NFL: Philadelphia Eagles Fan Blog

2008-11-26T13:35:00.001-05:00

Hey, Eagles fans, if you're lucky and awesome enough to have tickets to the Thanksgiving Day game, make sure you wear your black Eagles gear!

2008-10-30T09:54:00.000-04:00

Election day is next Tuesday, November 4th. Get out and vote!

2008-10-16T15:35:00.001-04:00

It's election season! While you probably can't vote for POTUS yet, your voice can still be heard! Vote for Parker!

Everybody Sucks

2008-05-08T15:35:00.001-04:00

This whole police brutality story makes my blood boil. There seem to be no good guys. Here's the scoop in case you've been hanging out under a rock: http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2008/05/08/carroll.police.beating.cnn?iref=videosearch

You see the video, and it's obvious the cops were going way overboard. But the criminals certainly deserved an ass kicking by somebody. And the family suing just makes them look bad, too. What is wrong with everyone?

Criminals, don't be such a**holes. Cops, just do your job without losing it. And families of criminals, accept that your sons/daughters/nephews are not exactly innocent victims.

Draft time is coming for the Eagles

2008-02-18T13:07:00.003-05:00

Two weeks left before the Eagles make their draft decisions! I'd hate to be in their shoes, knowing that every decision they make it going to be disseted on every blog across America. Except this one... my track record isn't so great, is it? I promise to dissect something on this blog eventually.

All contracts settled for Eagles

2007-07-25T16:05:00.000-04:00

Kevin Kolb, a rookie draft pick for the Eagles, has signed terms to play in Philly, wrapping up all of the Eagles' negotiations for the preseason. This means all players will be present in training camp and all sights are set on football, not on business. Let's hope some of that benefit converts into wins in 2007!

Eagles to celebrate 75th anniversary

2007-05-10T17:59:00.000-04:00

Plans have been laid for a 75th anniversary celebration for the Philadelphia Eagles. Part of the festivities will include a game played in blue and yellow throwback jerseys from the 1933 Eagles team. You won't want to miss your chance at one of those retro McNabb jerseys!

2007-01-17T11:51:00.000-05:00

The Eagles were so close to the title game. Not this year.

Great Defense

2006-12-14T17:20:00.000-05:00

The Eagles 21-19 victory over the Washington Redskins was a big, big win for the team as they continue on their unlikely march towards the playoffs. As I write this the Eagles are 7-6 and in the thick of the playoff hunt. What a difference a year makes, as last season’s Eagles team finished 6-10 and were pretty much instantly done with the playoffs after Donovan McNabb went down.

Let’s credit the defense for this victory. Okay, so they allowed the Redskins to rush for 210 yards. The Redskins also converted on 7 of 16 third downs and had a total of 20 first downs in the game. Not great numbers, but the Eagles offense did little to help them. This was a victory for the defense; they forced two turnovers to set up Eagles TDs, and they held the Redskins to just 19 points.

Cheerleaders Go To England

2006-12-08T17:38:00.000-05:00

NFL owners apparently understand the fundamental idea that sex sells.

The Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders depart today for Manchester, England to represent the National Football League as part of a seven-week promotional tour of the United Kingdom. Twelve Eagles Cheerleaders have been selected to spend two days performing at venues around the UK. NFL owners recently voted to play two regular season games per year outside the United States, starting in 2007, with a strong possibility that the UK will be the venue for one of the first of those games.

Mike Bartrum’s Career in Jeopardy

2006-11-30T18:17:00.001-05:00

It’s a sad week for the Philadelphia Eagles. As many of you know Donovan McNabb tore the ACL in his right knee last week and could be sidelined between 8-12 months after surgery. Well, if that wasn’t bad enough, Mike Bartrum will be out for the rest of the season because of a herniated disk in his neck which might threaten his 13-year career. There has been some speculation that Bartrum might retire at the end of the season. Let’s hope he takes Doctor’s advice before he ends up in a wheelchair.

Can Philly Make It Without Donovan?

2006-11-20T10:12:00.000-05:00

We couldn’t make it through the rest of the game against the Tennessee Titans, after Dononan McNabb tore a knee ligament during the second quarter and had to leave. Jeff Garcia filled his spot, even managed a little toss that added a touchdown for us, but #3 draft pick Vince Young and the otherwise generally pathetic Titans were not going to let their opportunity for a win against the Philadelphia Eagles pass them by.

This NFL season has seen a lot of injured quarterbacks, not to mention some shuffling around of healthy ones, for instance, Romo swapped in for Bledsoe by the Cowboys, but I was really hoping to see McNabb leading the Eagles through a complete season. He has had mid-year injuries that left him benched for the season twice before in five years. Donovan’s got to be totally frustrated–I hope Eagles fans won’t end up that way as well.

Eagles Were Rested and Ready

2006-11-15T14:50:00.000-05:00

Of course, we were not the only team able to perform well against the Washington Redskins so far this season. But it was nice to have a solid 27-3 victory over an NFC East rival. We need to remember what we did and do it again December 10th. No point in splitting with the 'Skins the way the Dallas Cowboys did.

Where'd our offense go?

2006-10-31T16:51:00.000-05:00

Donovan McNabb getting sacked and sacked again? The Eagles being held to 228 yards of offense of which the league's leading passer throws for a grand total of 168 yards? As McNabb commented, "It can't get any worse. With 4-4, it's just not us." I believe the latter, and I sure hope he's right about the former!

What's most depressing to me is who we've lost the last three (straight) to: the New Orleans Saints! The Tampa Bay Bucs! And now the Jacksonville Jaguars. We are ready for a bye week!

Eagles Stunned By Last Second Loss

2006-10-25T19:34:00.000-04:00

Two Tampa Bay TDs came via interceptions off of our Donovan McNabb, but the momentum seemed to be all Philadelphia’s when Brian Westbrook covered 52 yards to make the score 21-20 with only 33 seconds to go.

But it ain’t over ‘til it’s over. The Buccaneers’ Matt Bryant kicked a 62-yard field goal, and then it really was over. 23-21. Oof! When you gain over 500 yards to the other guys’ 214 and still lose, that’s tough. Better luck with Jacksonville, Eagles!

Coincidence?

2006-10-12T15:23:00.000-04:00

The Fantoo Girls did it again. Every time the radio broadcasters, Carol & Robin, turn their back on the game the teams start scoring. This has been the case with a few teams including the Philadelphia Eagles. Could this be superstition or just plain coincidence? The girls have won the Best Sports Podcasting in 2006 from People’s Choice Podcast Awards & they also host a show on Philadelphia’s Sport Talk on Saturdays. Whatever it is, we hope the girls leave at least half way into the game of our favorite teams so we can start scoring.

Monday Night Fabulous

2006-10-03T01:42:00.000-04:00

Who needs T.O.?
After the smackdown we just put on Favre and his Packers, I think a lot of people are going to be believers. We’ve got the best fans, the best team, and the best city in the country. Everyone else can suck it.

Eagles Looking to Stay On the Offensive

2006-10-02T20:06:00.000-04:00

We’ve got some of the NFL’s most impressive offensive talent to use on the Green Bay Packers for Monday night football fans. The Eagles’ QB, Donovan McNabb, went into Week 4 leading the league in passing with 960 yards and seven TDs vs. a solitary interception. A couple other key players are listed as “questionable,” but RB Brian Westbrook has been setting records even with his injured knee! He has been leading the NFL in yardage from scrimmage and touchdowns (5 so far).

I love a high-scoring game, at least when Philadelphia does the scoring. I predict a lot of that tonight.

The Eagles' Loss Is The Cowboys' Pain

2006-06-20T11:58:00.000-04:00

The NFC East is always contentious, which makes for some great football, even if the outcome doesn't always go the way the Eagles want it to. Last year's 6-10 record was not the real Philadelphia, and Donovan McNabb is going to prove it. It will be more interesting to be trying to guess who he's throwing to when it's not T.O. The game I most want tickets for will be October 8th, when the Dallas Cowboys, including Terrell Owens, come to town.

My attention span is short lately…

2006-05-15T20:46:00.000-04:00

I have been reading a lot of mini-camp coverage and there isn’t anything to report. I have been more interested in the New Jersey Nets and Miami Heat playoff series. I am pretty sure the Heat are going to win but I am cheering for the New Jersey Nets anyway.

Bigger Fish to Fry

2006-04-24T19:28:00.000-04:00

The Philadelphia Eagles have chosen the cheerleaders for the 2006 squad and they will be introduced at the Eagles Draft Day Party. I am not very excited that this is the top story on the Eagles official site because there are more pressing matters such as where this team is headed and who the best person to lead it is.

Blame the big guys, up front.

2006-04-03T00:10:00.000-04:00

I was reading an article on the Philadelphia Eagles official site that inferred the team we have is as good as our 2004 squad if looked at player by player. It seems that many still have a lot of faith in Donovan McNabb and believe that he will play to his potential in 2006. The disappointing 2005 season was not his fault by a long shot. The root of the offensive failure was the complete lack of pass protection. So I say we beef up that line before we start predicting playoff contention for the Eagles in 2006.

What are we? Babies?

2006-03-10T18:16:00.000-05:00

I am really concerned about the state of politics in this country. This ports deal is really weighing on my mind. Bush is not telling us anything about why this deal is being made and is hiding his motivations for defying the American people and vetoing legislation that would stop the deal. He has lied to us, in that every time he speaks on the issue he gives a different answer for why he is doing this deal. First it was because we need to support Middle Eastern countries and if we don’t make the deal we were going to look like racists. Now he is saying the deal is meant to get us more money to help out with rebuilding New Orleans. Does he think we are so stupid that we didn’t remember he told a completely different lie the first time he spoke on the matter?

Reggie White Chosen by Hall of Fame

2006-02-03T23:13:00.000-05:00

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is considering Reggie White for induction into its hallowed halls. The Philadelphia Eagles are very proud and so are fans. Reggie White is definitely one of the greats. I bet he’s got tickets to the Super Bowl this Sunday.

A Young Talent

2005-06-16T18:08:00.000-04:00

Good new for the Eagles. They added depth and a young talent to their offensive line yesterday by singing fifth round draft pick, Scott Young. The rookie guard signed a four year contract and will be getting plenty of reps this off-season. He caught Andy Reid’s eye earlier in the year at the NFL combine with setting a record in the bench press by doing 43 reps of 225 pounds. That is a pretty strong guy.

Slow Start

2005-06-07T15:05:00.000-04:00

Tight end L.J. Smith had a rough start and end last season for the Eagles. There was progress through out the season but nothing too spectacular. The reason being for his slow progress was the fact he never fully recovered from his back surgery and had lost a step. Smith even admitted to Fox sports that he wasn’t ready. Well it is a new season and with no T.O. I can bet the tight end will be more involved in the passing game. Maybe this time around he will have a break out season.

The Tony Danza Show

2005-05-31T17:14:00.000-04:00

I guess Terrell Owens does need money, and this is no knock on Tony Danza (I personally think Danza is a cool cat), but Terrell Owens recently went on his show. I have actually seen the Tony Danza show and the guy is quite entertaining.

I am just curious why Owens always needs to be in the spot light. He is such a drama queen. Danza’s T.V. show is day time television so I don’t even know how many people saw that show, but regardless I think Owens should do something with himself, I am beginning to think the guy is a waste of space.

T.O. Who?

2005-05-26T16:21:00.000-04:00

Andy Reid is beginning to forget about Terrell Owens, his attention and the rest of the coaching staff’s attention his now being drawn towards rookie wide receiver Reggie Brown.

Brown is making leaps and breaking boundaries in mini-camps. He is also picking up the West Coast offense very well, which is something most rookies receivers under Andy Reid have a hard time doing. I think this one will be an exception to the rule.

A Deadly Tandem

2005-05-23T18:51:00.000-04:00

Looking around the league I noticed that the Philadelphia Eagles have probably the best safety tandem in the league. With Brian Dawkins returning to his free safety position and Mike Lewis at strong safety, opposing teams are probably drawing up a game plan to stay away from the deep middle or the middle zone in general. Not that my opinion counts in the NFL but I would have to grade this tandem with an A-.

Dawkins Saga

2005-05-17T19:17:00.000-04:00

from Foxsports.com

Free safety Brian Dawkins changed his game last season and still made it to his fourth Pro Bowl. Dawkins was asked to play more deep coverage to help the young cornerbacks and was magnificent as the center fielder. When needed he can still come up in the box and be an aggressive run stopper, and he's probably still the team's best blitzer. That combination of skills, the ability to hit like a linebacker and cover like a cornerback, is what makes the nine-year veteran the best safety in the conference year after year.

In the hands of a Rookie

2005-05-11T18:20:00.000-04:00

The show will go on with out Terrell Owens. Yes Terrell Owens might be the most athletic and dangerous receiver in the league but he is not a team player. And that is what it takes to get to the promise land.

The Eagles draft Reggie Brown in the second round and he has some shoes to fill now that Freddie Mitchell is gone and Owens is pouting.

The show must go On.

2005-05-11T17:36:00.000-04:00

A rookie that has stood out in this weekend camp was second-round draft pick WR Reggie Brown. Brown showed better hands than advertised and ran smoother routes than thought capable of. Brown got most of his work as the outside "X'' receiver.

At this rate who cares about T.O. I guess he doesnt know that the show must go on and under Andy Reid the show will go on with out Terrell Owens regardless of how good of a football player he is.

Reciever Woes

2005-05-06T14:17:00.000-04:00

Is Owens still crying? Does that guy still want more money? This is just ridiculous. Act like a professional Terrell Ownes. Just take there other wide receiver Feddie Mitchell for example. The Eagles released him due to his complaining and criticism of the playbook and quaterback. No wonder why the Niners let him go...

What a Baby

2005-04-19T20:26:00.000-04:00

Why does Terrell Owens have to bring attention to himself. It just seems like no matter what any one does he is never content. The guy just always seems to want more. I can understand being an athelete. One has to push them selfs to be the best and frankly Owens is one of the best at what he does on the field.

I heard the the front office for the Philly is going to move some money around for Owens so he could be content till contract extension time. I just don't understand the guy gets so much money as it is. Plus he is a NFL icon now, what more does he want. I have a feeling this will all blow over by the time mini-camps roll around.

O-Line Shuffle

2005-04-11T11:19:00.000-04:00

When the team traded up in last year's draft to take offensive lineman Shawn Andrews, the plan was for Andrews to play right guard his rookie year and move outside to right tackle in his second year.

Those plans have changed. Because Andrews missed his rookie season with a broken leg, the team wants him to stay inside for at least another year, and perhaps longer.

Right tackle Jon Runyan also played very well last season, pre-empting his move out. Andrews played well inside before his injury and could be more of a natural guard than a tackle anyway.

The loss of free agent Jermane Mayberry also makes it easier for Andrews to assume his old right guard position. . . .

Give to Recieve

2005-03-30T14:06:00.000-05:00

from Foxsports.com

Wide receiver Freddie Mitchell, the team's No. 1 pick in the 2002 draft, wants to be traded or released so he can get more of an opportunity to play. Mitchell has never been more than the team's No. 3 receiver and may have lost that job to Greg Lewis. Mitchell's best games for the team have come in the postseason. He caught the famous 4th-and-26 pass against Green Bay in the 2003 playoffs and had a six-catch, two-touchdown game against Minnesota last postseason. He never seemed to fit in the West Coast offense and also never developed a good relationship with quarterback Donovan McNabb. In a different surrounding under different circumstances Mitchell might prosper, but it doesn't look like it's going to happen as an Eagle. . . .

Kicker David Akers hired a new agent in Jerrold Colton, which is interesting in the fact that the Pro Bowl kicker still has three years left on his contract. Akers, the best kicker in the NFC, is underpaid by today's standards. He'll earn $975,000 this season, $1.35 million in 2006 and $1.275 million in 2007. He might be looking for a new deal, or at least some sort of a raise. The team rarely gives a new deal when there are three years left, however.

Injury Woes

2005-02-12T16:28:00.000-05:00

from Foxsports.com

DE Hugh Douglas played the entire season with two tears in his right shoulder and had surgery immediately after the Super Bowl to correct both. The 33-year-old Douglas will face a six-month rehab, but at full health would be able to help a team next season. He wants to stay with the Eagles, but knows that might not be possible with several young defensive ends on the roster. . . .

TE Chad Lewis' foot injury combined with the fact he'll turn 34 next season may have the team looking for a tight end during the first day of the draft to pair with TE L.J. Smith. Lewis may decide to return for another season, but the team needs to get another young tight end on the roster sooner rather than later.

Owens starting to practice again.

2005-01-31T20:37:00.000-05:00

From sports.yahoo.com:

T.O. is almost a go.

Terrell Owens, the Philadelphia Eagles' All-Pro receiver, practiced Monday for the first time since injuring his ankle last month, moving closer toward returning for the Super Bowl.

``I won't say anything outside of `He looks great. He looks great. He looks great,''' Eagles safety Michael Lewis said.

Owens took part in less than one-third of the team's 30 plays, getting a pass each time he ran a route. Just last week, Dr. Mark Myerson, the surgeon who operated on Owens' right ankle in December, said he would not clear him to suit up against the New England Patriots on Sunday.

``We limited what he did, but he did it well, and he did it with the team,'' Eagles coach Andy Reid said. ``He moved around pretty well. I'll have to see how he does before we decide whether he'll play.''

Owens hasn't played since he severely sprained his ankle and broke his leg in a game against Dallas on Dec. 19. He's expected to be on the field when the Eagles resume practice on Wednesday.

In his first season with the Eagles after eight years in San Francisco, Owens led Philadelphia with 77 catches for 1,200 yards and 14 TDs.

``It's always a lift when you can get anyone out there, an added weapon,'' quarterback Donovan McNabb said. ``He did make some big plays for us. He did an excellent job of coming in and presenting a different type of feel for our passing attack.''

Myerson inserted two screws in Owens' ankle and a plate on the outside of the ankle three days after he was injured. Owens was told after surgery that he had only an outside chance of returning for the Super Bowl, which was 6 1/2 weeks away at the time. But he rehabbed vigorously, hoping to help Philadelphia win its first NFL championship since 1960.

After a checkup last week in Baltimore, Myerson said that while he's pleased with Owens' recuperation, the operation requires a recovery period of eight to 10 weeks. Myerson added that any attempt to accelerate the rehabilitation process poses the same risk for injury.

The final decision on Owens' status will come down to the player, Reid and the team's medical staff.

``Could the same injury occur? Yes,'' Reid said. ``But he won't damage it any further than he already has.''

Owens wasn't available for comment. He's supposed to take part in Tuesday's interview sessions.

``He looked pretty smooth out there,'' tight end L.J. Smith said. ``He's not trying to push it. He's getting his timing down and he caught a couple balls.''

The injury to Owens was a devastating blow for a team that dominated the NFC and clinched the No. 1 seed in the conference after just 14 games. Owens invigorated the Eagles with his attitude, enthusiasm and stellar performance, adding a swagger to a team that desperately needed a personality.

With him, the offense was extremely potent, averaging 25.4 points in 14 games. After Owens was injured, the Eagles lost the last two regular-season games in which most starters hardly played and others were rested.

But the Eagles are 2-0 without Owens in games that matter. While the offense hasn't been dominant without Owens, they've scored 27 points in each of their playoff games against Minnesota and Atlanta.

``He looked good running routes and he caught a few balls,'' center Hank Fraley said. ``You have to account for him when he is on the field because he is a playmaker.''

This is some of the best news we have heard since his injury. We are all hoping that he is ready for the big game this weekend, but only time will tell. There is not doubt in my mind that he will be playing regardless of what the doctors, trainers, or coaches say, but the question is, how well will he play coming off this injury? Ofcourse this leaves room for judgement, on if this will effect his team in a negative way, but we have to keep in mind this is Terrel Owens and the Super Bowl. This could possibly be the biggest game of his career, so lets hope he makes a full recovery before the biggest game of the year and lets also hope that this upcoming game won't be T.O.'s last game. GO EAGLES, BRING US BACK A RING!

SUPERBOWL BABY!

2005-01-24T16:43:00.000-05:00

From sports.yahoo.com:

Fireworks soared above the roof of ``The Linc.'' A blizzard of glitter swirled in the bitterly cold breeze. Fans toasted their team and each other with beers and hugs.

It was a Super-sized celebration four years in the making. And quite a relief, too.

Yo, Philly, how's this sound?

Your Eagles are going to the Super Bowl.

Donovan McNabb & Co. overcame the burden of three straight losses in the NFC championship game and warmed a frozen city's heart, stuffing Michael Vick and the Atlanta Falcons 27-10 on Sunday.

McNabb isn't satisfied yet.

``There's no relief for me,'' he said. ``We'll have relief after the Super Bowl. We set a goal of winning the Super Bowl, not just the NFC. So that's where I'm going. We're excited, but we're not done.''

The Eagles already have soothed a city's fragile psyche, burying the disappointment of the last three years and pulling within one victory of Philly's first major pro championship since the 76ers won the NBA title in 1983.

Twenty-four years ago, the Eagles made it to their first -- and, until Sunday, only -- Super Bowl with a team coached by Dick Vermeil and led by Ron Jaworski. They fell flat in the title game, losing to the Raiders 27-10.

That score went the Eagles' way this time. They will meet New England in Jacksonville, Fla., on Feb. 6 for the NFL championship. The Patriots beat the host Steelers, across Pennsylvania in Pittsburgh, 41-27 for the AFC title.

``We want to go to Jacksonville and get some closure and finish this up,'' receiver Freddie Mitchell said.

The fourth consecutive appearance in the NFC title game proved to be the charm for the Eagles, even though they didn't have top receiver Terrell Owens -- reduced to the role of MVC (Most Valuable Cheerleader) on the sideline.

Nothing was going to stand in the way of this team, which entered the season with a Super Bowl or Bust mentality and met those enormous expectations.

McNabb threw a pair of touchdown passes to Chad Lewis, including the clinching score with 3:21 remaining. That turned the final minutes into a delirious coronation, the 67,717 fans saluting a team that fulfilled its destiny.

``Super Bowl! Super Bowl!'' they chanted when play was halted for the two-minute warning.

The only warm-weather team left in the playoffs went cold in its biggest game of the year. Vick was sacked four times by the fearsome Philly defense, which also came up with a crucial interception that set up David Akers' second field goal.

The significance of the day was evident on the field -- the Eagles pranced and posed after every big play -- and in the stands, where most of the fans never bothered to sit down on a 17-degree day.

``This team has great personality,'' coach Andy Reid said. ``Everybody here in Philadelphia loves 'em.''

The Eagles will be going for their first NFL title since 1960, which predates the Super Bowl by six seasons.

McNabb completed 17-of-26 passes for 180 yards, a workmanlike performance that solidified his position as one of the game's best quarterbacks. He also ran 10 times for 32 yards.

Vick's debut on the Super Bowl stage will have to wait. He completed just 11-of-24 for 136 yards, while the Eagles stifling defense kept him from pulling off one of his signature runs.

He ran it just four times for 26 yards, but gave up even more yards on the sacks. Derrick Burgess dropped the elusive quarterback twice, and Jevon Kearse kept Vick hemmed up on the other side. The Eagles didn't blitz much -- a change in philosophy -- but they made sure Vick didn't get a chance to warm up.

``I didn't get outside the pocket,'' Vick said. ``I think that was their first priority.''

Philadelphia led only 14-10 at halftime, a bit too close for a team that had lost to St. Louis, Tampa Bay and Carolina in the last three NFC title games. Even more galling -- the two more recent defeats were at home.

But, as the sun gave way to a nearly full moon over Lincoln Financial Field, the Eagles dominated the final two quarters. Akers connected from 31 and 34 yards, then McNabb and Lewis teamed up to finish off the Falcons with their 2-yard touchdown.

Owens, who didn't play because of a severe ankle injury, had a prominent role nonetheless. He drew plenty of attention with his sideline antics, flapping his arms and waving a towel to urge on a crowd that didn't need any encouragement.

And he may just recover in time for the Super Bowl.

``I have a feeling he will,'' Reid said.

Owens' teammates filled in admirably. McNabb worked his passes around to eight players, led by Brian Westbrook with five catches for 39 yards. Westbrook also handled the bulk of the running load, carrying 16 times for 96 yards.

Then, it was time for the party -- Philly-style.

``For those about to rock, we salute you,'' AC-DC screamed over the sound system. Fireworks went off above the stadium. And tons of glitter fluttered over the field, recreating the blizzard that swept through the city a day earlier.

``This is their fourth trip in a row to the championship game,'' said Jim Mora, the Falcons' rookie coach. ``They've been in this position before, and they played like they've been in this position before.''

It was a great season for the Falcons, who came within one win of their second Super Bowl after going 5-11 last season. With Vick at quarterback, the future looks bright.

Philadelphia scored on its second possession after Chris Mohr managed just an 8-yard punt into a stiff wind. The Eagles appeared to go three-and-out, but a holding penalty on rookie cornerback DeAngelo Hall kept the drive alive.

Westbrook broke off a 36-yard run, scooting through a huge hole on the right side and breaking through Brian Scott's attempted tackle. Dorsey Levens finished it off with a 4-yard touchdown run, appearing to be stopped at the 2 but getting a shove into the end zone from offensive guard Jermane Mayberry.

The Falcons responded by holding the ball for almost nine minutes, also benefiting from a defensive holding penalty on third down that kept the drive alive. But Philadelphia stiffened on first-and-goal from 2, throwing T.J. Duckett for a loss -- only the second negative run of the season for the 254-pound back. Atlanta was forced to settle for Jay Feely's 23-yard field goal.

Back came the Eagles for another touchdown, set up by another big play. McNabb lofted a pass to Greg Lewis, who was covered by undrafted free agent Christian Morton. Lewis slowed up to catch the ball while Morton stumbled out of position, the result being a 45-yard completion to the Atlanta 4.

Two plays later, it was another Lewis, tight end Chad, making a spectacular catch in the corner of the end zone. He somehow managed to drag both feet inbounds after leaping to pull down the high throw. Atlanta challenged, but the replay clearly backed up the refs' call.

The Falcons followed with their most impressive offensive display. In only five plays, they shredded the Eagles for 70 yards, capped off by Warrick Dunn's 10-yard touchdown with 2:02 left in the first half.

But Atlanta's offense never warmed up over the final two quarters.

While the temperature at kickoff was 17, it felt more like zero. A steady 26 mph wind -- gusting as high as 35 mph -- swept in through the openings on the north end of the stadium.

But the sun and a brilliant blue sky were a striking change from conditions a day earlier. Snow was piled up around the edge of the field, remnants of a blizzard that dumped about a foot of snow and paralyzed much of the East Coast.

The bitter conditions didn't diminish the mood of the fans, nearly all of whom bundled up in something green. They began gathering in the parking lots -- where snow had been plowed into piles higher than their vehicles -- just after sunrise to get an early start on the expected celebration.

Leading up to the kickoff, there was another Philly moment.

The ``Rocky'' theme blared from the speakers, sending the crowd into a towel-waving frenzy. The video board showed clips from the movie interspersed with highlights from the Eagles' season.

Now, they've got a chance to show the biggest highlight of all -- a Super Bowl championship.

Its been 25 years since we have had this oppurtunity, and it couldn't come at a worse time.Owens, Lewis, and Smith are all out with very little chance of returning for the biggest game in the last 25 years. Although it isn't looking to good at the time being, we still crushed the falcons, proving that those guys aren't totally necessary. However, if we want to win this game, these second string guys, need to step up and play like experienced veterans. We aren't done yet, we still got a ring we have to get, keep up the cheering you guys!

No more dances for Moss

2005-01-11T19:43:00.000-05:00

From sports.yahoo.com:

No team in the NFC scored more offensive touchdowns than the Minnesota Vikings. The Philadelphia Eagles allowed the fewest points in the conference.

When the Vikings meet the Eagles in an NFC divisional playoff game on Sunday, it'll be a classic matchup between an elite offense and a superior defense.

``I rank them right up there with Indianapolis and St. Louis,'' Eagles linebacker Ike Reese said of the Vikings. ``They're a quick-strike team. They can beat you in different ways. They run a lot of formations. They're not afraid to put the ball up
Pro Bowl quarterback Daunte Culpepper and star wide receiver Randy Moss lead an offense that scored 405 points, second in the NFC to Green Bay's 424. But Minnesota had 47 of its 50 TDs on offense, while the Packers got five of their 50 TDs on defense.

The Eagles gave up 260 points, an average of 16.3 per game. That number was inflated by the 58 points allowed by the reserves in the last two meaningless games of the regular season.

While Culpepper, Moss, running backs Michael Bennett and Moe Williams and wideout Nate Burleson give the Vikings multiple threats, the Eagles' star-studded defense includes defensive end Jevon Kearse and four Pro Bowlers; middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, cornerback Lito Sheppard and safeties Brian Dawkins and Michael Lewis.

``We have a strong defense,'' Reese said. ``We don't get in shootouts with anybody. We don't need our offense to score a lot of points.''

In the Vikings' 31-17 victory over Green Bay in Sunday's NFC wild-card game, Culpepper threw four TD passes, Moss caught two scoring passes and the offense racked up 384 yards. Minnesota had 14 plays of 10 yards or more against the Packers, including a 68-yard TD catch by Williams and TD receptions of 20 and 34 yards by Moss.

``We have to be conscious of not giving up the big plays, keeping everything in front of us,'' Eagles cornerback Rod Hood said. ``All of their receivers are deep threats. We have to make the tackles when they catch the ball.''

The Eagles beat the Vikings 27-16 in a Monday night game the second week of the season, despite being dominated on the stat sheet. Minnesota held the ball for almost 38 minutes and gained 410 yards, but settled for three field goals when the game still was in reach. Culpepper lost a fumble at the Philadelphia 1 to end a drive in the first half, and a penalty on Moss killed another drive.

``They thrive on big plays,'' Reese said. ``The key for us is to make them drive the ball down the field instead of scoring in three, four or five plays. We have to get 10, 12-play drives out of them and then hold them to field goals.''

Vikings coach Mike Tice said his team won't be intimidated by Philadelphia's notoriously boorish fans.

``You take the fumble and penalty away and then we have a lot closer game that could have been won by either team,'' Tice said. ``We only lost by 11. There will be no fear of playing in Philly, as there was no fear of playing in Lambeau.''

Culpepper had the best season of his six-year career, throwing for an NFL-best 4,717 yards, 39 TDs and just 11 interceptions. He'll back up Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb at the Pro Bowl.

At 264 pounds, the elusive Culpepper outweighs all of Philadelphia's linebackers and its secondary and is within two pounds of the starting defensive ends. Like McNabb, he creates problems whether he runs with the ball or throws it.

``Culpepper can scramble and make you miss or chuck it down field for a big play. He has a canon for an arm,'' Lewis said.

The Vikings are hoping to become the first sixth seed to reach a conference championship game. Since the NFL expanded the playoffs to 12 teams in 1990, eight No. 6 seeds, including seven in the NFC, have won a playoff game. Each team lost in the next round.

``You've got to have that attack attitude,'' Minnesota tight end Jermaine Wiggins said. ``You've got to jump on somebody's throat, and you've just got to smother them.''

I think its about time to get Moss back in his cage with D. He has been running all over without a care in his mind( except his little dances), and I think we have just the recipe to stop him. Our defense has been solid all through the year, and I think its about time that we show our stuff. Lets stop Moss before he does anything stupid!

In memory of Reggie

2004-12-27T19:53:00.000-05:00

from the official site of the Philidelpha Eagles

Former Eagles great Reggie White has died after suffering a massive heart attack Sunday morning at his home near Huntersville, N.C. He was 43.

"Today our beloved husband, father and friend passed away," White's wife, Sara, said through a family pastor. "His family appreciates your thoughts and prayers as we mourn the loss of Reggie White. We want to thank you in advance for honoring our privacy."

White registered 124 sacks during his eight years (1985-92) in Philadelphia, but departed for Green Bay via free agency. In Green Bay, he helped lead the Packers to two consecutive Super Bowl appearances, including a championship in 1996.

Said the Eagles in a statment: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of one of the greatest men ever to play the game of football. On behalf of the entire Eagles family, our condolences go out to his wife, Sara, to his children, and to all those who have been touched by Reggie throughout his life. His legacy on and off the football field will never be forgotten."

Reaction as the Eagles boarded the airplane to travel to St. Louis was swift, and emotional.

"First of all, it was very shocking to hear news like this about a person of Reggie's caliber," said Harold Carmichael, the Eagles' director of player development and alumni. "A lot of people think about Reggie on the football field. I think about him off the field. I think about the things he used to do, the people he used to help. He was a fun guy to be around.

"We never played against each other, but I was around him a lot and saw him a lot. It's tough to talk about it now."

The Eagles reached out to White and brought him back into the organization as the team moved into the NovaCare Complex in 2001. They honored White with a larger-than life cloth mural in the auditorium of the Complex. He, Steve Van Buren, Tommy McDonald and Chuck Bednarik are honored with murals.

"I know it meant a lot to him," said Carmichael. "He wanted to be around, and be part of the Eagles. He was always such a positive person. Even after he left the Eagles, I know he always loved Philadelphia and the Eagles and the fans very much."

Eagles Take To Road, Meet Redskins Sunday

2004-12-12T20:26:00.000-05:00

from NFL.com

The march continues. The Eagles again meet Washington, just three weeks after dispatching the Redskins 28-6 on November 21 at Lincoln Financial Field.

This time, the Eagles play in the nationally-televised game (ESPN) at FedEx Field. Washington is 4-8 and coming off an impressive 31-7 win over the New York Giants last Sunday.

It was the most impressive offensive display of the season for the Redskins.

Running back Clinton Portis rushed for 148 yards and scored two touchdowns in the first half, while quarterback Patrick Ramsey had his best game this season, completing 19 of 22 passes and throwing for three touchdowns.

And it was business as usual for the Redskins' defense, which limited New York's offense to just 145 total yards and 38 rushing yards. Rookie quarterback Eli Manning struggled, completing just 12 of 25 passes for 113 yards. The defense pitched a shutout, with the Giants' only points coming in the third quarter on Derrick Ward's 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

"I'm extremely proud of our guys for everything that has happened to us all year," head coach Joe Gibbs said. "There are so many guys hurt and so many guys injured. I'm very proud of them."

Regarding the offense, Gibbs said: "We had playmakers making plays. We've been missing plays all year. Clinton had a big day. I could tell he would because all week he was asking for the ball. After a couple of weeks of us not doing well in the running game, he felt the need to produce. Our receivers made some great catches. A lot of things that haven't gone well for us this season went well for us."

It was the first time this season that the Redskins had score more than 20 points in a game.

Said Portis: "This offense can produce week-in and week-out. This week we were able to stick to our game plan, pound away with a play-action pass here and there. Guys made plays. We knew this offense can produce."

It couldn't have been a better start for the Redskins. Washington scored on its opening possession, with Portis's 1-yard run capping a 13-play, 93-yard drive. Gibbs elected to have Ramsey hand off to Portis on the offense's first five plays. Portis would go on to carry seven times -- one more than his total rushing attempts in last week's game against Pittsburgh -- for 49 yards on the drive.

Ramsey was perfect on the drive, connecting with Laveranues Coles twice and going 4-4 overall for 32 yards. After a Ramsey pass to Brian Kozlowski gave the offense a first and goal at the 1-yard line, Portis followed a block from fullback Mike Sellers and dove across the left side of the goal line for the early 7-0 lead.

The Redskins took a 14-0 lead early in the second quarter, with Portis scoring his second touchdown of the game on a 4-yard shovel pass from Ramsey.

Eagles are only Undefeated Team in NFL

2004-11-02T14:06:00.000-05:00

By the Associated Press, from ESPN.com

PHILADELPHIA -- The Philadelphia Eagles aren't used to being leaders.

The Eagles usually struggle early in the season, then spend the rest of the year recovering in the standings and jockeying for playoff position.

This year, the rest of the league is trying to catch up to Philadelphia.

At 7-0, the Eagles are off to the best start in franchise history and lead Atlanta (6-2) by 1½ games in the NFC. With New England losing to Pittsburgh, the Eagles are the only undefeated team in the NFL.

No matter, they won't get caught up in the hype. After three straight losses in the NFC championship game, the Eagles won't be celebrating much until they finally get to the Super Bowl.

"You don't enjoy it and you don't put pressure on yourself," Eagles coach Andy Reid said Monday about the 7-0 start. "You go out and you play and you take it like it's a normal week. You don't worry about records or anything else. You just concentrate on the game. You don't have time for all that other stuff."

Last season, the Eagles started with two losses at home in their new stadium. They were 2-3 after five games, but finished 10-1 and clinched home-field advantage in the playoffs when St. Louis lost on the last day of the regular season.

In 2002, the Eagles opened with a loss and were 3-2 after five games. They went 9-2 the rest of the way, needing help to secure the No. 1 seed as Green Bay lost to the Jets on the final day of the regular season.

In 2001, they also lost the opener and were 3-3 after six games. They finished 8-2, but didn't earn a first-round bye.

"It's not really jubilation and excitement about 7-0," safety Brian Dawkins said. "We are happy, but we understand that we still have some tough games to play."

After five double-digit victories to start the season, the Eagles had a tougher time the last two weeks. They needed overtime to win in Cleveland and held off a late rally by Baltimore to win 15-10 Sunday.

"It's going to build character for us and obviously it's going to give us something to build on toward the end of the season," wide receiver Terrell Owens said. "Every win is not going to be a blowout. There are going to be some close games."

Owens and quarterback Donovan McNabb are the main reasons for Philadelphia's perfect start. The two have connected for nine touchdowns, including one that sealed the victory against the Ravens.

A four-time Pro Bowl selection, McNabb is having his best season. He has thrown for 1,972 yards, 14 TDs and three interceptions, and also run for two scores. Owens, an MVP contender in his first season with the Eagles, has 42 catches for 697 yards and nine TDs. He has over 100 yards receiving in the last five games, a career best and a team record.

Next up for the Eagles are the Steelers, who improved to 6-1 with a 34-20 victory that ended New England's NFL-record 21-game winning streak.

"I always thought they were a tough team," Reid said. "I think they have a lot of talent. It will be a lot of fun."

Coach's Clipboard

2004-10-14T19:10:00.000-04:00

By DAVE SPADARO, BOB KENT & CHRIS McPHERSON

Childress: Offense Has Confidence
Terrell Owens showed his confidence by laying down the gauntlet in the direction of Carolina's Ricky Manning, Jr. this week.

How do the coaches feel about T.O.'s verbal expression?

RB Brian Westbrook: Missed NFC title game
"It is what it is. It stands. It's what he said. He's a different personality and I enjoy his personality. He's very confident," said offensive coordinator Brad Childress. "I would tell you, it's refreshing.

"It's different. It's an alternative point of view. He has a history where he's backed it up. It's not bragging if you can back it up."

The bottom line for Childress is that the offense plays with confidence against Carolina on Sunday. Certainly, the offense has been a force in the 4-0 start, and that's something the Eagles want to continue as the season resumes after the bye week.

Childress has a diverse, attacking offense that has a red-hot quarterback and multiple weapons. And he'll have Brian Westbrook for this game against Carolina, unlike in the NFC Championship Game.

"The more tools, the more weapons you can have to attack with, it makes a difference," said Childress. "If you only have one, you can legislate against one player, or in some cases, two. It helps to have as many tools as you can."

Carolina's defense gave the Eagles fits in January. This time, the Panthers aren't the same group. There is no defensive tackle Kris Jenkins. The secondary has been revamped. The linebacker corps has been dinged with injuries.

So what will the offensive attack be? Childress was, predictably, vague.

"We're going to run our offense. There is going to be some run, there is going to be some pass," he said. "We're going to see how they want to deploy against various different formation groupings. We'll see if they have trouble in a (single) area. You kind of probe and see."

Week One For T.O.

2004-09-13T13:07:00.000-04:00

From ESPN.com, by DAVE SPADARO

Next time, Terrell Owens will plan to get to the stadium a lot earlier on game day. Now he knows the logjam that is Eagles fans traffic.
Owens showed up at Lincoln Financial Field late on Sunday, but in plenty of time to make a debut that lived up to the hype. He caught 8 passes for 68 yards and three touchdowns in the 31-17 win over the Giants.

Owens' three scores surpassed the totals of the Eagles' leading wide receivers all of last season. Both Todd Pinkston and Freddie Mitchell scored two touchowns in 2003.

Owens made it look easy. Surely, the Giants offered less resistance than did the brutal pre-game traffic.

"It was pretty rough," Owens said. "I really didn't expect traffic to be this hectic. I got off on Pattison Avenue and I saw the traffic , so I got off the shoulder. During the pres-season, I always went back home (South Jersey) and then came back. So I asked one of the policemen which way to go and he said, 'Dude, you're not going to make it. Let me call an escort for you.' So thank goodness for that."

Owens did not get specific as to what time he arrived only at Lincoln Financial Field.

"I was on time for the game, so that's all that matters," he said.

Indeed. Owens was brilliant in shredding the Giants. He could have had more, too, but the Eagles didn't need it. Owens caught passes short and broke tackles. He went deep. He ran crossing routes.

And he opened lanes for other receivers to exploit, just as the Eagles had drawn up when they traded for Owens in March.

"You saw the amount of balls the guys caught and you saw Donovan (McNabb) distribute the ball to a number of receivers," said Owens, who admitted that one of the reasons he left late for the game was that one of his friends is ill and that the situation was "heavy on my heart." "I know my presence here and what it is going to bring to the table. It is going to enable a lot of guys to go one-on-one and obviously the double-teaming is going to swing my way. There are going to be some opportunities for those guys."

Owens' first touchdown was a post-corner route on which McNabb lofted a pass into the right corner of the end zone. The second touchdown came after McNabb brilliantly rolled to his right, avoided going out of bounds as well as Michael Strahan and found Owens in the middle of the end zone.

The third touchdown was a simple fade route to the right corner of the end zone after McNabb faked a handoff and rolled to the right. After the score, he flapped his arms like, well, an Eagle.

Naturally, the crowd went wild.

Three scores. Not a bad start.

"This is what we talked about since training camp & getting off to a good start. I know the last few years here, the teams have gotten off to a slow start. That's why I felt I could come in and help and get the team off on a good track," said Owens. "It was a good start for us."

Hugh Douglas Returns as an Eagle

2004-09-02T17:30:00.000-04:00

33-year old defensive tackle excited about being an Eagle again, prepares for season.

Even though he's likely to be relegated to a backup role, defensive end Hugh Douglas was excited to be back with the Eagles after getting released by Jacksonville. The 33-year-old Douglas is the second ex-Eagle to return to the team this summer. In June, the club re-signed middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter after he was released by the Washington Redskins. Douglas had just 3 1/2 sacks for the Jaguars last season after receiving a $6 million signing bonus from them.

"I guess I didn't factor in the fact that when you move to another job, you're starting from scratch," Douglas said. "I think I went down there a little bit thinking, "Hell, I had success in Philly, it's just going to naturally come to me.' It didn't. It was so rough in the beginning. I just didn't fit into what they were trying to do. It was nobody's fault."

The Eagles don't know how much Douglas has left in his tank. He'll likely be part of a four-man rotation at the two end spots with starters Jevon Kearse and Derrick Burgess and second-year man Jerome McDougle . But he always was a popular locker room presence before he left.

"He's a nice fit in there," Reid said. "He was a guy that was well-liked on this football team. He's a funny guy. He has a great sense of humor."

The Eagles next game is friday 9/3 against the NY Jets. Their last encounter with eachother was Oct. 26, 2003 where the Jets lost 17-24. Tomorrows game will probably end about the same! GO EAGLES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Quick Recap From Last Night

2004-08-27T19:30:00.000-04:00

An undrafted rookie from North Carolina, Parker perhaps earned himself a roster spot with his performance.

``Looking at the other running backs out there who were drafted, I have a chip on my shoulder,'' Parker said.

Reno Mahe ran for a score and L.J. Smith and Greg Lewis had TD catches for the Eagles
After Jeff Blake connected with Lewis on a 14-yard TD pass to give the Eagles a 21-17 lead, the Steelers went ahead on Parker's 3-yard TD run early in the fourth quarter.

Terrell Owens, the Eagles' biggest offseason acquisition, didn't have a catch. His 41-yard TD reception in the first quarter was negated by a holding penalty on Tra Thomas. He later dropped a pass that hit him in the chest.

McNabb was 8-of-19 for 105 yards and one TD. Blake was 6-of-7 for 63 yards and one TD.

``We're not where we want to be right now,'' McNabb said. ``The exciting part is we're putting points up on the board. When we're doing that, you've got some positive things to look at.''

Friday Nights Preseason Game

2004-08-25T18:42:00.000-04:00

Terrell Owens caught Donovan McNabb's long pass in stride, raced into the end zone, put his hands on his hips, stared at the crowd and nodded his head.

Take that, Ray Lewis.

McNabb and Owens connected on an 81-yard TD pass on Philadelphia's first play, and rookie J.R. Reed returned a kickoff 88 yards for a score, leading the Eagles over the Baltimore Ravens 26-17 in a preseason game Friday night.

``It was definitely something to make a statement,'' Owens said. ``It lets teams know why the Eagles brought me here.''

While preseason games usually attract little interest, most eyes focused on Owens and Lewis, who exchanged verbal jabs after the four-time Pro Bowl receiver spurned the Ravens, forcing a trade to the Eagles after the San Francisco 49ers initially dealt him to Baltimore. Upset by Owens' rejection, Lewis warned the outspoken receiver not to go across the middle. Owens responded by saying Lewis isn't the hardest hitter to play in the league. But the feud didn't live up to its hype as the players hardly crossed paths in just a half of work.

``We did come together and I told him I loved him and he told me he loved me,'' Owens said. ``Ray is my friend.''

Injuries Update

2004-08-19T17:04:00.000-04:00

It's become kind of a morbid guessing game at Philadelphia's practices the last couple of years -- who will be the next defensive player to go down with a serious injury?

Starting defensive end N.D Kalu was the latest casualty after a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee knocked him out for the season.
That means Derrick Burgess becomes the right end. While Kalu offers Burgess tips on being a starter, Burgess can tell Kalu all about rehabilitation -- he missed all but one game the last two years.
As Kalu was on Tuesday, Burgess was injured last season during a routine drill, which makes the injuries more difficult to accept or explain. They have happened mostly on the well-kept grass at the practice facility, not the concrete-like turf at the Eagles' old home, Veterans Stadium.

Of the 13 players on the injured list, 11 are on defense.

Pro Bowl safety Brian Dawkins has barely practiced because of a knee injury. Defensive tackle Sam Rayburn and Dhani Jones both limped around the locker room on crutches Wednesday with high ankle sprains. Defensive end Jerome McDougle only recently started contact drills after sitting out with an injured shoulder.

Defensive tackles Corey Simon (back) and Paul Grasmanis (ankle) have missed most of training camp. Linebacker Nate Wayne has been bothered by a sore hamstring.

Last season, the Eagles' lost Burgess and rookie defensive end Jamaal Green to season-ending injuries in the preseason. McDougle missed the first eight games, and Grasmanis and defensive tackle Hollis Thomas went down with season-ending injuries before the midpoint of the season.

Eagles' Schedule

2004-07-28T17:43:00.000-04:00

Hey Philly, here's the 2004 Philadelphia Eagles schedule:

2004 Preseason
Date Opponent Time/Result
Aug. 13 at New England 8:00 p.m.
Aug. 20 Baltimore 8:00 p.m.
Aug. 26 Pittsburgh 8:00 p.m.
Sept. 3 at New York 7:00 p.m.

2004 Schedule
Date Opponent Result
Sept. 12 New York Giants 4:15 p.m.
Sept. 20 Minnesota 9:00 p.m.
Sept. 26 at Detroit 1:00 p.m.
Oct. 3 at Chicago 1:00 p.m.
Oct. 10 Open Date
Oct. 17 Carolina 1:00 p.m.
Oct. 24 at Cleveland 1:00 p.m.
Oct. 31 Baltimore 1:00 p.m.
Nov. 7 at Pittsburgh 1:00 p.m.
Nov. 15 at Dallas 9:00 p.m.
Nov. 21 Washington 4:15 p.m.
Nov. 28 at New York Giants 1:00 p.m.
Dec. 5 Green Bay 4:15 p.m.
Dec. 12 at Washington 8:30 p.m.
Dec. 19 Dallas 1:00 p.m.
Dec. 27 at St. Louis 9:00 p.m.
Jan. 2 Cincinnati 1:00 p.m.

All times are Eastern

philly blog under way

2004-07-22T18:07:00.000-04:00

Hey, just letting you all know I'll start posting on this blog soon about the Eagles' 2004 season. Come back and check it out!