Philadelphia Eagles Preview

[PennSkinsFan]

http://ww.hailredskins.com/Eagles.htm (http://www.hailredskins.com/Eagles.htm)

Thanks to JoeDaSchmoe for a great article

[JoeDaSchmoe]

It's actually here....

http://www.hailredskins.com/Eagles.htm

Three w's, PSF. ;)

[colkurtz]

The Eagles are not to be underestimated. McKnabb has slimmed down and is ready to show TO and the media that he still has game. The team had some really significant injuries and trials last season but will be coming back for revenge this year.

However, you said it right - who does Donovan throw to? Where is the real rushing attack? All three of the other NFC opponents have good to great defenses and will be sending McKnabb scrambling for his life this season.

The Eagles were a very good team from 2000-2004. They have an excellent QB. However, they faced a very weak NFC East during those years. Now the NFC East is very much improved and they have slide a little.

Very good analysis.

[BurgundyNGold]

I like the analysis. Very well written and entertaining too. The Iggles are not to be taken lightly. It's only that the other teams aren't either.

[colkurtz]

I like the analysis. Very well written and entertaining too. The Iggles are not to be taken lightly. It's only that the other teams aren't either.

I think the Beagles problem is that they rely too much on McKnabb for their offense. Now he has too few targets to look at.

[Ibleedburgundy]

LOL when the word "skinniness" takes off, I will always credit you JoeDaSchmoe. :lol1:

[HAWGZHEAD]

LOL when the word "skinniness" takes off, I will always credit you JoeDaSchmoe. :lol1:LMAO, what a great line!

with Todd Pinkston on the other side providing some much-needed… skinniness.


CLASSIC!

[sableholic]

I like the analysis. Very well written and entertaining too. The Iggles are not to be taken lightly. It's only that the other teams aren't either.
agreed, they definately can't be taken lightly. One bad year doesn't convince me they are completely done.

[bgforever]

I think the Beagles problem is that they rely too much on McKnabb for their offense. Now he has too few targets to look at.


the Eagles place a "premium" on tolerable castoffs from other teams. They have a warchest of funds devoted to TC releases and big name evaluations, like Dallas, just in case. The patchwork is in effect for both teams, and band aids are the fashion of this season for them.

How else do you get veteran depth or least a raised production fit, in positions not there already, just before the end of preseason?

Thanks for the article, its SchmoeN! :)

[openallnight]

Nice write up JDS :)
Sounds like coach Gibbs has greatly influenced your thinking.
Although, I do agree that the Eagles will be tough this season.
It's gonna be a dogfight for sure in the East this season.

[smoak]

Great writeup JDS!

I'm surprised more Redskins fans don't respect Reggie Brown as a prospect considering in two games against us he scored three TDs and averaged 6 catches and 86 yards. Not too shabby considering he is a "nobody". Granted I don't consider Todd Pinston a threat, but I really think Gaffney could step in and do well. He didn't produce much with the Texans, but lets be real... who did on offense? the strength of the Eaglees offense has always been spreading the ball around and hitting on some big plays. Enter Brian Westbrook. He is not a great back, but he is a constant homerun threat when healthy.

On defense, Howard is a huge addition if he is healthy. If he and Kearse are healthy, they are potentially double digit sack tandems like Osi and gap tooth last year. The difference between the two lines is that the Eagles can rotate some impressive (on paper) DTs into the mix. Thankfully the Eagles and Bunkley are making no progress in their contract talks.

Overall, I think they have the divisions best QB and potential MVP, and improved offensive line, and WRs that are better than their previos playoff runs. It would be foolish to write them off in the East especially considerign their 4th place schedule will allow them to play the Niners and another "gimme game" (forget who). Nobody is going to hand Washington the NFC East title... but especially not the Iggles.

[BandWagon]

Nice job. I like to think there's the "four and no more" mojo going with them. It seems that history has shown the most chances a team gets is four before they slip into obscurity.

[The Skinsinator]

Great preview Joe. Right on about everything with that team. If they get a running game they can do damage. What concerns me is their light schedule initially. I think they have a very good chance to get off to an excellent start and gain alot of confidence. I still can't fathom Eli beating Donovan regarding inter-division play.

[Scotty Moyer]

The Eagles suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck.
And I'm confident enough to shoot off and say.... When they play the Redskins this season they will get thier wings ripped off once and for all
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:eaglesuk:

[gibbsisgod]

The Eagles suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck.
And I'm confident enough to shoot off and say.... When they play the Redskins this season they will get thier wings ripped off once and for all
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:eaglesuk:



Both games last year were very close. If dock doesn't fall on cooley's fumble the outcome could be different and the D had to take care of the last game. (Mcnabb didn't even play in the last one too)

[bgforever]

Both games last year were very close. If dock doesn't fall on cooley's fumble the outcome could be different and the D had to take care of the last game. (Mcnabb didn't even play in the last one too)

Interesting point into their confidence from that second loss. Not that they didn't gain respect for the NEW Redskins team, but they also KNEW what and who was missing. I have not writtten them off, as they will storm so many teams taking them for granted. We must deal with them with the same vigor and importance as before, like the whole season. It will be hard fought again, I am sure of it.

[Carmelo]

LOL when the word "skinniness" takes off, I will always credit you JoeDaSchmoe. :lol1:
That was a great read Joe. As always, very entertaining. I laughed out loud several times.

I think the media's man crush on T.O. is justified. He gives them sooo much to talk about. What other player blindly makes a bigger fool of himself?

[Scotty Moyer]

Both games last year were very close. If dock doesn't fall on cooley's fumble the outcome could be different and the D had to take care of the last game. (Mcnabb didn't even play in the last one too)

Yes... And we had less of an offence last year. Don't get me wrong I will give another team respect were it is due.(even the eagles).
1.McNABB is over rated but is a good QB at times.
2.Westbrook is a good running back but not as good as Portis and not as tough as the Rock or Betts or Nemo.
3. The point is I hate the Eagles.:devil2:

[colkurtz]

LOL when the word "skinniness" takes off, I will always credit you JoeDaSchmoe. :lol1:

With both Sean Taylor and Arch hawking him, Pinkston will not just have 'alligator arms' - they'll be more like T Rex upper appendages.

Pinkstons last coherent thought playing the Redskins: "I hear footsteps".........

[Skins-R-Us]

http://www.pinkphloyd.com/images/Hail Redskins - Eagles.jpg

[EagleAye]

The Eagles suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck suck.
And I'm confident enough to shoot off and say.... When they play the Redskins this season they will get thier wings ripped off once and for all
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:eaglesuk:
Oh thank you for that intellectually stimulating contribution to this discussion. Made my day.......thanx again!:lol1:

[colkurtz]

Oh thank you for that intellectually stimulating contribution to this discussion. Made my day.......thanx again!:lol1:

Jimmy Johnson will have the defense playing well. Andy Reid is a good coach. Eagles have the best kicking game in the NFC Beast. McKnabb is also the best QB in this division - slimmed down and ready to prove himself this season.

However, aren't you worried about your WR group? Besides Donovan, who really scares the Defensive Coordinator on this team?

The Eagles ruled this division for four years when the other teams sucked; now the tide has come back in and they have not one easy game in the NFC East.

[Ibleedburgundy]

Jimmy Johnson will have the defense playing well. Andy Reid is a good coach. Eagles have the best kicking game in the NFC Beast. McKnabb is also the best QB in this division - slimmed down and ready to prove himself this season.

However, aren't you worried about your WR group? Besides Donovan, who really scares the Defensive Coordinator on this team?

The Eagles ruled this division for four years when the other teams sucked; now the tide has come back in and they have not one easy game in the NFC East.

You don't think Westbrook is a great receiver? :Peace:

[EagleAye]

Jimmy Johnson will have the defense playing well. Andy Reid is a good coach. Eagles have the best kicking game in the NFC Beast. McKnabb is also the best QB in this division - slimmed down and ready to prove himself this season.

However, aren't you worried about your WR group? Besides Donovan, who really scares the Defensive Coordinator on this team?

The Eagles ruled this division for four years when the other teams sucked; now the tide has come back in and they have not one easy game in the NFC East.
The Philly fans are fanatics when it comes to WR's. Reid has caused it!

Considering the amount of passing the Eagles do, you would think they would have a first class experienced WR core. Oh yeah there's potential in some of these young receivers but the fans must suffer till the kids get experience. I wish they would, at least, get one highly capable receiver then I could live with the babysitting of the youngins'. I was satisfied the first year of the evil one's (TO) reign.

Reggie Brown was getting there but now there's an injury. Oh, well, I should be used to this stuff by now.

[colkurtz]

The Philly fans are fanatics when it comes to WR's. Reid has caused it!

Considering the amount of passing the Eagles do, you would think they would have a first class experienced WR core. Oh yeah there's potential in some of these young receivers but the fans must suffer till the kids get experience. I wish they would, at least, get one highly capable receiver then I could live with the babysitting of the youngins'. I was satisfied the first year of the evil one's (TO) reign.

Reggie Brown was getting there but now there's an injury. Oh, well, I should be used to this stuff by now.

"Running, we don't need no stinkin' running!"

I was surprised that the Eagles didn't try to hire a #1 FA WR. Perhaps the shock of the TO experience kept the team from wanting to test those waters again, but it seems an big area of need for them. Westbrooke and McKnabb are good, but (as the Redskins found out last season), if you have limited offensive weapons - teams will really key on those players and shut down the offense.

Also, who did the Eagles hire to replace the Offensive Coordinator? Is Reid going to do that now?

[FanFromArizona]

EA,

I admire your ability to stand in the heat and defend your loyalty to the Iggles. Through thick and thin, that is what being a fan means: being fanatical about it.

It's gonna be hard to support the Eagles this year. As you recognized, you will need to develop the youngsters. I actually thought your FO would have tried to do more in Free Agency for your offense. I think it's what will kick your team in the rear this year.

Your defense unfortunately I think will be on the wrongside of the TOP [time of possession] game and will break down later in the game physically. The TOP for the offense will dictate how well your D will be this year. From a fantasy football perspective, I have your D under consideration as one of my fantasy picks [of course I have the Redskins D under consideration too!] in the event I don't have the chance to select my first choice for D.

[FanFromArizona]

"Running, we don't need no stinkin' running!"

I was surprised that the Eagles didn't try to hire a #1 FA WR. Perhaps the shock of the TO experience kept the team from wanting to test those waters again, but it seems an big area of need for them. Westbrooke and McKnabb are good, but (as the Redskins found out last season), if you have limited offensive weapons - teams will really key on those players and shut down the offense.

Also, who did the Eagles hire to replace the Offensive Coordinator? Is Reid going to do that now?


some Marty Mornwheiler dude, they promoted him from within the team, I forget the dude's last name, he was the line coach last year

[SkinsGal]

some Marty Mornwheiler dude, they promoted him from within the team, I forget the dude's last name, he was the line coach last year

Marty Mornhinweg. Former 49ers Offensive Coordinator (in the late 90s) and former Lions head coach.

[FanFromArizona]

Reading up on Bunkley, it does not sound like Reid is happy with the inability to sign him. This dude needs to get on the field and get the valuable experience under his belt.

This contract impasse can't be anything but bad for the rook.

[EagleAye]

"Running, we don't need no stinkin' running!"

I was surprised that the Eagles didn't try to hire a #1 FA WR. Perhaps the shock of the TO experience kept the team from wanting to test those waters again, but it seems an big area of need for them. Westbrooke and McKnabb are good, but (as the Redskins found out last season), if you have limited offensive weapons - teams will really key on those players and shut down the offense.

Also, who did the Eagles hire to replace the Offensive Coordinator? Is Reid going to do that now?
Ah but they did and I'm glad it didn't work out since he looks like he'll miss, as of now, some 2006 games. His name is Jovan Walker and the Eagles offered a 2nd and a 4th for him. The picks were higher than what the Broncos offered but GB went with the Broncos to get him out of the NFC. Walker would have been a tailor fit for the Eagles WCO as opposed to others available.

I don't care much for Mornhinweg and never did. Although they say he commits to the run more than Brad, I will still miss Brad this year. Reid needs to lighten up on that passing and surprise some folks with a running attack. However, Reid was a QB coach with GB and still favors the air attack. Time will tell I suppose.

Note from TC> They have been in Training Camp for a week now and a little over 50% of the plays have been on the ground. Also, I don't think the Skins will overlook Reggie Brown this year. He surprised the Redskins with 2 TD's and 70 yards in last years meeting. The big surprise this year is that big strong kid (6'3" 220#) from Arizona and his name is Hank Baskett and was an undrafted trade from the Vikings. We gave Brad Billy McMullin. Brad needed an experienced (:lol1: ) WR for his version of the WCO.

[CarMike]

EagleAye, I wish all Eagle fans were more like you. I, personally, enjoy your presence here at hR...

[FanFromArizona]

Note from TC> They have been in Training Camp for a week now and a little over 50% of the plays have been on the ground. Also, I don't think the Skins will overlook Reggie Brown this year. He surprised the Redskins with 2 TD's and 70 yards in last years meeting. The big surprise this year is that big strong kid (6'3" 220#) from Arizona and his name is Hank Baskett and was an undrafted trade from the Vikings. We gave Brad Billy McMullin. Brad needed an experienced WR for his version of the WCO.


Not to pick on ya EA, but to twist your first sentence around, "it sounds like 50% of the players have been grounded." :lol1:
If you have any chance this year, you will need all these receivers below to have a healthy year, because we all know you are STILL a passing-based and aggressive defense type of team. Your running game will still be the short-pass game and your QB.


There might not be as much commotion over Brown if his position mates were not injured as well. Wide receiver Todd Pinkston is recovering from an inflamed Achilles tendon in his left foot. Rookies Jason Avant (hyperextended knee) and Jeremy Bloom (hamstring) remain on the Physically Unable to Perform list.

Speaking on injuries, RB did play real well last year, but I think with a year to recover, Shawn Springs won't get burned again. I don't think SS was at 100% when he was covering RB. It'll be a good matchup to watch this year.

[BurgundyNGold]

EagleAye, I wish all Eagle fans were more like you. I, personally, enjoy your presence here at hR...
I second that. EagleAye is pretty knowledgeable and I like having him around. PhillyPhil too, although we haven't seen him in a while.

Stop by anytime, EagleAye!

[FanFromArizona]

EagleAye, I wish all Eagle fans were more like you. I, personally, enjoy your presence here at hR...

An objective,unbiased, and un-homerlike orator is always enjoyed.
Too bad he has not converted over from the Dark Side to the truth :)

[BurgundyNGold]

An objective,unbiased, and un-homerlike orator is always enjoyed.
Too bad he has not converted over from the Dark Side to the truth :)
Perhaps someday, FFA. Someday.



:D

[colkurtz]

Ah but they did and I'm glad it didn't work out since he looks like he'll miss, as of now, some 2006 games. His name is Jovan Walker and the Eagles offered a 2nd and a 4th for him. The picks were higher than what the Broncos offered but GB went with the Broncos to get him out of the NFC. Walker would have been a tailor fit for the Eagles WCO as opposed to others available.

I don't care much for Mornhinweg and never did. Although they say he commits to the run more than Brad, I will still miss Brad this year. Reid needs to lighten up on that passing and surprise some folks with a running attack. However, Reid was a QB coach with GB and still favors the air attack. Time will tell I suppose.

Note from TC> They have been in Training Camp for a week now and a little over 50% of the plays have been on the ground. Also, I don't think the Skins will overlook Reggie Brown this year. He surprised the Redskins with 2 TD's and 70 yards in last years meeting. The big surprise this year is that big strong kid (6'3" 220#) from Arizona and his name is Hank Baskett and was an undrafted trade from the Vikings. We gave Brad Billy McMullin. Brad needed an experienced (:lol1: ) WR for his version of the WCO.

I actually agree on the running for the Eagles, that's been all the talk this year. They will run more. Joe Gibbs just had a press conference and specifically mentioned the Eagles as a team he was worried about.

[BurgundyNGold]

I actually agree on the running for the Eagles, that's been all the talk this year. They will run more. Joe Gibbs just had a press conference and specifically mentioned the Eagles as a team he was worried about.
The question is whether they have the personnel to do it. You don't just wake up one day and say "I think we're going to run the ball 50% of the time this year" and think it's going to work if you don't have those horses in the stable.

[FanFromArizona]

The question is whether they have the personnel to do it. You don't just wake up one day and say "I think we're going to run the ball 50% of the time this year" and think it's going to work if you don't have those horses in the stable.


It seems if they are going to run it this year, the perfect candidate would seem to be that Moats dude. They may try a lightning and thunder approach with Mahe [lightning] and Moats [thunder], but with Moats coming back from
injury, his effectiveness might be limited. Correll Burckhalter trying to making a resurgence? Doubtful at best.

Westbrook is their best offensive weapon in the backfield, but he is really like a small power-receiver and not meant to endure the hits on the line over and over.

[BurgundyNGold]

It seems if they are going to run it this year, the perfect candidate would seem to be that Moats dude. They may try a lightning and thunder approach with Mahe [lightning] and Moats [thunder], but with Moats coming back from
injury, his effectiveness might be limited. Correll Burckhalter trying to making a resurgence? Doubtful at best.

Westbrook is their best offensive weapon in the backfield, but he is really like a small power-receiver and not meant to endure the hits on the line over and over.
I don't think that Moats is big enough to be thunder. In fact, Buckhalter is the closest thing to thunder that they have and I'm not sure even he qualifies. They might run more than last season, but if they were intending to run that much more then they would've gotten someone more suited to carry the rock 20-25 times a game. Westbrook, Moats and Perry are likely too small to do that for long. Unless, they plan to rotate the three in a committee approach. That might work. Except, not on 4th and 1.

[colkurtz]

The question is whether they have the personnel to do it. You don't just wake up one day and say "I think we're going to run the ball 50% of the time this year" and think it's going to work if you don't have those horses in the stable.

I agree. I think that the OL of the Eagles is over-rated. McKnabb has made the line look better than it is because he can scramble and pass on the move.

The defense and ST of the Beagles are their best areas and what they rely on. Although Reid talks about running more, when it doesn't work - he'll go back to Donovan and the pass attack.

[EagleAye]

I agree. I think that the OL of the Eagles is over-rated. McKnabb has made the line look better than it is because he can scramble and pass on the move.

The defense and ST of the Beagles are their best areas and what they rely on. Although Reid talks about running more, when it doesn't work - he'll go back to Donovan and the pass attack.
Get ready for a surprise. The OL is without a doubt, the largest and quickest line in the NFC-E, if not the conference. These guys are monsters and very talented. Last year we were devastated by injuries on the OL. This year, that line is very very deep. McNabb wasn't too mobile last year as I remember. He had that chest injury and hernia. This week he's been very quick. He scored a 30 yd TD on the first team defense a couple days ago and has been movin' those happy feet at will. Both Howard and Trotter said he's hard to bring down.

BTW......thanx for the nice words regarding my presence on this board. I do enjoy these chats. I don't feel like an outsider here. Do I dare say....I get a warm and fuzzy feeling here?:)

[EagleAye]

I don't think that Moats is big enough to be thunder. In fact, Buckhalter is the closest thing to thunder that they have and I'm not sure even he qualifies. They might run more than last season, but if they were intending to run that much more then they would've gotten someone more suited to carry the rock 20-25 times a game. Westbrook, Moats and Perry are likely too small to do that for long. Unless, they plan to rotate the three in a committee approach. That might work. Except, not on 4th and 1.
Make that four. Ya forgot McNabb...........:)

[skinfan43]

Make that four. Ya forgot McNabb...........:)
Hello EagleAye, hope you're well - McNabb SAYS he's going to be more mobile this year...we'll see, his body is much older than his 30 years, much like Eric Lindros when he was here in Philly as Philadelphia Flyer. I'm unconcerned about 30-year-old-spent-the-last-two-years-as-a-pocket-passer-McNabb running with the ball anymore...sure a scramble here or there, but Brunell (and even moreso Campbell when he's ready to play) can do that too. Plus, our backers and safties are way too fast and vicious to worry about him getting very far;)

[EagleAye]

Hello EagleAye, hope you're well - McNabb SAYS he's going to be more mobile this year...we'll see, his body is much older than his 30 years, much like Eric Lindros when he was here in Philly as Philadelphia Flyer. I'm unconcerned about 30-year-old-spent-the-last-two-years-as-a-pocket-passer-McNabb running with the ball anymore...sure a scramble here or there, but Brunell (and even moreso Campbell when he's ready to play) can do that too. Plus, our backers and safties are way too fast and vicious to worry about him getting very far;)
Ok.......we'll see but comparing Brunell to McNabb's running is a stretch to say the least. There are reasons for the last two years when it comes to him being a pocket passer.

[skinfan43]

Ok.......we'll see but comparing Brunell to McNabb's running is a stretch to say the least. There are reasons for the last two years when it comes to him being a pocket passer.
Definitely NOT comparing Brunell's scrambling to Donovan's, McNabb is six years younger - it's just that anymore they both only scramble when need be, not by intent.

And reasons won't win the Eagles a Lombardi trophy, either. There were reasons why we didn't beat Seattle last year to go to the Super Bowl, so we actually addressed those reasons - picked up two playmaking receivers (Randle El and Brandon Lloyd) to compliment WR Santana Moss and our TE Chris Cooley, beefed up the secondary with Archuleta and Kenny Wright, added a speed-rushing DE who hasn't even reached his prime yet, and one of the best blocking TE's in the game, Christian Fauria from the Patriots. Oh, and Gibbs was humble and aggressive enough to lure Al Saunders from the Chiefs to be our Offensive Coordinator...and all he's done is produce the offense for the Super Bowl Champion Rams in '99 and the #1 offense in the league in Kansas City most recently.
The Eagles need to address the reasons they have for falling short all the time, and IMO, it starts with your head coach's stubborn pass-first mentality. He's won quite a few games, but to win it all, you must have a balanced offensive attack to go with a stellar defense. Saunders utilized Marshall Faulk with the Rams to League MVP status, and you know what he's done in the past 5 years with Priest Holmes, and now Larry Johnson. Skins fans are excited to see what he can do with a Clinton Portis, Mark Brunell (who is younger than Trent Green, BTW), the receiving foursome of Moss, Randle El, Lloyd, and Patten, stud TE Cooley, and a great O-Line on the verge of dominant - not to even mention our killer D.
Wow, I'm pretty pumped up now EA, thanks for gettin' me going!;)

[smoak]

Get ready for a surprise. The OL is without a doubt, the largest and quickest line in the NFC-E, if not the conference. These guys are monsters and very talented. Last year we were devastated by injuries on the OL. This year, that line is very very deep. McNabb wasn't too mobile last year as I remember. He had that chest injury and hernia. This week he's been very quick. He scored a 30 yd TD on the first team defense a couple days ago and has been movin' those happy feet at will. Both Howard and Trotter said he's hard to bring down.

BTW......thanx for the nice words regarding my presence on this board. I do enjoy these chats. I don't feel like an outsider here. Do I dare say....I get a warm and fuzzy feeling here?:)

I'll echo the sentiment for appreciateing your contribution here. Too bad most Eagle fans are not more like you.

That said, I do have to disagree a little with your assessment of the Eagles O-line. I'd agree you have a deep line with better talent on the pine than the Skins, but you have many more question marks in the starting 5. Our biggest question mark is keeping the dirtbags healthy and on the field. If we do that, I think we have the elite line in the NFC-E and maybe all the NFC. Seattle lost Hutchinson so I want to see hoe well his replacement does.

This articles discusses it a little:

http://www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/sports/15161853.htm

[shally]

http://ww.hailredskins.com/Eagles.htm (http://www.hailredskins.com/Eagles.htm)

Thanks to JoeDaSchmoe for a great article

a great article.. but, no offense, why is this on the cherokee board and not the navaho one ??

[skinfan43]

a great article.. but, no offense, why is this on the cherokee board and not the navaho one ??
Good call shally...looks like a bit of carte-blanche-giving going on...J/K!:lol1:

[smoak]

a great article.. but, no offense, why is this on the cherokee board and not the navaho one ??

Psst. I never question the owners. :)

Honestly, I think the NFC East Previews are considered "one time" exceptions.

[EagleAye]

I'll echo the sentiment for appreciateing your contribution here. Too bad most Eagle fans are not more like you.

That said, I do have to disagree a little with your assessment of the Eagles O-line. I'd agree you have a deep line with better talent on the pine than the Skins, but you have many more question marks in the starting 5. Our biggest question mark is keeping the dirtbags healthy and on the field. If we do that, I think we have the elite line in the NFC-E and maybe all the NFC. Seattle lost Hutchinson so I want to see hoe well his replacement does.

This articles discusses it a little:

http://www.philly.com/mld/dailynews/sports/15161853.htm
Fair enough. We'll see how it all plays out during the season. If they stay fairly healthy, I think the OL/DL have a very good chance to surprise some folks. The same goes for the young receivers. The RBs are still a question mark and I believe it's the weakest part of the team.

[skinfan43]

Fair enough. We'll see how it all plays out during the season. If they stay fairly healthy, I think the OL/DL have a very good chance to surprise some folks. The same goes for the young receivers. The RBs are still a question mark and I believe it's the weakest part of the team.
It just seems to me EA, that with a stubborn coach like Reid and his pass-first philosophy, and with how you guys only got to the SB when you got a top-flite receiver, picking up Javon Walker would have shown me, you, your fanbase, heck the DIVISION - that you guys mean business again!
Lewis - showed he's crap all last year, supposed to be lightning in a bottle but couldn't get separation.
Pinkston - injury prone and soft in general, and may have to call it quits now that BOTH achillies are bum, being that he is a speed-only receiver.
Baskett - hell, if this rookie even gets on the field he'll be an upgrade over McMullen,lol
Avant - Already hurt, albeit minor, but only a possession-type rookie with sub-par speed.
Bloom - hasn't even played college ball in years, just a return guy, maybe.
Gaffney - ok slot receiver from a bad team.
McCants - a muscular painter.
Brown - he's good, but not top-flite.

Looks painfully thin to me, ESPECIALLY with a weak running game.

But isn't it great that we ALL get to be so optimistic at this time of the year, because you never know until the real games begin...

[EagleAye]

It just seems to me EA, that with a stubborn coach like Reid and his pass-first philosophy, and with how you guys only got to the SB when you got a top-flite receiver, picking up Javon Walker would have shown me, you, your fanbase, heck the DIVISION - that you guys mean business again!
Lewis - showed he's crap all last year, supposed to be lightning in a bottle but couldn't get separation.
Pinkston - injury prone and soft in general, and may have to call it quits now that BOTH achillies are bum, being that he is a speed-only receiver.
Baskett - hell, if this rookie even gets on the field he'll be an upgrade over McMullen,lol
Avant - Already hurt, albeit minor, but only a possession-type rookie with sub-par speed.
Bloom - hasn't even played college ball in years, just a return guy, maybe.
Gaffney - ok slot receiver from a bad team.
McCants - a muscular painter.
Brown - he's good, but not top-flite.

Looks painfully thin to me, ESPECIALLY with a weak running game.

But isn't it great that we ALL get to be so optimistic at this time of the year, because you never know until the real games begin...
Yep, we get to start from zero and all teams are equal. You painted a very sad pic of the receivers and running backs but are you sure? That one about Brown was a good one. How do you know he's not top-flite. He was a rookie last year and yet he had 4 TDs and 571 yds with very poor QB support. Give the kid a break. I think he'll be a 1000 yd receiver this year. Also, don't count the RBs out yet. Hopefully we get to see Buckhalter (6' - 217#) and Tapeh (6'1" - 243#) in action this year. I also think Moats will surprise alot of folks. Ah, this season should be fun indeed!!

Avant and Baskett will be on the field this year. You can bet on it. Baskett has been the shinning star this TC. Avant was hurt (pulled hammy) but is out there in the slot catchin' everything. By the way, since when do you need blazing speed as a slot receiver? Avant's 40 time (without the cast on his arm) is equaled to TO's (the evil one) rookie time. Whats the big deal? Avant was considered a first round pick up till he ran that 4.5 40 in the combine. For pete's sake, he was wearing a case on his arm. The arms balance the runner and if one is heavier than the other it WILL affect the performance. That seems logical to me and some folks seem to discount it, for some reason. I understand his time is down to 4.35 now but there is no pressing need for speed in his position. He is a grade a catchin' machine with very sure hands. You get the rock near him and he will catch it. Thats what you want in the slot.

Look at the Hall of Fame game this Sunday and then judge!

NOTE: The Eagles offered more than the Bronco's (higher picks) for Javon Walker but GB did'nt want him in the NFC. The Eagles also worked out a deal with Walker and all it took was GB's ok. Thats what happened so I can't blame them for not getting him. They tried and Walker surely was not worth a 1st round pick.

[akhhorus]

Yep, we get to start from zero and all teams are equal. You painted a very sad pic of the receivers and running backs but are you sure? That one about Brown was a good one. How do you know he's not top-flite. He was a rookie last year and yet he had 4 TDs and 571 yds with very poor QB support. Give the kid a break. I think he'll be a 1000 yd receiver this year. Also, don't count the RBs out yet. Hopefully we get to see Buckhalter (6' - 217#) and Tapeh (6'1" - 243#) in action this year. I also think Moats will surprise alot of folks. Ah, this season should be fun indeed!!

Avant and Baskett will be on the field this year. You can bet on it. Baskett has been the shinning star this TC. Avant was hurt (pulled hammy) but is out there in the slot catchin' everything. By the way, since when do you need blazing speed as a slot receiver? Avant's 40 time (without the cast on his arm) is equaled to TO's (the evil one) rookie time. Whats the big deal? Avant was considered a first round pick up till he ran that 4.5 40 in the combine. For pete's sake, he was wearing a case on his arm. The arms balance the runner and if one is heavier than the other it WILL affect the performance. That seems logical to me and some folks seem to discount it, for some reason. I understand his time is down to 4.35 now but there is no pressing need for speed in his position. He is a grade a catchin' machine with very sure hands. You get the rock near him and he will catch it. Thats what you want in the slot.

Look at the Hall of Fame game this Sunday and then judge!

NOTE: The Eagles offered more than the Bronco's (higher picks) for Javon Walker but GB did'nt want him in the NFC. The Eagles also worked out a deal with Walker and all it took was GB's ok. Thats what happened so I can't blame them for not getting him. They tried and Walker surely was not worth a 1st round pick.

You can't play with 20 people on the field at one time there EagleAye. Every one of your sleepers there will mean one of these guys: Westbrook, Moats, Brown, Gaffney, Smith etc etc...will be off of it. And if they recieve very limited playing time, they'll be as good as Billy McMullen was. If the Eagles can actually run the ball, they have a better chance at a good season. I don't see how they can in the NFC East if they play a 65-35 pass/run split on offense. Their defense will be dead by the middle of the 3rd quarter in every game if they do that.

[colkurtz]

I like Buckhalter as a RB, but he has never stayed healthy long enough to really see if he has the juice....

I also wonder if Reid is really that commited to the run. As time has gone on as a Philly coach his percentage of run plays seems to have decreased. Since he did better every year [until 2005] I see why he used this strategy. However, as i've said - I think part of the Eagles success in 2000-2004 was that the other teams in the NFC East were so freakin' awful.

Now he's got to develop the run. Can he do it?

[GibbsFan]

I see the Iggles as the darkhorse in this race. A lot of people want to write them off, but their D and ST are very good. This will be enough to keep them in the thick of it as long as McNabb stays healthy. There Wr's are not great but Westbrook is like one, and Brown has been a No.1 type WR against us.

They will give Cowturds and Gints fits and likely lay a couple of losses on them. IMO they outlast Dallass for at least 3rd in the division, and be knocking on the wildcard door.

[smoak]

I think the Eagles are going to be solid. Their early schedule is lighter that angel food cake. The Redskins need to beat the Eagles twice (no easy task) b/c I think they'll have 8-10 wins. I think the Eagles have more WR now than when they first went to the playoffs... But I agree with EA in that the RB position is actually THINNER and a real concern.

[skinfan43]

Yep, we get to start from zero and all teams are equal. You painted a very sad pic of the receivers and running backs but are you sure? That one about Brown was a good one. How do you know he's not top-flite. He was a rookie last year and yet he had 4 TDs and 571 yds with very poor QB support. Give the kid a break. I think he'll be a 1000 yd receiver this year. Also, don't count the RBs out yet. Hopefully we get to see Buckhalter (6' - 217#) and Tapeh (6'1" - 243#) in action this year. I also think Moats will surprise alot of folks. Ah, this season should be fun indeed!!

Avant and Baskett will be on the field this year. You can bet on it. Baskett has been the shinning star this TC. Avant was hurt (pulled hammy) but is out there in the slot catchin' everything. By the way, since when do you need blazing speed as a slot receiver? Avant's 40 time (without the cast on his arm) is equaled to TO's (the evil one) rookie time. Whats the big deal? Avant was considered a first round pick up till he ran that 4.5 40 in the combine. For pete's sake, he was wearing a case on his arm. The arms balance the runner and if one is heavier than the other it WILL affect the performance. That seems logical to me and some folks seem to discount it, for some reason. I understand his time is down to 4.35 now but there is no pressing need for speed in his position. He is a grade a catchin' machine with very sure hands. You get the rock near him and he will catch it. Thats what you want in the slot.

Look at the Hall of Fame game this Sunday and then judge!

NOTE: The Eagles offered more than the Bronco's (higher picks) for Javon Walker but GB did'nt want him in the NFC. The Eagles also worked out a deal with Walker and all it took was GB's ok. Thats what happened so I can't blame them for not getting him. They tried and Walker surely was not worth a 1st round pick.
I knew you'd be pretty riled up after my last post, EA, you are as much a fan of the Birds as I am of the Skins;)
There's just SO much "we'll see" with your team this year, reminds me of my Skins before last season actually - it was always a whole lot more "we'll see" than "we have".
"We'll see":
-if McNabb can stay healthy, regain Pro-Bowl form without a bona-fide #1 receiver, and prove he's not a Choke McCants...er...I mean Artist.
-if your running backs are utilized properly within a real running game by Reid, and if their bodies continue to be as soft as Charmin bath tissue.
-if last year was an analomy for your defense...or if it is just a harsh reality.

...and these are just a few of the Birds' "we'll see's" that are pretty huge deals, IMO.

Sucks about Walker, but was GB really afraid? I can't see them not getting everything they could for him...but it could be true I guess.

[EagleAye]

I knew you'd be pretty riled up after my last post, EA, you are as much a fan of the Birds as I am of the Skins;)
There's just SO much "we'll see" with your team this year, reminds me of my Skins before last season actually - it was always a whole lot more "we'll see" than "we have".
"We'll see":
-if McNabb can stay healthy, regain Pro-Bowl form without a bona-fide #1 receiver, and prove he's not a Choke McCants...er...I mean Artist.
-if your running backs are utilized properly within a real running game by Reid, and if their bodies continue to be as soft as Charmin bath tissue.
-if last year was an analomy for your defense...or if it is just a harsh reality.

...and these are just a few of the Birds' "we'll see's" that are pretty huge deals, IMO.

Sucks about Walker, but was GB really afraid? I can't see them not getting everything they could for him...but it could be true I guess.
Yes it is true. It seems we play GB every year (and beat them) and they didn't want to add fuel to the fire.

And, yes, we'll see and I know we'll surprise this year.............:)

[FanFromArizona]

Well, it's going to be interesting to watch them play in this weekend's Hall of Fame game. I wonder how the "o" will do, but even then, it won't be saying much [that they did well in first preseason game against the hapless Oakland D].