xan

Time to make the call.

The Eagles played man-up press on the WRs and zone run blitzed Tony Romo to disrupt the Dallas pass timing. Romo forced many passes either on the run or before the routes were free, resulting in 23 incompletions and 3 INTs. They did the same against the Giants, forcing long downs by run blitzing and keeping the Giants running game in check (2 runs accounted for 56 of the 111 total rush yards)

On offense, McNabb's cast of JC transfers run precise short routes, but their speed is suspect. Westbrook continues to account for 40% of the offense, getting around 28 touches in rushing and passing. Westbrook is often the forgotten player (by the defense) in the passing game, which is why he's been the Eagle's leading pass target. McNabb has no compunction about taking off, and appears that he will be team's 2nd leading rusher by the end of the season; however, McNabb is not as mobile as in years' past. McNabb seems to pick on the opponents' weakness, either a corner, or overpursuit by LBs, or lack of toughness of the front 4. One interesting wrinkle that worked against the Giants and the Boys was the delayed draw out of the shotgun. It appears it is an option play, pass over the run blitz, draw when the blitz is faked or comes from the edge. Neither Dallas, New York, or Seattle really had a handle on defending this play. One key stat is that the Eagles have dominated TOP against their last few opponents and play inspired smart football to the final whistle. They've been "in" all but one game to the end and have 4 losses by 4 points or less and only one double-digit loss. One could argue that the Eagles are the unluckiest team this year, and could be 11-3 if a few calls went their way.

These guys beat the Vikes on the road, beat the Cowboys on the road and Washington on the road plus just missed beating the Pats in the Shaver. There's no quit for this well coached and well prepared team. And they've got an eye on retribution for the last two close losses.

Philly 17
NO 14

Brees gets sacked 5 times fumbles twice both leading to tds.
Stecker gets 50 yards and a td
Colston catches 6 for 65 yards and a td, but late in the game.
JD gets scorched for a long td
Westbrook gets loose and runs a draw for a score.
Philly dominates the line of scrimmage, keeping the Saints offense unable to gain rhythm and the defense from gaining field position dominance.
Saints start every drive inside their 25, many inside their 15.
McNabb runs around a lot, making the Saints D very tired and converts 5 third and longs to frustrate the Saints.

While it is hell to have the Eagles as my dominant regional game, this week is sweet for all that torture. I won't have to have papz and jnorwood and QBREES feed me. Go Saints!

Calvin: "I wish I was a Tiger."
Hobbes: "Common lament."