Giants vs. Eagles Breakdown 2009

(Photo by Nick Laham/Getty Images)

A different writer wrote a similar article, though I believe it was lacking in substance.

I will try to be as unbiased as possible. 

The reason I pick these two teams is that they are often talked about as the two best teams in the NFC East and in the conference overall.

One of these two teams could (should?) make it to the Super Bowl, and the two (or three) meetings between them could have a heavy impact on the Big Game.

First, I'll look at each position, then I'll look at individual matchups (O-Line vs. D-Line, WR vs. corner).

O-Line

QB: Eagles have the advantage.

This is a classic argument.

Giants fans argue that Eli's Super Bowl ring gives him the advantage, while Eagles fans point to statistics, head-to-head history, and every other piece of evidence.  Eli is one of the best at the two-minute drill, and he has come up with some fourth-quarter magic.

But, so has McNabb, and (for most of his career) he's done it with subpar receivers.

I'll go with McNabb for a few reasons, but the main one is turnovers. McNabb has the lowest interception percentage in NFL history; Eli has thrown 65 in four years as a full-time starter (that's more than one per game) and 74 for his career, against just 98 touchdowns.  Compare that to 194 touchdowns to just 90 interceptions, and the statistics give McNabb a clear edge.  McNabb also has a higher career completion percentage, threw for more yards even though it was a down year for McNabb and a career year for Eli, and has better arm strength, which was a factor in the two meetings in the windy Meadowlands last year.

In a close game between the Eagles and Giants, a turnover can easily swing the outcome. 

In addition, McNabb has better arm strength (which is key in the windy games they play) and ability to avoid the pass rush. Still, Eli is a solid QB and is definitely better than Tony Romo and Jason Campbell.

RB: Giants have the advantage

Brian Westbrook is one of the most exciting players ever, but the Giants have better depth. Jacobs and Bradshaw both have a great deal of experience, and Jacobs has a chip on his shoulder.

The Giants' rushing attack should be formidable once again. Rookie Andre Brown also figures into the equation.

On the other side, the Eagles use their running backs differently. I think Brian Westbrook will still create nightmares for the Giants' linebackers, and Lesean McCoy will also be used extensively. 

However, the Giants have two proven commodities and one unknown; the Eagles have only one proven and one rookie.

So, I'll give the Giants the edge, but keep in mind that both teams use their running backs differently.

The Giants may have more success on the ground, but Westbrook and McCoy will be effective off screens and short passes.

LT: Advantage Eagles

David Deihl is solid, but Jason Peters has amazing versatility in both pass protection and running the football. Whether or not Jason Peters is the best in the NFL is debatable, but he is up there. 

LG: Even

Rich Seubert has experience, but Todd Herremans has steadily improved and could be on the verge of a Pro Bowl.

C: Advantage Giants

Shaun O'Hara is the best in the business.

Period.

Jamaal Jackson is above average, but O'Hara is an All-Pro.

RG: Advantage Giants

Once again, Chris Snee is one of the best players in the NFL at any position. Stacy Andrews is still young and is moving to his more suitable position. His size will allow him to win most battles, but Snee has experience and pedigree.

RT: Advantage Eagles

Despite the position switch, I think Shawn Andrews will be successful. He is a better fit at right tackle because of his athleticism. He has been to Pro Bowls and should dominate this year.

I like Kareem McKenzie, too.  He has a lot of experience, but I think Andrews' talent wins the battle here.

Overall O-Line: Advantage Giants

This unit has played together in a Super Bowl, and that experience makes them the best line in the NFL, with the Eagles a close second.

WR: Advantage Eagles

Desean Jackson is a lot better than Steve Smith. He demands double teams and went for nearly 1,000 yards last year. Smith is solid, but is not on Jackson's level. 

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?