game, which saw Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts combined for 157 yards and a touchdown on 34 combined carries. Portis led the way with 98 yards and a score on 17 totes, in what was his first action since his 2006 ended prematurely due to a broken hand. The former Pro Bowler scored Washington's only touchdown of the day, a 19-yarder in the third quarter. Quarterback Jason Campbell was not at his sharpest, finishing the day 12-of-21 for 222 yards with two interceptions, and failing to throw a touchdown pass in a start for the first time in his young career. The club did see some progress in the receiving game however, with Antwaan Randle El turning in a career-best 162- yard day. Usual top targets Santana Moss (3 receptions, 28 yards) and tight end Chris Cooley (1 reception, 10 yards) were not as productive, however. Washington also lost right tackle Jon Jansen for the season due to a broken ankle in the victory.

A new-look Eagles linebacking corps looked good in the season-opening loss to Green Bay, but will face a much tougher task in facing Washington's stronger running game. New starters Takeo Spikes (9 tackles), Omar Gaither (3 tackles), and Chris Gocong (3 tackles) were at the heart of a unit that allowed just 46 ground yards on the day, while third-year man Mike Patterson contributed 10 stops and a sack from his interior line position. The pass rush received high marks against the Packers as well, with ends Trent Cole and Jevon Kearse combining for two of the team's four sacks on the day. In the secondary, cornerback Sheldon Brown was credited with his first interception of the season, but the Eagles took a hit when corner Lito Sheppard was lost for up to a month with a knee problem.

WHEN THE EAGLES HAVE THE BALL
Though McNabb will garner most of the headlines for Philadelphia in the build- up to Monday's contest, Washington will likely be just as focused on stopping running back and D.C-area native Brian Westbrook. The former Pro Bowler highlighted the Eagles' Week 1 loss, leading the Birds in both the ground (20 carries, 85 yards) and pass-catching games (6 receptions, 46 yards). McNabb will try to get his receivers more involved this week, specifically Reggie Brown (1 reception, 14 yards), Kevin Curtis (2 receptions, 53 yards), and tight end L.J. Smith (2 receptions, 14 yards), who were all mostly quiet in defeat. McNabb's most productive target was second-year man Jason Avant, who hauled in three passes for 54 yards and scored the club's lone touchdown of the day on a nine-yard play in the second quarter. McNabb was sacked just once against Green Bay.

A Redskins defense that had major trouble making plays in 2006 made a bit of progress against the Dolphins, managing to pry a turnover away from Miami and even getting to quarterback Trent Green for a couple of sacks. Linebacker Rocky McIntosh forced a Jesse Chatman fumble that was recovered by cornerback Shawn Springs in the second quarter, though the Redskins were unable to turn the miscue into any points. The sacks went to the blossoming McIntosh and defensive end Andre Carter, who built on a strong final month of '06 with his first QB takedown of the year. New faces in the Washington defensive lineup included middle linebacker London Fletcher, who made a team-best 12 tackles, and rookie safety LaRon Landry, the club's first-round draft pick who contributed three sacks to the proceedings. The Skins allowed just 273 yards of total offense in the win, including 66 on 20 carries in the ground game.

FANTASY FOCUS
McNabb and Portis were both seen as risky Week 1 fantasy plays, since managers weren't sure what either player would do coming off of their injuries. Those that started McNabb were likely disappointed, while those who put Portis in the lineup were largely rewarded for the risk. McNabb should get better from Week 1 to Week 2, and is worth starting.

Elsewhere for the Eagles, Westbrook always puts up numbers, David Akers is a reliable kicker, and the defense tends to turn in a few big plays. Stay away from this team's receivers, however. Washington has little to recommend besides perhaps Portis and maybe hot-and-cold tight end Chris Cooley, though kicker Shaun Suisham (three field goals last week) might get some consideration in a few leagues. Those who start Randle El based on last week's performance are likely to get burned - last Sunday was just the second 100-yard receiving game of the wideout's six- year pro career.

OVERALL ANALYSIS
Though these opponents experienced opposite results in Week 1, both showed a great deal about the teams they will likely become. The Redskins barely beat a pretty poor Dolphins club, not displaying much offensive consistency and still searching long and hard for big plays on defense. The Eagles lost to an inferior Packers team based mainly on special teams gaffes, but played reasonably well on defense and showed most of their rust on offense, where McNabb is not 100 percent. As he gets closer to full health, look for the quarterback to begin looking like himself again, and for Philly to restore its winning ways. Meanwhile, look for the same old Washington team to begin receding into its familiar place in the darkness with a loss on Monday night, setting suffering Skins fans up for yet another journey to the land of sub-.500.

Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Eagles 28, Redskins 10

>>Sports Network

Feeley Undergoes Second Surgery On Hand

2007-09-14T18:44:00.000-04:00

Head athletic trainer Rick Burkholder announced that quarterback A.J. Feeley had additional surgery performed Friday morning on his left (non-throwing) hand as a "precautionary" measure.

Feeley fractured the third metacarpal during the preseason finale against the New York Jets. Dr. John Taras performed the initial surgery on August 31 where he inserted three screws into Feeley's hand. After Thursday's practice, Feeley had abnormal swelling in the hand and visited with head physician Dr. Peter DeLuca, who referred him to Taras. After an examination, Taras determined that the screws were backing out. To repair the screws and give Feeley "the best chance (of playing) during the season," Taras reinforced the screws.

Feeley did not practice on Friday and his status for Monday night's game against Washington is questionable. There is no question about cornerback Lito Sheppard's status, he is out because of a sprained MCL ligament.

Five other Eagles were listed on the injury report: cornerback Joselio Hanson (concussion), defensive end Jevon Kearse (shoulder), wide receiver Greg Lewis (hip) and tight ends Matt Schobel (groin) and L.J. Smith (groin). All five players had full participation in Friday's practice and all are listed as probable.

For the Redskins, safety Vernon Fox (groin) did not practice on Friday and was listed as doubtful. Defensive end Phillip Daniels (foot) and safety Pierson Prioleau (hamstring) also did not participate in practice, but they were listed as questionable.

Cornerback Fred Smoot (hamstring) and tight end Todd Yoder (ankle) were added to the injury report on Friday. Both players had limited participation in Friday's workout, but they are listed as probable as is tight end Cody Boyd (shoulder) who had full participation in practice.

Eagles take on "Spygate"

2007-09-14T14:40:00.000-04:00

Sheldon Brown and the Eagles hoped a blitz would rattle Tom Brady.

One problem: Every time the Eagles rushed Brady in the Super Bowl, the Patriots nullified the defensive attack with screen passes. Lots of them. On almost every play defensive coordinator Jim Johnson called for a blitz, the Patriots used the short pass to confuse the Eagles.

After the Patriots beat the Eagles 24-21 in 2005 to win the Lombardi Trophy, Brown thought the Patriots beat them with nothing but sharp offensive playcalling. Now, he's not so sure.

With spying accusations leveled this week against the Patriots, some of the Eagles left from the NFC title team are wondering if New England used bootleg film to their advantage in the Super Bowl.

"Do I think about it? Mmm hmmm," said Brown, their starting cornerback. "It's crazy. I just don't know how far back it goes. Something's not right about that."

Pro Bowl safety Brian Dawkins found the accusations troublesome.

"Now there's always going to be questions about the situation," Dawkins said Thursday. "Was it great adjustments at halftime or what?"

Pittsburgh wide receiver Hines Ward said this week that he suspected the Patriots had some type of inside information on the Steelers before at least one of the teams' two AFC championship game matchups since the 2001 season. While Ward said the Patriots knew a lot of Pittsburgh's calls, none of the Eagles could offer any type of solid proof of any shenanigans.

"For me to think back two years ago about something they may or may not have done, it's not worth my time," running back Brian Westbrook said.

New England beat the New York Jets in last Sunday's season opener in which an on-field video camera allegedly focusing on Jets coaches was confiscated from a Patriots employee.

On Thursday, New England coach Bill Belichick was fined the NFL maximum of $500,000 and the Patriots were ordered to pay $250,000. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell also ordered the team to give up next year's first-round draft choice if it reaches the playoffs and second- and third-round picks if it doesn't.

"I would like to think it's just one team doing it, but it doesn't shock me that it happened," Dawkins said.

Some Eagles said occasional signal-stealing is an accepted part of the game. But they believe what the Patriots are accused of doing crosses the football morality line because it threatens the integrity of the game.

"It's different if you're talking about recording it," Dawkins said. "What can you do if you try to signal a play in?"

Eagles coach Andy Reid steered away from questions about the alleged cheating other than to say he has no doubts New England's victory was legitimate.

"That's something Bill and the Patriots are working through," Reid said.

Brown said he noticed a difference in New England's playcalling in the second quarter. After the Patriots gained only 45 yards in the first quarter, they had 286 over the next three.

Brady hit running back Corey Dillon and gained 29 total yards on a pair of screens to open New England's first full drive of the second quarter. They didn't score on that drive, but did on four of the next five drives.

The Patriots went to the screen pass again on the decisive drive early in the fourth quarter, this time with Brady connecting with Kevin Faulk on two passes for 27 yards.

"I was like, 'Man, I never saw that many screens,' " Brown said.

Brown wonders if it was normal playcalling from a team good enough to win three Super Bowls in four seasons, a Patriots team that used a strong scouting report to gain a fair edge, or was somebody picking up the Eagles defensive calls from a sideline camera that deprived them of a fair shot?

"I think they should forfeit, man," said punt returner Reno Mahe, smiling. "We won the Super Bowl. I think we should get it. I'm going to go trade my NFC championship ring for a Super Bowl ring."

The headline over a picture of Belichick on the back page of Thursday's Philadelphia Daily News might have said it all: "Counterfeit RING: Spy Scandal Helps Explain Birds' Super Bowl Loss."

Hey, maybe the illicit tape would show once and for all if Donovan McNabb really did get sick in the huddle late in the game. Remember, that was Philadelphia's first excuse for losing.

McNabb -- who insisted the Eagles would never stoop to those kind of tactics -- was surprised to hear the allegations against the Patriots. But he said the suspicions might be overblown.

"One thing people are forgetting is that even if you have the answers to the test, you still have to take the test," he said. "If they have an idea of what's coming, those guys still have to be able to execute the play."

That doesn't mean McNabb won't clear some space in his jewelry box. For a city that last saw a pro team win a championship nearly 25 years ago, the Eagles might accept a retroactive one.

"Maybe we'll get our ring back," said a chuckling McNabb. "Maybe we'll get the real one."

>>ESPN.com

Shady Brady and Bill Belicheat

2007-09-14T10:11:00.000-04:00

Patriots Cheated in Super Bowl XXXIX?

2007-09-13T13:38:00.001-04:00

Super Bowl 39. In Eagles fans memories, it goes down as the one they let get away. Everybody remembers how turnovers were crucial mistakes, and how the Eagles apparently forgot how to run the 2 minute offense at the end of the game down ten points.

This painful memory still haunts Philadelphia fans today. Some still seek answers, as to what went wrong in the big game, and many choose not to relive that game ever again. I don't blame them. Until now.

The news has come out, that the New England Patriots are cheaters. In a nasty scandal dubbed "Spygate", the Patriots were caught red handed, stealing defensive signals from their opponent.

Many ask now, how long has this been going on?

Who knows. Many teams have accused the Pats of doing this very thing before, but there has never been any hard evidence until now. Hopefully more details can be dug up.

I am sure Eagles fans only want to know one thing.

Did the Patriots cheat in the Super Bowl?

That is an answer that nobody will probably ever know, except the Patriots themselves. When you look at how that game played out though, the circumstantial evidence appears to be there.

While there were many factors, that decided that game, I am going to only focus on the Patriots offense, against the Eagles defense. In that aspect, it was a tale of two halves.

In the first half of the game, the Eagles defense was playing great. They were swarming to the ball, breaking up passes, getting sacks, disrupting Brady, and they even forced a fumble in the red zone. They had tamed the Pats offense, and at the end of the half, the score was tied at 7.

Then came the third quarter. The Patriots came out a different team, and were suddenly advancing the ball at will. It seemed that for every Jim Johnson blitz, the Patriots executed the perfect screen to beat it. Brady was suddenly able to hit Deon Branch almost at will, and the Eagles defense was on their heels.

What was so different in the second half?

The Patriots knew what the Eagles defense was doing, because they had stolen their signals. Just like the Jets game, they had somebody record all the defensive signals in the first half, and matched them up to the sky shots that are given by every team, to see what a defense is doing every play.

With this information, they knew what the defense was doing before they even walked to the line of scrimmage. They had an unfair competitive advantage, and I believe it cost the Eagles, and the city of Philadelphia a championship.

Now you might say that I am being a homer, or that this post is just sour grapes, but think outside the box for a minute. Could this have really happened?

If you even paused to think about it, then there is some doubt in your mind. The possibility exists, and I feel it happened. Can I prove it? No, but hopefully commissioner Roger Goodell does a very extensive investigation. There is a chance that more evidence could surface, and back up my point.

I know that the Eagles will not be handed the Lombardi no matter what, and that many other things factored into that horrible defeat, but it just angers me that the Eagles season of destiny was possibly stolen away from them.

Eagles Packers Highlights

2007-09-12T08:34:00.000-04:00

Mahe To The Rescue

2007-09-12T05:17:00.000-04:00

Two days after special teams miscues cost the Eagles the season opener in Green Bay, the team shored up its return game by re-signing Reno Mahe on Tuesday evening.

Mahe, a reserve running back for the Eagles from 2003 to 2006, led the NFL with an average punt return of 12.8 yards in 2005. During his career, he has returned 64 punts for the Eagles, averaging 9.4 yards per return.

Head coach Andy Reid said Monday that catching the ball was the most important thing for his returners going forward, and Mahe is a sure-handed option. He has fumbled on a punt return only once in his career.

To make room for Mahe on the roster, the Eagles released safety J.R. Reed. In his first-ever game as a punt returner and on his third opportunity of the game, Reed muffed a punt that was recovered by the Packers at the Eagles' 31-yard line with 59 seconds remaining in the game. The Packers won the game on a Mason Crosby 42-yard field goal with just six seconds left. In the first quarter, Greg Lewis fumbled a punt that was recovered in the end zone for a touchdown.

Mahe, who was living in Utah prior to his signing, jumped on a flight to Philadelphia early Tuesday morning and worked out for team personnel. He will not wear No. 34, as he did in his first stint as an Eagle. Fullback Jason Davis asked Mahe to keep his number.

Mahe made the team as an undrafted free agent in 2003 after an outstanding career as a wide receiver at BYU. The team quickly switched him to running back, and he found a niche in the return game, averaging 9.2 yards on six punt return opportunities. He became the teams full time-kickoff returner in 2006, averaging 22.23 yards on 30 returns.

>>Home Page

I don't think anybody would have ever actually been wishing that Reno Mahe was on their football team, but after the opening day disaster on special teams, many Eagles fans were doing just that. Luckily for Mahe, he will get a pass if he does not break any big returns. The only thing he has to really concern himself with, is make sure to catch the football. If Greg Lewis, and J.R. Reed were able to do that, they would have beaten Greenbay. So remember Reno, make sure to CATCH THE FOOTBALL.

The really sad thing about this, is that the Eagles have been unable to find a good solution to the return game in years. ever since Brian Mitchell left, the Eagles have tried, and failed with several players to get a good return game going. Dexter Wynn, James Thrash, Ryan Moats, Reno Mahe, Rod Hood, Jeremy Bloom, Bruce Perry, Lamar Gordon, Greg Lewis, and J.R. Reed have all been in that return game mix at one time since Mitchell left. None of these guys has been able to stick as the return specialist, for one reason or another, and this needs to be addressed next off season.

Mahe is an ok band aid for now, but after this season it is time to get a real returner. Somebody who not only secures the football well, but can do something with the ball after he fields it.

As mad as I am at J.R. Reed's boneheaded decision to run after that ball, I feel bad for him getting cut again. He has now been cut five times in the past year, including twice from the Eagles. He was a decent kick returner in 2004, and had that strange leg injury hopping a fence in the following off season. It is amazing that he has even stepped back on the field, and I hope he gets another chance on another team. You can be sure, it wont be as a punt returner.

Reno 911

2007-09-10T08:13:00.000-04:00

After yesterday's nightmare on special teams, the Eagles are bringing in former Eagles Reno Mahe for a tryout today according to NBC10 Sports Anchor Vai Sikahema.

Mahe may never break a big one, but at least is reliable enough to field the ball without any issues. Vai also says the Eagles will bring in several other candidates for the job.

Expect a roster move to be done within the next few days. Greg Lewis, and J.R. Reed are prime suspects to be released.

UPDATE: Jeremy Bloom is also coming in for a workout.

Injury bug bites Sheppard

2007-09-10T06:53:00.000-04:00

Lito Sheppard's 2007 season began exactly the way his 2006 season started and ended, and that's not a good thing for either the Eagles or their two-time Pro Bowl cornerback.

A three-way collision late in the first half with teammate Sean Considine and Green Bay Packers receiver Ruvell Martin left Sheppard with a sprained medial collateral ligament in his left knee. Sheppard did not return to the Eagles' 16-13 loss, and coach Andy Reid said afterward that the cornerback would undergo an MRI examination today in Philadelphia.

"I took the mass of that collision, especially being on the bottom of it," Sheppard said. "Hopefully, it's nothing too serious. We'll see how it goes tomorrow. For some reason, the first game of the season the last two seasons, it's just been going this way. I'm going to bounce back."

Sheppard missed three games last year after suffering an ankle sprain in the Eagles' season opener against the Houston Texans, and he missed the team's playoff loss in New Orleans because of a dislocated elbow suffered the week before in a playoff game against the New York Giants.

The cornerback also missed the final six games in 2005 with a high ankle sprain.

Sheppard's NFL career started with an injury, too. He missed the first three games of his 2002 rookie season with a quad strain.

"You hate to see that happen to him," safety Brian Dawkins said. "That was one of the things we talked about as we were in the training room together in the preseason. We have to keep [Sheppard] healthy for the season."

With Sheppard out in the second half, William James became the starting cornerback opposite Sheldon Brown and Joselio Hanson moved into the nickel role. Hanson also left late in the game after suffering a mild concussion on a running play by Green Bay's Brandon Jackson.

>>PhiladelphiaInquirer