(Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)
Since the Eagles knocked the Giants out of the 2008 playoffs, Philadelphia fans are talking about a special run at the Super Bowl. Eagles fans believe that the Birds are a much better team than the GMen, especially now that McNabb finally has some explosive weapons.
The head to head/position by position 2009 preview lies below, by the numbers.
QB: edge—Even
Eagles—A healthy McNabb with a new $5 million dollar bonus can be dangerous, but has choked down the stretch and is thirty-three years old this November. His arm was sore in mini camp and he was wearing a protective sleeve. Let's see what 5 can do with his new weapons.
Giants—The former Super Bowl MVP lost two major weapons, but has another year of experience. His accuracy can be questioned, but his consistency can't be! He also has some new, young talent around him. He has yet to step up and show he can be an elite quarterback.
RB: edge—Giants
Eagles—Brian Westbrook has basically been injured his entire career. It’s amazing the productivity he has been able to put out so far. Last month (June), B-West had ankle surgery and will mostly likely miss Training Camp. If healthy...one of the best.
Why did he wait so long to have the surgery? Will he be ready? The rookie RB LeSean McCoy from Pitt will be exciting if and when he gets on the field.
Giants—Jacobs is a true beast who runs around you, through you and over you. No. 44 Bradshaw has already shown what he can do... a very special player with break-away speed.
O-line: edge—Giants
Giants—This could be the best o-line in football. This group blocked for two 1000-yard rushers in 2008. This feat has only been done four times in the league history. O’Hara & Snee are recent Pro bowlers.
There's no reason why they would be slowing down. The entire group is under 31.
Eagles—This unit has a bit of uncertainty after losing both starting tackles—tough guy Jon Runyon (eight years) and Tra Thomas (ten years).
Jason Peters is a great pro bowl addition; however, he is not the best tackle in football (claimed by another B/R journalist) but his addition will be felt in the run and passing game. Peters is more athletic than Diehl...so let's see the big boy play in the NFC. Shawn Andrews, the Pro Bowl guard has had some up & downs with depression and a bad back. He is clearly one of the best if healthy.
Center Jackson and RG Stacy Andrews are good not but elite players...they won't hurt the team but head to head, O'Hara and Snee are Pro-Bowlers.
WR: edge—Eagles
Eagles—Curtis and last year’s sensational rookie DeSean Jackson are great slot receivers with plenty of speed and upside. Rumor has it that Curtis might become expendable if Maclin is the real deal. Tight End Brent Celek is a good passing tight end, but struggles when blocking.
Avant doesn’t scare anyone, but the jury is out—Maclin could be the “weapon” McNabb has been asking for!
Giants—Steve Smith is the most reliable receiver on the Giants, and he has made some great catches to earn Eli’s trust and favorite target status.
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