Andy Reid's Decision To Start Donovan McNabb in 2010 Draws Mixed Emotions

Before Sunday’s playoff game against the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb knew he was on the hot seat. Unfortunately, the 34-14 loss increased the temperature of his seat to an uncomfortable level.

While Eagles head coach Andy Reid announced McNabb will be his starting quarterback next season two days after the recent playoff loss to the Cowboys, Philadelphia fans seem to be unhappy with the decision. For some, Sunday’s loss to Dallas was the final straw in the 11 seasons of disappointment during the McNabb era.

Seven playoff appearances with a 10-8 record. Five NFC Championship appearances in eight seasons. Three-straight seasons as the No. 1 seed in the NFC from 2003-05. An appearance in Super Bowl XXXIX against the New England Patriots.

Yet, despite the impressive resume, McNabb was unable to bring the city of Philadelphia the one thing that would wipe away all the criticism—a Super Bowl. Fans don’t care about statistics; the only thing they care about is the city’s first Super Bowl win.

Since Sunday, the Philadelphia media has had a field day debating what will happen next season with McNabb. Some think he will return as the starting quarterback for his 12th season while others believe he’s had enough opportunities over the last 11 years and is nothing more than a failed experiment who needs to be replaced.

So who would his replacement be if the Eagles decided to move on without McNabb? Kevin Kolb? Michael Vick?

Whatever happens, the only sure fact is the Eagles have one exciting offseason ahead of them with this debate most likely lasting until preseason begins. Lucky for McNabb, he’s been dealing with criticism throughout his career, so this is nothing new for him.

The only clear thing right now is the city of Philadelphia and their fans are hungry—and frustrated—for a Super Bowl after all the success from the previous decade. Whether that finally happens over the next couple of seasons—with or without McNabb—is a topic that will be discussed from now until Week One next season.

Dan Parzych Is the Eagles Fan Voice for NFLTouchdown.com

He is also the founder of the new NFCEastFootball.com