The New York Giants endured an incredulous debacle of a loss Sunday at the new Meadowlands Stadium. Big Blue lost a 38-31 decision to the NFC East rival Eagles on the final play of the game. DeSean Jackson, the speedster in green and white, raced a punt return back 65 yards for the winning touchdown with 13 seconds left in regulation. Jackson has burned teams with his speed all season, but none as electrifying and dramatic as the winning runback of yesterday’s 31-31 ball game. The Eagles scored 28 unanswered points to erase a 31-10 fourth quarter deficit. The Philadelphia victory puts the Eagles in sole possession of first place in the division. Philadelphia swept the two game season series against New York with yesterday’s comeback win. The Giants will have to settle for a wildcard if they hope to make the post-season. New York fell to 9-5 in one of the worst losses in franchise history.
Mario Manningham put the Giants on the scoreboard with his first of two touchdown catches with 3:36 to go in the opening quarter. Manningham caught a 35 yard pass from Eli Manning to complete a nine play, 71 yard drive for the G-Men. The Eagles scored their only points of the first half two minutes into the second quarter. David Akers sent a 34 yard field goal into the end zone to make it a 7-3 game. The Giants’ offense unloaded a pair of touchdowns and added a field goal to increase their lead to 24-3 at the break. Manningham hauled in his second touchdown, a 33 yard bomb from Manning. The receiver finished with 113 yards on eight catches as the Giants trounced Philadelphia during the first half. Lawrence Tynes’ 25 yard field goal was followed by Hakeem Nicks’ eight yard score. Jeremy Maclin’s fumble late in the half was picked up by Giants’ safety, Kenny Phillips to set up Nicks’ touchdown. The Giants outgained the top-ranked Eagles’ offense 222-74 in the first half. It looked like Big Blue was going to coast to the top of the NFC East.
Michael Vick ran for a game high 130 yards and threw 242 behind center for the Eagles. The Giants succeeded in slowing Vick with blitzes for most of the game. Big Blue’s defense sacked Vick twice and constantly applied pressure. Vick completed just six passes for 33 yards. His first touchdown came via a third quarter strike to Maclin to make it 24-10 Giants. Kevin Boss pulled in an eight yard pass from Manning early in the fourth quarter to negate Maclin’s touchdown. The Eagles, facing a huge fourth quarter deficit, shocked the Giants in the final seven and a half minutes. Vick made late work with his arm and the Giants couldn’t tackle or defend. New York’s first 53 minutes of strong play went for naught. Eagles’ tight end, Brent Celek, got the comeback started with a 65 yard touchdown off a missed Phillips tackle. Celek turned a 30-something yard gain into seven points. Vick’s four yard touchdown scramble cut a rejuvenated Philadelphia’s deficit to one score. Maclin avenged for his earlier fumble with a 13 yard touchdown grab with 1:13 left to tie the game at 31-31. Then, there was the final play. Rookie Matt Dodge punted to the Eagles’ elusive return man and Jackson responded accordingly to top off the 28 point rally.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “The Way to Your Heart” by Soulsister
Showing posts with label Philadelphia Eagles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philadelphia Eagles. Show all posts
Monday, December 20, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Eagles’ Enormity
Jason Garrett’s gritty Cowboys were bested by the Eagles 30-27 on Sunday night at Cowboys Stadium. Rival Philadelphia got an enormous lift from standout receiver, DeSean Jackson and running back, LeSean McCoy in improving to 9-4 on the year. Jackson finished with 210 yards and scored on a 91 yard touchdown pass from Michael Vick to snap a 20-20 tie in the fourth quarter. The former Pittsburgh rusher, McCoy, finished with 149 yards on the ground. Dallas, led my sure-handed tight end Jason Witten’s two scores, dropped their ninth decision in an otherwise disappointing season.
Dallas’ defense was overtaken by Vick’s play-action as the Eagles put seven points on the board three minutes into the contest. The Eagles made big plays all night, including during the first touchdown drive. Jackson hauled in a 60 yard pass and Vick capped the six-play drive with a one yard touchdown run. Cowboys’ signal-caller, Jon Kitna, strung together a touchdown drive midway through the first quarter to even the score at 7-7. Tashard Choice added some important gains with the run and Miles Austin got the ‘Boys into Phily territory. Kitna avoided the tenacious blitz from the Philly defense to hit Witten in the end zone from one yard out.
Vick’s two yard pass to Todd Herremans completed a 51 yard, three minute drive and put the Eagles back on top by seven in the second quarter. Vick and Kitna were both picked off during the second quarter. The Cowboys scored with eight seconds before halftime courtesy of David Buehler’s 50 yard field goal. Dallas scored the first ten points of the second half to take a 20-14 advantage. Buehler made a 43 yard field goal to narrow the gap, and took the lead on Felix Jones’ storming scurry off a screen pass into the end zone three minutes later.
David Akers kicked a pair of field goals to tie the game at 20-20 into the fourth quarter. Dallas was able to stall the Eagles and hold them to three until Jackson’s incredible 91 yard touchdown reception. The speedy receiver turned a ten yard pass into a huge gain and a Philadelphia lead. The Eagles held the momentum, adding an Akers’ field goal set up by Kitna’s second interception of the game. Kitna responded with an impressive 80 yard drive and another touchdown pass to Witten. The Cowboys pulled within three points but the Eagles ran out the clock with less than five minutes to earn the victory. Philadelphia hammered down the win despite the Cowboys’ comeback attempt. Dallas is 3-2 under interim coach Garrett. Jackson’s 210 yards were third most in franchise history.
Parting Points: The Patriots are in the playoffs…
Cliff Lee is still keeping everybody in suspense…
Song of the day- “I’d Lie” by Taylor Swift
Dallas’ defense was overtaken by Vick’s play-action as the Eagles put seven points on the board three minutes into the contest. The Eagles made big plays all night, including during the first touchdown drive. Jackson hauled in a 60 yard pass and Vick capped the six-play drive with a one yard touchdown run. Cowboys’ signal-caller, Jon Kitna, strung together a touchdown drive midway through the first quarter to even the score at 7-7. Tashard Choice added some important gains with the run and Miles Austin got the ‘Boys into Phily territory. Kitna avoided the tenacious blitz from the Philly defense to hit Witten in the end zone from one yard out.
Vick’s two yard pass to Todd Herremans completed a 51 yard, three minute drive and put the Eagles back on top by seven in the second quarter. Vick and Kitna were both picked off during the second quarter. The Cowboys scored with eight seconds before halftime courtesy of David Buehler’s 50 yard field goal. Dallas scored the first ten points of the second half to take a 20-14 advantage. Buehler made a 43 yard field goal to narrow the gap, and took the lead on Felix Jones’ storming scurry off a screen pass into the end zone three minutes later.
David Akers kicked a pair of field goals to tie the game at 20-20 into the fourth quarter. Dallas was able to stall the Eagles and hold them to three until Jackson’s incredible 91 yard touchdown reception. The speedy receiver turned a ten yard pass into a huge gain and a Philadelphia lead. The Eagles held the momentum, adding an Akers’ field goal set up by Kitna’s second interception of the game. Kitna responded with an impressive 80 yard drive and another touchdown pass to Witten. The Cowboys pulled within three points but the Eagles ran out the clock with less than five minutes to earn the victory. Philadelphia hammered down the win despite the Cowboys’ comeback attempt. Dallas is 3-2 under interim coach Garrett. Jackson’s 210 yards were third most in franchise history.
Parting Points: The Patriots are in the playoffs…
Cliff Lee is still keeping everybody in suspense…
Song of the day- “I’d Lie” by Taylor Swift
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Drought Departs Dallas
The Cowboys retained the playoff success of the early 1990’s with a convincing first round win over the Philadelphia Eagles Saturday in Dallas. The Eagles onslaught included a pair of touchdown passes from quarterback, Tony Romo. Five straight scoring drives highlighted a record second quarter as the Cowboys went on to pound Philadelphia 34-14. The Eagles fell to America’s team for the third time this season. The 20 point win was the first playoff win for Dallas since 1996. Romo notched his first post-season victory by remaining focused behind center and relying on the top-notch Dallas defense. The Cowboys put away 13 years of frustration with 27 second quarter points and three fumble recoveries. Big D head coach, Wade Phillips, got the monkey off his back too. Sunday’s defeat over the NFC rival Eagles marked Phillips’ first playoff win as a head coach.
Neither team logged a digit during the scoreless first quarter that saw five Dallas penalties. Then, the Cowboys blew the game open recording 27 unanswered points. The 12-5 Cowboys found their rhythm and took a 7-0 lead to set the tone for the night. The Cowboys erased all doubts about recent playoff droughts by never trailing against the visiting Eagles. John Phillips one yard pass reception from Romo with less than a minute into the second quarter was the first score. The 92,000 fans at Cowboys Stadium quieted their cheers on the ensuing Eagles possession. Backup quarterback, Michael Vick, instituted a run-and-pass play to Jeremy Maclin good for a 76 yard Philadelphia touchdown. Dallas was not intimidated, and answered on the next drive. Tashard Choice, the second year back out of Georgia Tech, found a home in the end zone on one of his fourteen touches of the night. Choice, coming off a concussion, was shaken up during the fourth quarter. Romo continued to flourish and completed 23 of 35 passes without an interception. He tossed for 244 yards, hitting Miles Austin for his second touchdown of the game with 1:55 before the half. Austin’s six yard grab was sandwiched between two Shaun Suisham field goals to give the Cowboys a 27-7 halftime lead. Roy Williams, who fizzled out during the regular season, had a respectable first half for Dallas. Williams had five catches for 59 yards as the Cowboys built their lead in the second. Receiver/punt returner, Patrick Crayton, was also solid. He averaged 18.7 yards on punt returns while hauling in three receptions. Austin led all Dallas receivers with 7 receptions for 82 yards. His touchdown before the two-minute warning was set up by a Vick fumble at the Philadelphia 18 yard line. Suisham’s nailed his second kick of the quarter following a fumble by the Eagles’ Leonard Weaver. Brady James pounced on the football, and the replay challenge was upheld to give Dallas one final possession before the break.
The Cowboys’ defense rattled starter, Donovan McNabb, the entire game. The Eagles quarterback came out firing in the second half, connecting with Brent Celek for a 20 yard reception on the first play. Game changing offensive stud, LeSean McCoy, was held in check by Dallas’ defense, and Philadelphia was forced to punt after Celek’s grab. The brilliant receiver McCoy caught just three passes for 14 yards. He scored 90 seconds into the fourth quarter with a pointless four yard touchdown. McNabb failed to complete a pass to sustain the drive because of the talented Dallas secondary. The former Syracuse signal caller completed 19 of 37 passes for 230 yards. He threw the game’s only two interceptions, one to Mike Jenkins midway through the third quarter. The pick came after the visitors were charged with two false start penalties, and tailback, Felix Jones, tallied another touchdown for the Cowboys. Jones took the handoff at the Dallas 27 to the end zone with a 73 yard burst. Big D’s rushing leader finished with a 168 yard effort. Jones replaced Marion Barber as the premier back when Barber became limited with a knee injury during Thursday’s practice. The Eagles finally scored again on McCoy’s late touchdown reception. Phillips swapped running plays with an aerial attack to run out the clock. Romo twice found Austin and flicked complete to Jason Witten to chew up seven minutes in the final quarter. Then the stalwart defense took over, sacking McNabb and forcing his second fumble with four minutes remaining. The Cowboys paralyzed the Eagles but still have a long way to go before they can start talking Superbowl.
Parting Points: Kudos to the Jets too.
Neither team logged a digit during the scoreless first quarter that saw five Dallas penalties. Then, the Cowboys blew the game open recording 27 unanswered points. The 12-5 Cowboys found their rhythm and took a 7-0 lead to set the tone for the night. The Cowboys erased all doubts about recent playoff droughts by never trailing against the visiting Eagles. John Phillips one yard pass reception from Romo with less than a minute into the second quarter was the first score. The 92,000 fans at Cowboys Stadium quieted their cheers on the ensuing Eagles possession. Backup quarterback, Michael Vick, instituted a run-and-pass play to Jeremy Maclin good for a 76 yard Philadelphia touchdown. Dallas was not intimidated, and answered on the next drive. Tashard Choice, the second year back out of Georgia Tech, found a home in the end zone on one of his fourteen touches of the night. Choice, coming off a concussion, was shaken up during the fourth quarter. Romo continued to flourish and completed 23 of 35 passes without an interception. He tossed for 244 yards, hitting Miles Austin for his second touchdown of the game with 1:55 before the half. Austin’s six yard grab was sandwiched between two Shaun Suisham field goals to give the Cowboys a 27-7 halftime lead. Roy Williams, who fizzled out during the regular season, had a respectable first half for Dallas. Williams had five catches for 59 yards as the Cowboys built their lead in the second. Receiver/punt returner, Patrick Crayton, was also solid. He averaged 18.7 yards on punt returns while hauling in three receptions. Austin led all Dallas receivers with 7 receptions for 82 yards. His touchdown before the two-minute warning was set up by a Vick fumble at the Philadelphia 18 yard line. Suisham’s nailed his second kick of the quarter following a fumble by the Eagles’ Leonard Weaver. Brady James pounced on the football, and the replay challenge was upheld to give Dallas one final possession before the break.
The Cowboys’ defense rattled starter, Donovan McNabb, the entire game. The Eagles quarterback came out firing in the second half, connecting with Brent Celek for a 20 yard reception on the first play. Game changing offensive stud, LeSean McCoy, was held in check by Dallas’ defense, and Philadelphia was forced to punt after Celek’s grab. The brilliant receiver McCoy caught just three passes for 14 yards. He scored 90 seconds into the fourth quarter with a pointless four yard touchdown. McNabb failed to complete a pass to sustain the drive because of the talented Dallas secondary. The former Syracuse signal caller completed 19 of 37 passes for 230 yards. He threw the game’s only two interceptions, one to Mike Jenkins midway through the third quarter. The pick came after the visitors were charged with two false start penalties, and tailback, Felix Jones, tallied another touchdown for the Cowboys. Jones took the handoff at the Dallas 27 to the end zone with a 73 yard burst. Big D’s rushing leader finished with a 168 yard effort. Jones replaced Marion Barber as the premier back when Barber became limited with a knee injury during Thursday’s practice. The Eagles finally scored again on McCoy’s late touchdown reception. Phillips swapped running plays with an aerial attack to run out the clock. Romo twice found Austin and flicked complete to Jason Witten to chew up seven minutes in the final quarter. Then the stalwart defense took over, sacking McNabb and forcing his second fumble with four minutes remaining. The Cowboys paralyzed the Eagles but still have a long way to go before they can start talking Superbowl.
Parting Points: Kudos to the Jets too.
Monday, January 4, 2010
'Boys Blank Birds
The Cowboys were dazzling Sunday afternoon in winning the NFC East down in Arlington. The ‘Boys will have to repeat their tremendous performance next week against the Philadelphia Eagles if they are to advance further in the playoffs. Dallas shutout the Eagles at home 24-0 to close out December with a winning record for the first time since 1996. Sunday’s loss snapped a six game winning streak for the Eagles. The triumph also set up a rematch between the NFC rivals in the first round of the playoffs next Saturday. It will be the first post-season NFL game played in the new Cowboys stadium.
Wade Phillips’ offense implemented the run and relied on the secondary and pass rush defense to carry the Cowboys over Philadelphia. Marion Barber and Felix Jones rushed combined for 103 yards on 14 carries in the first three series of Sunday’s contest. Each back finished with 91 yards as the Cowboys finished the regular season with an impressive 11-3 record. The win capped off a 6-2 home record for Dallas this season, and they are now riding a three game winning streak into the playoffs. The ‘Boys’ running game has been on the rise since the debacle against San Diego four weeks ago. The Cowboys are 9-2 when they run the ball more than 100 yards per game. It was hardly a problem establishing the run against the Eagles’ defense yesterday. Barber and Jones were able to get into their rhythm early, and remained a factor late in the game. The talented duo glided down the field on the opening possession to set up the Cowboys’ first touchdown. Barber had three touches, including an 18 yard surge. Jones carried the ball one yard before Dallas quarterback, Tony Romo, hit Jason Witten on third down from the Eagles’ 10 yard line. Witten’s ten yard touchdown grab was the elite tight end’s second of the season. It was good to see Witten scoring points and being a contributing factor in the win. He is one of the most underrated players in the league. The Dallas tight end caught six passes for 76 yards. In doing so, Witten became the third player at his position to post multiple 90-catch, 1,000 yard seasons.
The Eagles suffered poor field position most of the game. Thus, they never found the end zone. The Eagles were pinned inside the 20 yard line on their first nine possessions. David Buehler taunted Philadelphia’s special teams with four of five touchbacks on kickoffs. Rookie Jeremy Maclin, the former Missouri wideout, returned the only Eagles kickoff for 17 yards. It wasn’t as if the Eagles didn’t chew up yards against the Cowboys. Eagles’ signal caller, Donovan McNabb, passes for 223 yards and completed 20 of 36 throws. It was the lack of a ground game and array of fumbles that did the Eagles in on Sunday. And, of the course the Dallas pass rush was quite effective. McNabb was sacked for an eight yard loss on Philadelphia’s initial drive. Dallas held the ball over six minutes on their second possession but the drive ended with Romo’s only interception. Joselio Hanson picked Romo off at the Philadelphia seven yard line with two minutes remaining in the first quarter. The toss intended for Patrick Crayton was returned six yards. McNabb drove the Eagles to the Dallas 39 yard line to start the second quarter. His pass to Maclin was incomplete on third and and eight, and the Cowboys took over. Romo promptly and methodically marched Dallas down the field. After a false start penalty that set the Cowboys back five yards, Romo connected with Crayton for a 30 yard gain. A pair of Barber rushes and two significant tosses to Miles Austin were enough to put the Cowboys back in the red zone. Austin caught consecutive passes of 40 and 5 yards. Crayton hauled in the 14 yarder for the 14-0 Dallas lead to close out the 80 yard drive. Dallas wasn’t finished with their first half scoring there. Shaun Suisam’s 44 yard field goal lifted the home team to a 17-0 romping of Philadelphia. The Cowboys had 291 yards by halftime in the first ever back-to-back blankings in franchise history.
Jones accounted for the only other score of the game. The two-year back out of Arkansas plowed into the end zone from 49 yards out with 5:46 left in the third quarter. Following Jones’ half-the-field run, the Dallas defense continued to pound McNabb. They sacked him for a ten yard loss and took over on downs in the waning minutes of the third. McNabb hit the turf again on the Eagles’ next possession. Romo took snaps and handed the ball off to his running backs to finish the fourth quarter. He also found Clayton and Witten to extend the Dallas drives late in the game. DeSean Jackson, the game-breaking Philadelphia receiver, was held to three receptions. Eagles tight end, Brent Celek, lead the team with 96 yards on seven catches. Crayton and Austin finished with 99 and 90 yards, respectively, and Romo threw for 311 yards. Everything seems to be clicking on offense for the Cowboys. They’ve already beaten the Eagles twice this season. Now they have to dispatch them when it counts most.
Parting Points: Happy 50th birthday to REM’s Michael Stipe!
Poem for Monday- “The Sun” by Max Eastman
Wade Phillips’ offense implemented the run and relied on the secondary and pass rush defense to carry the Cowboys over Philadelphia. Marion Barber and Felix Jones rushed combined for 103 yards on 14 carries in the first three series of Sunday’s contest. Each back finished with 91 yards as the Cowboys finished the regular season with an impressive 11-3 record. The win capped off a 6-2 home record for Dallas this season, and they are now riding a three game winning streak into the playoffs. The ‘Boys’ running game has been on the rise since the debacle against San Diego four weeks ago. The Cowboys are 9-2 when they run the ball more than 100 yards per game. It was hardly a problem establishing the run against the Eagles’ defense yesterday. Barber and Jones were able to get into their rhythm early, and remained a factor late in the game. The talented duo glided down the field on the opening possession to set up the Cowboys’ first touchdown. Barber had three touches, including an 18 yard surge. Jones carried the ball one yard before Dallas quarterback, Tony Romo, hit Jason Witten on third down from the Eagles’ 10 yard line. Witten’s ten yard touchdown grab was the elite tight end’s second of the season. It was good to see Witten scoring points and being a contributing factor in the win. He is one of the most underrated players in the league. The Dallas tight end caught six passes for 76 yards. In doing so, Witten became the third player at his position to post multiple 90-catch, 1,000 yard seasons.
The Eagles suffered poor field position most of the game. Thus, they never found the end zone. The Eagles were pinned inside the 20 yard line on their first nine possessions. David Buehler taunted Philadelphia’s special teams with four of five touchbacks on kickoffs. Rookie Jeremy Maclin, the former Missouri wideout, returned the only Eagles kickoff for 17 yards. It wasn’t as if the Eagles didn’t chew up yards against the Cowboys. Eagles’ signal caller, Donovan McNabb, passes for 223 yards and completed 20 of 36 throws. It was the lack of a ground game and array of fumbles that did the Eagles in on Sunday. And, of the course the Dallas pass rush was quite effective. McNabb was sacked for an eight yard loss on Philadelphia’s initial drive. Dallas held the ball over six minutes on their second possession but the drive ended with Romo’s only interception. Joselio Hanson picked Romo off at the Philadelphia seven yard line with two minutes remaining in the first quarter. The toss intended for Patrick Crayton was returned six yards. McNabb drove the Eagles to the Dallas 39 yard line to start the second quarter. His pass to Maclin was incomplete on third and and eight, and the Cowboys took over. Romo promptly and methodically marched Dallas down the field. After a false start penalty that set the Cowboys back five yards, Romo connected with Crayton for a 30 yard gain. A pair of Barber rushes and two significant tosses to Miles Austin were enough to put the Cowboys back in the red zone. Austin caught consecutive passes of 40 and 5 yards. Crayton hauled in the 14 yarder for the 14-0 Dallas lead to close out the 80 yard drive. Dallas wasn’t finished with their first half scoring there. Shaun Suisam’s 44 yard field goal lifted the home team to a 17-0 romping of Philadelphia. The Cowboys had 291 yards by halftime in the first ever back-to-back blankings in franchise history.
Jones accounted for the only other score of the game. The two-year back out of Arkansas plowed into the end zone from 49 yards out with 5:46 left in the third quarter. Following Jones’ half-the-field run, the Dallas defense continued to pound McNabb. They sacked him for a ten yard loss and took over on downs in the waning minutes of the third. McNabb hit the turf again on the Eagles’ next possession. Romo took snaps and handed the ball off to his running backs to finish the fourth quarter. He also found Clayton and Witten to extend the Dallas drives late in the game. DeSean Jackson, the game-breaking Philadelphia receiver, was held to three receptions. Eagles tight end, Brent Celek, lead the team with 96 yards on seven catches. Crayton and Austin finished with 99 and 90 yards, respectively, and Romo threw for 311 yards. Everything seems to be clicking on offense for the Cowboys. They’ve already beaten the Eagles twice this season. Now they have to dispatch them when it counts most.
Parting Points: Happy 50th birthday to REM’s Michael Stipe!
Poem for Monday- “The Sun” by Max Eastman
Monday, December 14, 2009
Jackson Jolts 'Jints
Sunday’s shootout between the Giants and the Eagles ended Philadelphia’s way. The Eagles bested their NFC East neighbors 45-38 in East Rutherford to reclaim sole possession of the division. Revered kick return/receiver, sophomore DeSean Jackson, made the victory look easy for visiting Philadelphia. The electrifying Jackson scored his eighth touchdown of 50 or more yards to set a franchise record and tie the NFL mark. The Eagles receiver caught a 60 yard pass from Donovan McNabb to give his team a 37-31 lead in the third quarter. The touchdown was a crucial one. The Eagles blew leads of 14-0 and 30-17 before Jackson changed the game with the end zone grab. Jackson also returned a punt 72 yards the other way in the second quarter by bedazzling the Giants and taking off down the sideline. The former California Bear’s blistering back finished with an impressive 178 yards on six receptions in addition to the tiptoe down the sideline on the punt return.
The Birds came up huge against the Giants Sunday night, and didn’t waste time scoring points. Talented tight end, Brent Celek, sparked the Eagles early lead with an 8 yard touchdown catch on a screen pass from McNabb. McNabb and backup Michael Vick lead the offense 67 yards on a six play drive to set up the opening touchdown. Vick threw for 32 yards and scored a rushing touchdown from one yard out to end the first quarter. Less than two minutes after McNabb dumped the ball to Celek for the 7-0 lead, the Eagles were on the board again. Cornerback, Sheldon Brown, got an early Christmas gift from the Giants. New York running back, Brandon Jacobs, fumbled at the line of scrimmage. Brown recovered the bounce and soared straight with a clear path to the end zone. Lawrence Tynes netted a 26 yard field goal to give the Giants their first points. The kick came after signal caller, Eli Manning, orchestrated a seven minute, 15 play drive.
Manning connected with rookie, Hakeem Nicks, in the second quarter to pull New York within four of the Eagles. Nicks sprinted 57 yards to earn the 60 yard touchdown, his fifth of the season. Philadelphia was charged with a pair of illegal contact penalties, including a key third and eleven call. The Giants took full advantage safety, Quintin Mikell’s miscues to snag their first touchdown. David Akers’ 20 yard boot gave Philadelphia a seven point lead with just over six minutes in the half. The Eagles built back their 14 point lead with solid special teams. Jackson fielded a 41 yard punt and raced past Giants punter, Jeff Feagles, to secure the double digit lead with 4:09 before halftime. Jackson made a scintillating spectacle of himself a week after suffering a concussion. New York’s Ahmad Bradshaw took a handoff in the backfield and scooted sharply for a three yard touchdown before Jackson hurt the Giants again. Dynamic DeSean 44 yard reception on third and twenty helped set up Vick’s rushing touchdown. The Eagles took a 30-17 halftime lead into the locker rooms.
The Giants scored two of the three third quarter touchdowns. Jacobs completed an 11 play drive with a one yard rushing score. The New York running back carried the ball 15 times for 60 yards in Sunday’s defeat. The Giants bludgeoned Philadelphia’s defense for 158 yard on offense in the third. Hixon gave New York a 31-30 lead after hauling in a 61 yard pass from Manning. The Eagles failed to tackle the young receiver and failed to get pressure on Manning. The Giants’ defense couldn’t stop the Eagles whenever New York was on top. McNabb’s pass to Jackson provided the Eagles with the lead again. The touchdown to end the third quarter proved to be the game winner. Philadelphia went on to score seven more points in the final quarter, but it wasn’t needed in the end. Giant receiver, Mario Manningham, was called out of bounds on what looked to be a New York touchdown in the fourth. Manningham could not keep his left foot in bounds. He did make two grabs for 7 and 19 yards before the two minute warning. Manning hit Kevin Boss from four yards to give the Giants a chance with a touchdown inside the two minute mark. Tynes’ onside kick was recovered by the Eagles. Following a Philadelphia three-and-out, Manning was sacked at the New York 12 yard line and preceded to fumble the ball. The turnover signaled the end for New York this rainy Sunday night. The Giants fizzled in the end and missed their chance to capture the division lead. Dallas’ loss to San Diego and New York’s dropping by the Birds means the Eagles are in first place with less than a month to play. There are three games remaining. The 9-4 Eagles hold a two game lead over Big Blue, and a one game advantage of Big D. Dallas and New York are primed to play for the number two NFC wildcard spot now.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan
I went to see The Blind Side last night. Great story. Great movie.
The Birds came up huge against the Giants Sunday night, and didn’t waste time scoring points. Talented tight end, Brent Celek, sparked the Eagles early lead with an 8 yard touchdown catch on a screen pass from McNabb. McNabb and backup Michael Vick lead the offense 67 yards on a six play drive to set up the opening touchdown. Vick threw for 32 yards and scored a rushing touchdown from one yard out to end the first quarter. Less than two minutes after McNabb dumped the ball to Celek for the 7-0 lead, the Eagles were on the board again. Cornerback, Sheldon Brown, got an early Christmas gift from the Giants. New York running back, Brandon Jacobs, fumbled at the line of scrimmage. Brown recovered the bounce and soared straight with a clear path to the end zone. Lawrence Tynes netted a 26 yard field goal to give the Giants their first points. The kick came after signal caller, Eli Manning, orchestrated a seven minute, 15 play drive.
Manning connected with rookie, Hakeem Nicks, in the second quarter to pull New York within four of the Eagles. Nicks sprinted 57 yards to earn the 60 yard touchdown, his fifth of the season. Philadelphia was charged with a pair of illegal contact penalties, including a key third and eleven call. The Giants took full advantage safety, Quintin Mikell’s miscues to snag their first touchdown. David Akers’ 20 yard boot gave Philadelphia a seven point lead with just over six minutes in the half. The Eagles built back their 14 point lead with solid special teams. Jackson fielded a 41 yard punt and raced past Giants punter, Jeff Feagles, to secure the double digit lead with 4:09 before halftime. Jackson made a scintillating spectacle of himself a week after suffering a concussion. New York’s Ahmad Bradshaw took a handoff in the backfield and scooted sharply for a three yard touchdown before Jackson hurt the Giants again. Dynamic DeSean 44 yard reception on third and twenty helped set up Vick’s rushing touchdown. The Eagles took a 30-17 halftime lead into the locker rooms.
The Giants scored two of the three third quarter touchdowns. Jacobs completed an 11 play drive with a one yard rushing score. The New York running back carried the ball 15 times for 60 yards in Sunday’s defeat. The Giants bludgeoned Philadelphia’s defense for 158 yard on offense in the third. Hixon gave New York a 31-30 lead after hauling in a 61 yard pass from Manning. The Eagles failed to tackle the young receiver and failed to get pressure on Manning. The Giants’ defense couldn’t stop the Eagles whenever New York was on top. McNabb’s pass to Jackson provided the Eagles with the lead again. The touchdown to end the third quarter proved to be the game winner. Philadelphia went on to score seven more points in the final quarter, but it wasn’t needed in the end. Giant receiver, Mario Manningham, was called out of bounds on what looked to be a New York touchdown in the fourth. Manningham could not keep his left foot in bounds. He did make two grabs for 7 and 19 yards before the two minute warning. Manning hit Kevin Boss from four yards to give the Giants a chance with a touchdown inside the two minute mark. Tynes’ onside kick was recovered by the Eagles. Following a Philadelphia three-and-out, Manning was sacked at the New York 12 yard line and preceded to fumble the ball. The turnover signaled the end for New York this rainy Sunday night. The Giants fizzled in the end and missed their chance to capture the division lead. Dallas’ loss to San Diego and New York’s dropping by the Birds means the Eagles are in first place with less than a month to play. There are three games remaining. The 9-4 Eagles hold a two game lead over Big Blue, and a one game advantage of Big D. Dallas and New York are primed to play for the number two NFC wildcard spot now.
Parting Points: Song of the day- “This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan
I went to see The Blind Side last night. Great story. Great movie.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Fowl Flying
The Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys are tied for the NFC East division lead. New York (Giants) hosts the Eagles next week after sweeping the Cowboys at home this season. The Giants downed Dallas 31-24 in the final game at Giants Stadium between the two teams. Philadelphia beat the Atlanta Falcons on the road 34-7 in Michael Vick’s return to Atlanta as an Eagles quarterback. The Giants are 7-5 behind the 8-3 Cowboys and Eagles. Atlanta fell to 6-6 and sit two games behind the Eagles in the NFC wildcard standings. The Falcons weren’t exactly flying against the soaring Eagles. The game was magnified by the enormous playoff implications and Vick’s return. The second half was essentially non-competitive after two scores separated the conference rivals in the first. Atlanta nearly missed being shutout in their own building. Mike Smith’s team scored on the final play of the game to avoid the first 0-fer since the 2004 season.
Vick put up a pair of touchdowns for the Eagles. It was the first time the former Falcon danced into the end zone since 2006. The Philadelphia backup signal caller rushed from five yards out in the third quarter to give the visiting birds a 20-0 lead. Vick padded the Eagles’ lead on a five yard touchdown pass to tight end, Brent Celek. It was the final Philadelphia score of the day, giving the NFC East leaders a 34-0 advantage with 2:17 remaining. Atlanta quarterback, Chris Redman, completed a three yard touchdown pass to Roddy White for the Falcons only score of the game. The touchdown came after Atlanta drove the length of the field on 13 plays. Redman was filling in for last season’s darling quarterback, Matt Ryan. He was coming off a week in which he navigated the Falcons to a last-second win a week ago. Sunday was not his day. Redman finished 23-of-44 with 235 yards through the air. He was picked off twice by the stingy Eagles defense. Cornerback Sheldon Brown returned a Redman miscue 83 yards for a Philadelphia touchdown.
Vick vexed his former team and even with a missed David Ackers field goal in the first quarter, the Eagles seized every opportunity in Sunday’s blitzing of the birds. Donovan McNabb threw a touchdown pass to go along with a 238 yard afternoon. The former Syracuse standout connected with Leonard Weaver for the Eagles first touchdown. Weaver caught five passes, including the four yard grab to give the Eagles a 10-0 lead to end the first quarter. Akers drilled his second field goal in the second quarter. The 33 yarder was booted 1:18 before the half. Redman was successful in finding tight end, Tony Gonzalez, but the Falcons porous offensive line couldn’t protect him long enough to sustain a substantial drive. Redman and the offense struggled to get in sync. The Falcons also did not capitalize on two crucial Philadelphia penalties before halftime. Without their franchise quarterback, it was hard to find touchdowns but they had their chances. Facing a fourth-and-two at the Eagles two yard line, Jason Snelling was stuffed before crossing the goal line. The Falcons turned the ball over on downs with .21 left in the second quarter.
Atlanta was minus five offensive stars but the Eagles had a few key players on the sidelines. Philadelphia overcame their injuries to make plays happen on the field. The reeling Falcons were too loose in the secondary. The defense failed to cover Celek or stop Jeremy Maclin from snagging McNabb flicks. McNabb completed four consecutive passes on the opening drive of the third quarter. He hit Jason Avant for 15 and 8 yards, LeSean McCoy for another 8 and Maclin for 7 before Vick’s touchdown run. Maclin landed 83 yards on four receptions. Celek had only a pair of receptions but scored a touchdown. Weaver fronted the Eagles with 37 yards rushing and made a brilliant one-handed catch for a 59 yard reception. Vick sprinted and sharply shook off tackles for his current team the way he used to do in Atlanta. Number 7 went 2-for-2 in passing and scrambled for 17 yards on four runs. Vick was triumphant in his return to the Georgia Dome, much to the chagrin of faithful Falcons fans. The three time Pro Bowler heard the boos but was also showered with adoring cheers. Andy Reid let third string quarterback, Kevin Kolb, finish out the game. That’s how bad things were for the fumbling Falcons. White’s 15th career 100 yard receiving day and Gonzalez breaking the team’s single-season reception mark did little to deflect the sting from the decisive blowout loss. Their playoff chances were dealt an incredible blow yesterday. Atlanta has four games remaining to right the ship. These fighting Falcons can do it if they find ways to convert third and fourth downs, get healthy on offense and seriously begin putting up points.
Parting Points: Happy Birthday to the one and only, Tino Martinez!
Vick put up a pair of touchdowns for the Eagles. It was the first time the former Falcon danced into the end zone since 2006. The Philadelphia backup signal caller rushed from five yards out in the third quarter to give the visiting birds a 20-0 lead. Vick padded the Eagles’ lead on a five yard touchdown pass to tight end, Brent Celek. It was the final Philadelphia score of the day, giving the NFC East leaders a 34-0 advantage with 2:17 remaining. Atlanta quarterback, Chris Redman, completed a three yard touchdown pass to Roddy White for the Falcons only score of the game. The touchdown came after Atlanta drove the length of the field on 13 plays. Redman was filling in for last season’s darling quarterback, Matt Ryan. He was coming off a week in which he navigated the Falcons to a last-second win a week ago. Sunday was not his day. Redman finished 23-of-44 with 235 yards through the air. He was picked off twice by the stingy Eagles defense. Cornerback Sheldon Brown returned a Redman miscue 83 yards for a Philadelphia touchdown.
Vick vexed his former team and even with a missed David Ackers field goal in the first quarter, the Eagles seized every opportunity in Sunday’s blitzing of the birds. Donovan McNabb threw a touchdown pass to go along with a 238 yard afternoon. The former Syracuse standout connected with Leonard Weaver for the Eagles first touchdown. Weaver caught five passes, including the four yard grab to give the Eagles a 10-0 lead to end the first quarter. Akers drilled his second field goal in the second quarter. The 33 yarder was booted 1:18 before the half. Redman was successful in finding tight end, Tony Gonzalez, but the Falcons porous offensive line couldn’t protect him long enough to sustain a substantial drive. Redman and the offense struggled to get in sync. The Falcons also did not capitalize on two crucial Philadelphia penalties before halftime. Without their franchise quarterback, it was hard to find touchdowns but they had their chances. Facing a fourth-and-two at the Eagles two yard line, Jason Snelling was stuffed before crossing the goal line. The Falcons turned the ball over on downs with .21 left in the second quarter.
Atlanta was minus five offensive stars but the Eagles had a few key players on the sidelines. Philadelphia overcame their injuries to make plays happen on the field. The reeling Falcons were too loose in the secondary. The defense failed to cover Celek or stop Jeremy Maclin from snagging McNabb flicks. McNabb completed four consecutive passes on the opening drive of the third quarter. He hit Jason Avant for 15 and 8 yards, LeSean McCoy for another 8 and Maclin for 7 before Vick’s touchdown run. Maclin landed 83 yards on four receptions. Celek had only a pair of receptions but scored a touchdown. Weaver fronted the Eagles with 37 yards rushing and made a brilliant one-handed catch for a 59 yard reception. Vick sprinted and sharply shook off tackles for his current team the way he used to do in Atlanta. Number 7 went 2-for-2 in passing and scrambled for 17 yards on four runs. Vick was triumphant in his return to the Georgia Dome, much to the chagrin of faithful Falcons fans. The three time Pro Bowler heard the boos but was also showered with adoring cheers. Andy Reid let third string quarterback, Kevin Kolb, finish out the game. That’s how bad things were for the fumbling Falcons. White’s 15th career 100 yard receiving day and Gonzalez breaking the team’s single-season reception mark did little to deflect the sting from the decisive blowout loss. Their playoff chances were dealt an incredible blow yesterday. Atlanta has four games remaining to right the ship. These fighting Falcons can do it if they find ways to convert third and fourth downs, get healthy on offense and seriously begin putting up points.
Parting Points: Happy Birthday to the one and only, Tino Martinez!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Romo's Road Rally Response
Miles Austin hauled in the go-ahead touchdown from Tony Romo on third-and-fourteen midway through the fourth quarter. The Dallas Cowboys went on to beat NFC East rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles, 20-16 Sunday night. Even though the Eagles were without one of their top playmakers, running back Brian Westbrook, Dallas took over sole possession of first place in the division with the victory. The Cowboys are in the driver’s seat to win the NFC East. The New York Giants, who were throttled by the Eagles last week, fell for the fourth straight time yesterday. New York’s debilitating string of losses puts them in an awfully strenuous position the rest of the tough scheduled regular season. The Cowboys are firmly the favorite to capture the division. They should play the next few weeks with guarded optimism. Dallas simply has to look over their shoulders to see the hungry Eagles.
Dallas stopped a shaky Donovan McNabb at their 45 yard line on fourth-and-inches before Austin’s catch gave the Cowboys a 20-13 lead. Romo pump-faked a pass and nailed a wide-open Austin from 49 yards down the left sideline. The Eagles never relinquished the lead. David Ackers kicked a 52-yard field goal to cut the lead to four, but Big D held off the high flying birds at Lincoln Financial Field. McNabb threw for 227 yards, one score and a pair of interceptions. Romo turned in a 307 yard effort for Dallas. The Dallas quarterback finished 21 of 34 with one touchdown and one pick. The 6-2 ‘Boys started the scoring early when Tashard Choice crashed into the end zone five minutes into the contest. The drive was set up by Gerald Sensabaugh’s interception on Philadelphia’s first possession. Sensabaugh snatched McNabb’s pass intended for Jeremy Maclin on a deflection to end the quarterback’s 118 straight pass streak without a pick. Ackers cut the Dallas lead to one with a pair of field goals in the second quarter. The 11 year veteran kicker was accurate from 45 and 48 yards. The Eagles would need more than field goals to beat Dallas, however. After Nick Folk increased the Cowboys’ advantage to four points again late in the second, Philadelphia constructed a dazzling 77 yard drive after the half. Eagles’ standout, LeSean McCoy, turned a short pass into a 45-yard gain, and McNabb escaped the Dallas pass rush to find Brent Celek in the end zone.
Sheldon Brown intercepted Romo on the Cowboys’ ensuing possession. It was Romo’s first interception in 144 passes. He’s gradually increasing and improving his accuracy as a signal-caller. Philadelphia was unable to capitalize on the turnover because of an illegal block penalty. Folk tied the game at 13-13 after Michael Jenkins intercepted McNabb. It was the former South Florida cornerback’s third pick of the year. Dallas went three-and-out to begin the final quarter. The Eagles pieced together a credible, convincing drive that ended with a reviewed fourth-and-one quarterback sneak up the middle. McNabb tried going up the middle at the Dallas 45 yard line. He went without a gain, and Dallas took over on downs. That’s when Romo instituted the game-winning drive, concluding with Austin’s grab. The defense sacked McNabb after riding the quarterback’s tail on Philadelphia’s final possession to limit the Eagles to a field goal. The Cowboys proceeded to run out the clock. All-pro receiver, Jason Witten, lead all players with seven receptions. Marion Barber rushed for 50 yards on 12 carries for the ‘Boys. Dallas held DeSean Jackson, the slick scoring phenom, to just two catches. Jackson has six touchdowns for Philadelphia this year, and most of them have come on 50 yards or more. Jackson’s longest pass from McNabb Sunday was a 20-yarder. The Cowboys proved they are a tougher and more poised team that was downed in the playoffs last season. They steadily outplayed the Eagles in a physical game with playoff tones during their 100th meeting as foes. Romo was a smart and efficient passer and was accommodated by an operational offense. It was the defense that helped Dallas earn the reward of the top NFC East team at midseason. The secondary’s fierce rush and heavy blitz maintained enough pressure on McNabb to keep Maclin and Jackson in check. And it was the defense that kept Philadelphia out of the end zone after Austin’s catch. You can’t dismiss nose tackle, Jay Ratliff’s two sacks on the former Syracuse quarterback wearing green. The defense was the reason Andy Reid’s team exhausted their timeouts. The Eagles are 2-1 in the division; The Cowboys 1-1. The teams no longer have identical records. The perseverant Cowboys have one leg up in securing a spot in the NFL’s post-season parade.
Parting Points: Monday song- “Down” by 311
Monday sports trivia- Monday Night Football announcer, Howard Cosell, was known as “The Mouth”
I can’t believe the Pac-10 agreed to reinstate Oregon’s LeGarrette Blount.
Dallas stopped a shaky Donovan McNabb at their 45 yard line on fourth-and-inches before Austin’s catch gave the Cowboys a 20-13 lead. Romo pump-faked a pass and nailed a wide-open Austin from 49 yards down the left sideline. The Eagles never relinquished the lead. David Ackers kicked a 52-yard field goal to cut the lead to four, but Big D held off the high flying birds at Lincoln Financial Field. McNabb threw for 227 yards, one score and a pair of interceptions. Romo turned in a 307 yard effort for Dallas. The Dallas quarterback finished 21 of 34 with one touchdown and one pick. The 6-2 ‘Boys started the scoring early when Tashard Choice crashed into the end zone five minutes into the contest. The drive was set up by Gerald Sensabaugh’s interception on Philadelphia’s first possession. Sensabaugh snatched McNabb’s pass intended for Jeremy Maclin on a deflection to end the quarterback’s 118 straight pass streak without a pick. Ackers cut the Dallas lead to one with a pair of field goals in the second quarter. The 11 year veteran kicker was accurate from 45 and 48 yards. The Eagles would need more than field goals to beat Dallas, however. After Nick Folk increased the Cowboys’ advantage to four points again late in the second, Philadelphia constructed a dazzling 77 yard drive after the half. Eagles’ standout, LeSean McCoy, turned a short pass into a 45-yard gain, and McNabb escaped the Dallas pass rush to find Brent Celek in the end zone.
Sheldon Brown intercepted Romo on the Cowboys’ ensuing possession. It was Romo’s first interception in 144 passes. He’s gradually increasing and improving his accuracy as a signal-caller. Philadelphia was unable to capitalize on the turnover because of an illegal block penalty. Folk tied the game at 13-13 after Michael Jenkins intercepted McNabb. It was the former South Florida cornerback’s third pick of the year. Dallas went three-and-out to begin the final quarter. The Eagles pieced together a credible, convincing drive that ended with a reviewed fourth-and-one quarterback sneak up the middle. McNabb tried going up the middle at the Dallas 45 yard line. He went without a gain, and Dallas took over on downs. That’s when Romo instituted the game-winning drive, concluding with Austin’s grab. The defense sacked McNabb after riding the quarterback’s tail on Philadelphia’s final possession to limit the Eagles to a field goal. The Cowboys proceeded to run out the clock. All-pro receiver, Jason Witten, lead all players with seven receptions. Marion Barber rushed for 50 yards on 12 carries for the ‘Boys. Dallas held DeSean Jackson, the slick scoring phenom, to just two catches. Jackson has six touchdowns for Philadelphia this year, and most of them have come on 50 yards or more. Jackson’s longest pass from McNabb Sunday was a 20-yarder. The Cowboys proved they are a tougher and more poised team that was downed in the playoffs last season. They steadily outplayed the Eagles in a physical game with playoff tones during their 100th meeting as foes. Romo was a smart and efficient passer and was accommodated by an operational offense. It was the defense that helped Dallas earn the reward of the top NFC East team at midseason. The secondary’s fierce rush and heavy blitz maintained enough pressure on McNabb to keep Maclin and Jackson in check. And it was the defense that kept Philadelphia out of the end zone after Austin’s catch. You can’t dismiss nose tackle, Jay Ratliff’s two sacks on the former Syracuse quarterback wearing green. The defense was the reason Andy Reid’s team exhausted their timeouts. The Eagles are 2-1 in the division; The Cowboys 1-1. The teams no longer have identical records. The perseverant Cowboys have one leg up in securing a spot in the NFL’s post-season parade.
Parting Points: Monday song- “Down” by 311
Monday sports trivia- Monday Night Football announcer, Howard Cosell, was known as “The Mouth”
I can’t believe the Pac-10 agreed to reinstate Oregon’s LeGarrette Blount.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Merciful McNabb Meets Michael
Our country is a very forgiving one. We tend to afford people second chances even after they’ve committed heinous and despicable crimes. We also sometimes reward bonehead behavior. Michael Vick picked Philadelphia for his second chance. The Eagles landed the NFL’s biggest distraction when head coach, Andy Reid, showed enough compassion to sign Vick to a one year, $1.6 million deal. Vick has a team option for a second year worth $5.2 million. Let the trash talk begin.
The superstar, three time Pro Bowl quarterback served 18 months in prison for operating and running a dogfighting ring. The federal sentence and year and a half away from football appears to have changed Vick. He has been making a conscious effort with the community and Human Society to make up for his cruel, illegal behavior. No matter what Vick does or says off the turf this Fall, he still has to perform on the field to re-establish himself as a player. Vick has been out of action since 2006. Although he was one of the most talented and slickest running quarterbacks in the NFL, Vick has to have lost some of his endurance and strength while behind bars. The Eagles’ frightening decision to take a chance on Vick is an interesting one. Philadelphia quarterback, Donovan McNabb, was a proponent and influence in the signing of the chastised former Atlanta Falcon. McNabb apparently lobbied for the team to go after Vick, stating he has known Michael since high school and been his mentor for several years. Vick has also had well-respected former head coach, Tony Dungy, on his side. Dungy was present at Friday’s news conference to introduce Vick to Philadelphia.
The Eagles have a great support system and terrific upper management. They also have one of the most passionate fan bases in the NFL. Vick joins an NFC East team that made a surprise run into the playoffs and endured an impressive post-season last year. His career statistics against NFC East teams is off the chart terrific. Vick cited yesterday he wants to be a part of Philadelphia’s winning organization. (When was the last time the team won a Superbowl, by the way?) He was appreciative of Reid and the Eagles willingness to step up and give him a second chance in the NFL. Dungy will be at Vick’s assistance whenever he needs a hand. The stable and well-structured team might be the best place for Vick at this time. The Eagles insurance policy at quarterback is Kevin Kolb. Vick brings an immediate tempting option for Reid should McNabb struggle and find himself on the bench again this season. The addition of Vick hardly makes McNabb a better player though, and I fail to see how Michael makes the Eagles a more daunting team. There can only be one quarterback on an NFL team. Time and time again teams have tried the two-quarterback approach and proven both do not co-exist. It seems like a happy marriage between McNabb and Vick, but it can only work if they both have defined roles.
It won’t be smooth-sailing for Vick, whether he starts for the Eagles or not. He is sure to hear jeers from every opposing fan base the Eagles play in 2009. Vick may have the support of his teammates and the hometown fan but the rest of America is still disgusted with his actions. Vick showed remorse for being a part of a culture that didn’t care for animals. It still won’t be enough for some animal lovers to accept his apology. I think Vick’s punishment more than fit the crime. He lost all his money and served an equitable jail sentence for what he did. However, I am just as appalled as anyone about his actions, and am unwilling to give the man another chance at playing football. Some argue he shouldn’t be able to do what he loves most now. I agree, but there are comparable situations where professional players have done far worse than run dogfigthing rings. All these players did not exhibit high standards to morality, and were still rewarded by being accepted back into the league. Why should Vick have have more job security than a law-abiding citizen? His behavior does not merit a million dollar deal. It’s not up to the fans to determine whether a player should be able to return to the game but we can still hold our opinions. What Michael Vick did was wrong. No one will argue that. He should be given a second chance but it shouldn’t be in the NFL.
Parting Points: Did the Yankees forget how to lose or something?
Song of the day- “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
The superstar, three time Pro Bowl quarterback served 18 months in prison for operating and running a dogfighting ring. The federal sentence and year and a half away from football appears to have changed Vick. He has been making a conscious effort with the community and Human Society to make up for his cruel, illegal behavior. No matter what Vick does or says off the turf this Fall, he still has to perform on the field to re-establish himself as a player. Vick has been out of action since 2006. Although he was one of the most talented and slickest running quarterbacks in the NFL, Vick has to have lost some of his endurance and strength while behind bars. The Eagles’ frightening decision to take a chance on Vick is an interesting one. Philadelphia quarterback, Donovan McNabb, was a proponent and influence in the signing of the chastised former Atlanta Falcon. McNabb apparently lobbied for the team to go after Vick, stating he has known Michael since high school and been his mentor for several years. Vick has also had well-respected former head coach, Tony Dungy, on his side. Dungy was present at Friday’s news conference to introduce Vick to Philadelphia.
The Eagles have a great support system and terrific upper management. They also have one of the most passionate fan bases in the NFL. Vick joins an NFC East team that made a surprise run into the playoffs and endured an impressive post-season last year. His career statistics against NFC East teams is off the chart terrific. Vick cited yesterday he wants to be a part of Philadelphia’s winning organization. (When was the last time the team won a Superbowl, by the way?) He was appreciative of Reid and the Eagles willingness to step up and give him a second chance in the NFL. Dungy will be at Vick’s assistance whenever he needs a hand. The stable and well-structured team might be the best place for Vick at this time. The Eagles insurance policy at quarterback is Kevin Kolb. Vick brings an immediate tempting option for Reid should McNabb struggle and find himself on the bench again this season. The addition of Vick hardly makes McNabb a better player though, and I fail to see how Michael makes the Eagles a more daunting team. There can only be one quarterback on an NFL team. Time and time again teams have tried the two-quarterback approach and proven both do not co-exist. It seems like a happy marriage between McNabb and Vick, but it can only work if they both have defined roles.
It won’t be smooth-sailing for Vick, whether he starts for the Eagles or not. He is sure to hear jeers from every opposing fan base the Eagles play in 2009. Vick may have the support of his teammates and the hometown fan but the rest of America is still disgusted with his actions. Vick showed remorse for being a part of a culture that didn’t care for animals. It still won’t be enough for some animal lovers to accept his apology. I think Vick’s punishment more than fit the crime. He lost all his money and served an equitable jail sentence for what he did. However, I am just as appalled as anyone about his actions, and am unwilling to give the man another chance at playing football. Some argue he shouldn’t be able to do what he loves most now. I agree, but there are comparable situations where professional players have done far worse than run dogfigthing rings. All these players did not exhibit high standards to morality, and were still rewarded by being accepted back into the league. Why should Vick have have more job security than a law-abiding citizen? His behavior does not merit a million dollar deal. It’s not up to the fans to determine whether a player should be able to return to the game but we can still hold our opinions. What Michael Vick did was wrong. No one will argue that. He should be given a second chance but it shouldn’t be in the NFL.
Parting Points: Did the Yankees forget how to lose or something?
Song of the day- “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Wiley Wisenhunt Wins With Wise Warner
The 37 year old former grocery clerk and NY Giants castaway, Kurt Warner, is going to another Superbowl. Warner’s accuracy and fourth quarter comeback ability enabled the Arizona redbirds to punch a ticket to Tampa. Ken Whisenhunt, the rookie Cardinal coach, credits his team’s capacity to gel at the right time as the reason they will be one of two teams playing February football.
Arizona’s defense has stepped up this post-season. Knocked all season long, they exposed Donovan McNabb and contained the hot, Brian Westbrook, in Sunday’s game. McNabb had three touchdowns for the Eaglesa and still put up impressive numbers in the second half. But the formerly coy Cardinals came through when the pressure was on the defense late in the game. Much of the victory can be attributed to Todd Haley’s potent offense, led by the veteran Warner. Warner completed four touchdown passes for 279 yards in the Philly win. Wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, was the recipient of three of those. The former University of Pittsburgh player had nine total receptions for 162 yards. His 419 receiving yards in the post-season means a new single-season record. Jerry Rice can no longer lay claim to that remarkable feat.
The Eagles disappointed defensively and Jim Johnson was out coached. Philly came into the championship game with the top defense in the league. Credit Arizona for being able to control the pounded presented to them all game long. The Eagles offense collapsed in the first half and McNabb was horrendous. When he finally was able to put something together, it was too little, too late. The Cards surrendered 18 unanswered points by the 4th quarter and it looked like Philadelphia might fly away with a late miracle. The Eagles had a 25-24 lead when Warner wasted no time in displaying his determination to drive his team down the field. Tailback, Tim Hightower, put Arizona back on top with a touchdown pass from his smart quarterback Kurt. The Cardinals punter, Ben Graham, should take a bow also for sealing the deal by pinning Philly deep in their own territory. The Eagles last attempt failed as DeSean Jackson lateraled to Westbrook, who fumbled to end the game. McNabb did have on last rally with under three minutes to make the Eagles NFC champs. But, on 4th and 10 from at the Arizona 47, his pass to Kevin Curtis was ruled incomplete. It appeared to be defensive passer interference, but the referees did not make the call and there was no challenge. Curtis had four receptions for 122 yards. Eagles tight end, Brent Celek, scored two touchdowns as well.
I am happy for the Cardinals. The franchise has had tough luck through the years. It will be interesting to see Russ Grim and Whisenhunt match up with their former Pittsburgh team in two weeks.
Arizona’s defense has stepped up this post-season. Knocked all season long, they exposed Donovan McNabb and contained the hot, Brian Westbrook, in Sunday’s game. McNabb had three touchdowns for the Eaglesa and still put up impressive numbers in the second half. But the formerly coy Cardinals came through when the pressure was on the defense late in the game. Much of the victory can be attributed to Todd Haley’s potent offense, led by the veteran Warner. Warner completed four touchdown passes for 279 yards in the Philly win. Wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, was the recipient of three of those. The former University of Pittsburgh player had nine total receptions for 162 yards. His 419 receiving yards in the post-season means a new single-season record. Jerry Rice can no longer lay claim to that remarkable feat.
The Eagles disappointed defensively and Jim Johnson was out coached. Philly came into the championship game with the top defense in the league. Credit Arizona for being able to control the pounded presented to them all game long. The Eagles offense collapsed in the first half and McNabb was horrendous. When he finally was able to put something together, it was too little, too late. The Cards surrendered 18 unanswered points by the 4th quarter and it looked like Philadelphia might fly away with a late miracle. The Eagles had a 25-24 lead when Warner wasted no time in displaying his determination to drive his team down the field. Tailback, Tim Hightower, put Arizona back on top with a touchdown pass from his smart quarterback Kurt. The Cardinals punter, Ben Graham, should take a bow also for sealing the deal by pinning Philly deep in their own territory. The Eagles last attempt failed as DeSean Jackson lateraled to Westbrook, who fumbled to end the game. McNabb did have on last rally with under three minutes to make the Eagles NFC champs. But, on 4th and 10 from at the Arizona 47, his pass to Kevin Curtis was ruled incomplete. It appeared to be defensive passer interference, but the referees did not make the call and there was no challenge. Curtis had four receptions for 122 yards. Eagles tight end, Brent Celek, scored two touchdowns as well.
I am happy for the Cardinals. The franchise has had tough luck through the years. It will be interesting to see Russ Grim and Whisenhunt match up with their former Pittsburgh team in two weeks.
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