Well that was fun. After one of the worst weekends in recent memory, the Birds rebounded to smoke the Redskins 27-17. The contest really wasn't even that close. The Eagles jumped to an early 17-point lead in the first half on the strength of some big plays from both the offense and defense along with a few Redskins misuces, and they were able to put things on cruise control in the second half. Washington added seven late in the fourth, when the game was basically already decided.
DeSean Jackson had yet another explosive game, opening the game to the tune of a 67 yard touchdown run with an end around on the fourth play from scrimmage, and adding a 57 yard touchdown reception with a double move on a 3rd and 23 before halftime. Big plays have become a common theme for 10, and whenever he lumps more than one on any given day, the other team is going to have problems staying in the game.
McNabb did not appear to be at his absolute best, but still turned in a decent performance. It wasn't always pretty, just 15 for 25 for 156 and 1 TD. It was enough though, especially against the seventh ranked defense in the NFL.
The offensive line was much better than the previous week, and actually gave the quarterback some time for most of the game. However, there were too many instances where he was flushed from the pocket or sacked. Some of the credit belongs to Washington's defense, particularly the front four and secondary, but it would be nice to see things sured up a bit more, especially with the Giants on the horizon.
Will Witherspoon had about as memorable an introduction as a linebacker could have: one interception returned for touchdown, and one sack for a forced fumble resulting in another turnover. That line is "Today in Philly Sports History" worthy.
The rest of the defense was solid as well. The pass rush was fierce, sacking Jason Campbell six times. Trent Cole brought down the quarterback twice, with Brodrick Bunkley, Chris Clemons, and Jason Babin adding takedowns of their own. Clinton Portis was held in check (14 car, 43 yds) and the secondary didn't allow a passing play over 24 yards.
The Wildcat had yet another disappointing showing, begging the question when the experiment might finally come to an end. With the big hitters due up on the schedule, there's no time left for college-style options and other tricky things that Mike Vick looked a whole lot better at before spending two years out of the NFL. Seriously, these plays develop slowly, and the offense does no't look comfortable running them.
It didn't matter though. The Redskins have officially crossed the threshold from fairly competitive NFL franchise to trainwreck. The coaching situation is a complete joke. The quarterback has been ruined by years of turnover around him. The team takes on aging players with large salaries while developing few of their own stars and ignoring the bottom of the depth chart. It's finally catching up to them in the worst possible way.
Brian Westbrook was injured in the first quarter after banging his head of a Washington player's knee. No word yet on the specifics, but it's like a concussion. The good news is: LeSean McCoy once again looked elusive and potentially explosive. He only carried 12 times for 29 yards, but he seems poised for a breakout.
Original Story:
http://www.the700level.com/2009/10/ea...
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October 26, 2009
