Bleacher Report - Articles by chris klinkner

The Offseason Targets for the Philadelphia Eagles

chris klinkner — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 09:59:00 -0500

T.J. Houshmandzadeh and his 9.8 yards per catch average is little more than a rich team's Jason Avant.

Anquan Boldin is going to cost Roy Williams' type draft picks and contract money. You also can't overlook the me-first tantrum he threw after his team won the NFC Championship.

Julius Peppers is a freak, but to this fan his signing would bring back bad memories of the other Freak. Plus the Eagles finished third in the NFL in sacks last season, so pressuring the QB is not a real concern.

I am not inventing the wheel here when I say that the Eagles top two offseason targets (outside of the draft) should be signing Jordon Gross and trading for Tony Gonzalez.

Yea I know signing an OT isn't a sexy move, but it is the smartest move for the Eagles. You wanna run the ball, well you need blocking. You wanna be a pass happy offense, well you need someone to protect No. 5. Gross answers both of these needs.

And unlike the WR and DE positions (where the Eagles have some depth and talent) there is no current solution at OT. Runyan will be coming off surgery and Thomas got abused this post season. Plus signing Gross allows the Eagles to use their first round picks on skill position players and we all saw how successful such a draft plan can be with DeSean.

Tony Gonzalez equals red zone production. Enough of the Eagles dominance between the 20s and then having to settle for only three points. In the past three seasons (2006-'08) the Eagles' TEs caught a combined 14 touchdowns. Last season alone Gonzalez had 10 TDs playing with nobody QBs. Celek may have shown us something in the post-season, but he ain't no Gonzalez.

Gross, Gonzalez, and a first round RB...it's really that simple (I hope)!

Anquan Boldin Is Roy Williams

chris klinkner — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 14:16:00 -0500

Actually we all know that Boldin is a better WR than Williams. Just look at the numbers...it's not even a close comparison. Such facts should mean the end of the cries to bring Boldin to Philadelphia this offseason via a trade.

Thank you Jerry Jones, you have screwed us Eagles' fans (just one more reason to hate the Dallas Cowboys). Why? Well if Roy Williams requires a team to give up picks in the first, third, sixth, and seventh rounds, plus a $45 million contract (with $20 million guaranteed) how much do you think it will cost to pry a WR with Boldin's ability?

The answer...more than the draft pick hoarding, salary cap saving Eagles are willing to fork over. So rumors of Boldin coming to Philly may make for good headlines in these long winter months, but the reality is that when training camp rolls around in August Curtis and Jackson will still be No. 1 and No. 2 on the depth chart.

Donovan McNabb is Not New Deal Worthy

chris klinkner — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 09:57:00 -0500

I've said it before and I will say it again...Donovan McNabb is the best QB option for the Eagles currently on their roster, available in the upcoming draft, available in free agency, or available via trade.

The Eagles are at their best with McNabb under center again next season. Go ahead and find me a better option...you can't.

But what I don't agree with is the need for the Eagles to reward McNabb with a new contract. Yea it sucks that his signing bonus money is all but gone and his current deal provides him with little security...but as they say...them the brakes.

I just don't see how you reward a guy that is coming off a season that had him being benched and producing numbers take were middle of the pack QB numbers. Nine+ million dollars seems more than fair for a QB that was ranked:

QB Rating: 14th
Passing Yards: seventh
TD Passes: eighth
Completion Percentage: 18th
Average Yards Per Pass Attempt: 18th
Yards Per game: ninth
Interceptions: 14th

Again good numbers, but numbers that have you home and not in Hawaii this weekend. Numbers that are worthy of his current contract, but not a new deal.

If the man needs more money maybe there can be a built in incentive clause for keeping his mouth shut...like a no whining clause. It would be a win win for all.

Blame Reid The GM

chris klinkner — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 13:18:00 -0500

Are you tired of saying or hearing that McNabb has to play better for the Eagles to win?

Did you ever stop to think that maybe quarterback Donovan McNabb is playing at his highest level, and that there is no more to give? If not, well maybe you should start thinking that way.

I am not taking anything away from McNabb's talents. He is still in the upper echelon of QBs in this league, but at the same time the man does have his shortcomings.

After 10 years is it really realistic to expect McNabb to improve or change his ways? At this point McNabb is who he isnaccept it and save your bitching for Andy Reid the GM.

McNabb is Reid's guy, 10 seasons together, through all the highs and lows. Reid knows the makeup of McNabb better than anyone.

Despite this season after season Reid continues to not surround McNabb with better talent to compensate for the things that McNabb can't do, and to a lesser extent Reid the coach needs to game plan better for McNabb's weaknesses.

As we enter yet another off-season without the Lombardi, Reid the GM has another opportunity to bring in the personnel and talent to maximize the QB that he has. If Reid again fails why should we as fans expect the ending to be any different for the Eagles next season.

Until the players around McNabb change, the Eagles, like their QB, will continue to be good, but in the end they will never be the greatest.

The Eagles Need The Phillies

chris klinkner — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 08:01:00 -0500

A little over two weeks is all that is left until pitchers and catchers report.

For the Eagles, spring training can't get here fast enough.

The Steelers Super Bowl victory has again opened up the flood gates of Eagles, Reid, and McNabb haters. You would think that Philadelphia didn't have a hockey or basketball team playing with the sports headlines again focusing on the Eagles inability to be Steeler-like and capture a championship.

McNabb is again a bum, a choker, and could never carry the jock strap of a Roethlisberger. Reid is again a bumbling idiot who needs to be shown the exit. Come on people and CALM DOWN!

True, the Eagles squandered away a golden opportunity against the Cardinals. Sure, they have some holes to fill during the offseason. But as a whole they are not a wreak, a lost cause. Please don't forget that the Eagles were only ONE win away from going to Tampa themselves. They carry defensive and offensive units that are top-10.

So come on spring training and let's go Phillies.

Give the Philly fans something to focus their attention on besides bashing the Eagles.

Give the Philadelphia Eagles Fans Want They Want

chris klinkner — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:51:00 -0500

The Super Bowl is done. The 2008-'09 season is officially history. Time to think draft and free agency. It's also time to think back to the 1999 draft. It's where all the hating started...

The Eagles drafted Donovan McNabb with the second overall pick. A mayor and a small group of idiots who made the trip to the draft booed the pick because the pick wasn't Ricky Williams. As we read this now we all know the Eagles made the wise pick...case easily closed...shut.
But those booing idiots doomed the Eagles' fan base. Each season we are bashed by the national media about how we don't appreciate the greatness of McNabb. The hating all started on draft day. But as they say, what would you expect from a fan base that booed Santa Claus?!? Go screw!

But even worse than the media bashing was that the 1999 draft laid the foundation for a whinny QB who to this day still feels the need to let everyone know about his poor treatment, being under appreciated, and the chip on his shoulder. Hey Donovan, we know you are great and the best QB option we got, so shut the f-up!

So as we enter free agency this offseason guess which RB is available for the taking? Yep, you guessed it...Ricky Williams (UFA)!

So to all those idiots who booed McNabb back in 1999, here's your man. I am thinking that those boos should now be directed at Ricky!

That Wasn't McNabb Out There

chris klinkner — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 08:02:00 -0500

Well I am glad that is over. All teams are back to 0-0. Time for the 2009-'10 season.

Last night's game was the Super Bowl, but this fan kept thinking he was watching a replay of the NFC Championship game.

One team is down big and the game is surely out of reach. But it wasn't. A comeback is made to take the lead. Now all the pressure sits on the shoulders of the QB to march his team down the field with 2:37 left in the game. As an Eagles' fan you have been taught to think that such a thing is impossible.

Holy crap...you can actually win a game when trailing with two minutes to go. I guess that is why Big Ben is sporting two rings and McNabb is not.

They Call Him Beanie

chris klinkner — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 14:40:00 -0500

Take 'em out back, cause he is done.

Damn people! This is how we treat our elders?!? I am now petrified to turn 30 in a few months. Some injuries and a 30-year-old body has everyone screaming that Westbrook is done.

Funny, less then a year ago we were all screaming to give the man a new deal. Well to join the side of the majority, all signs should point to the Eagles using pick No. 21 to draft a RB. B-West can still be the MAN, but to be safe use the 1st round pick this year!!

Prior to the playoffs I was all for drafting a TE with the first pick, but Celek showed himself to be the anti-L.J. so on to the next need...the running back. And no one fits the pick better than Chris "Beanie" Wells (as a PSU fan it pains me to support anything from THE Ohio State).

But Wells has the goods.

6'1'', 237 pounds
A 40 time of about 4.4 seconds (he can get to the outside)
Runs with power, shedding off the first would-be-tackler (a true run-between-the-tackles RB)
30 TDs, 3382 yards in just 33 games

With that No. 28 pick lets get us a tackle to pave some holes for Beanie.

The Philadelphia Eagles: The Almost Super Bowl Champs

chris klinkner — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 10:02:00 -0500

Came across this email today...

This DVD comes jam-packed with the following bonus features:

Donovan McNabb's regurgitations in 3-D
TO's unedited driveway press conference, complete with abdominal workout
A primer on Andy Reid's famous one-liners after yet another devastating big-game loss
Lorenzo Booker—Brian Westbrook's Heir Apparent

But wait—if you order now, we'll throw in the Reid and McNabb "Football Fundamentals" series:

- Time management
- The two-minute drill
- Winning the big game
- What to do 10 years into a five-year plan
- How to run a balanced offense

But wait—there's more! The first 100 buyers will get a bonus DVD featuring:

- In-depth biographies of the Eagles' first round picks in 2007 and 2008
- "Where Are They Now?"—Reno Mahe, Todd Pinkston, and Freddie Mitchell discuss why no other team but the Eagles would have them
- Tales from the Turnstile: The Winston Justice Story
- Three Yards and a Cloud of Dust: A Short History of Kick Returner Jeremy Bloom

We can't run a deal like this all day. But if you promise to tell a friend about this DVD, we'll include 90 minutes of propaganda from the Eagles Minister of Information, Dave Spadaro!

Hey, Andy Reid: Don't Forget About These Players

chris klinkner — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 03:58:00 -0500

As all the Eagles talk shifts toward offseason acquisitions and the draft in hopes of improving the squad, don't go overlooking 2008 draft picks Bryan Smith and Jack Ikegwuonu.

The value of Smith could be stepping in for Jaqua Parker. Parker was an early season stud again, but unfortunately—like the '07-08 season—Parker disappeared in the second half of the season. In the Eagles' final 13 games, Parker had .5 sacks. Yikes! In his final 13 games of the '07-'08 season, Parker had 2 sacks. Yikes!

Smith was drafted to be a pass rush specialist. Though undersized for a DE, the Eagles are counting on his speed to create havoc off the edge. Abiamiri can play the end on rushing downs and then Smith and Clemons can bring the heat on 3rd down.

The drafting of Ikegwuonu raised a lot of eyebrows last year. The kid had a torn ACL and his 2008 season would be lost. But maybe credit the Eagles for thinking ahead with this former All-American.

This offseason Sheppard will likely be shown the exit. Hanson is an UFA; with his recent strong play he should be able to secure himself a nice contract and starting role elsewhere. CB, a position of strength and depth in 2008, suddenly becomes weak. Ikegwuono could find himself third on the CB depth chart before ever playing a down.

Is it Time for the Philadelphia Eagles to Address Right Tackle Again?

chris klinkner — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 21:41:00 -0500

Think back. OK, think way back. It's the year 2000 and the Eagles are in need of a Right Tackle to help anchor their OL. The Eagles make a BIG splash in free agency and sign John Runyan.

It's now nine seasons later and the man has yet to miss a game. But will the streak continue with the Eagles for the '09-'10 season? It's one of the big questions surrounding this Eagles' off-season.

If the answer is no on Runyan, well why not follow the same blue print that brought Runyan to the Eagles in 2000. Make another big free agency splash by signing Jordan Gross of the Carolina Panthers. The man is an UFA and oh yea, a 2008 Pro Bowler too.

Do the Eagles have a shot at Gross? Well logic says since the Panthers slapped the franchise tag on Gross last year he should be available to the highest bidder this off-season. Will the Eagles spend the big bucks? Big Red has always valued the importance of a strong OL.

Gross may not be the pretty pick for the fans. He isn't T.J. or Peppers, but he might be the smartest move of the three. To run you need blocking. To pass you need protection. It all starts up front.

Gross and Andrews. The right side of the OL would be dominant. Even Reid would run the ball behind these two beasts!

T.J. Houshmandzadeh: The Answer?

chris klinkner — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:14:00 -0500

The flavor of the moment at WR for the Eagles to pick up seems to be T.J. Houshmandzadeh. The man is a UFA, so having to work out a trade package wouldn't be an issue (unlike with getting Boldin in Eagles' green).

I would never shy away from saying that the Eagles don't need help at the WR position, but there are other more pressing needs with this team (OL, TE, RB to name a few).

And if you look at the stats, is T.J. really the answer for the Eagles?

Next September he will be 32 years old. The Eagles have rarely been known to favor players 30+ in age.
Since the 2004 season (and yes I am aware that Ryan Fitzpatrick was his QB this season) T.J.'s YPC average has decreased each season.
Over the past three seasons his yards per game average has decreased each season.
Only once has he had a season of collecting double digit touchdowns.

Again, Houshmandzadeh is a nice player, but at this point in his career is he any better than Curtis or Jackson? Does he have a special niche like First Down-Avant? I would say no and no.

Boldin is the answer at WR, but I strongly doubt the Eagles have enough to land him. This is especially true since the Cowboys raised the trading price for WRs with their idiotic deal for Roy Williams.

You wanna target a top-level UFA, go after Julius Peppers.

Philadelphia Eagles' Offseason Wish List

chris klinkner — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:14:00 -0500

Last Sunday's loss is still a painful topic with this fan, but I guess it's time to move on.

In previous seasons, when the Eagles have come up short, they have shown some willingness to correct their wrongs. After the Tampa Bay loss, they realized the need to get younger and depend less on aging veterans at key positions. After the Carolina loss, they realized that they really did have garbage at the WR position. Insert T.O., hello Super Bowl.

What do the Eagles need to do following yet another NFC Championship Game loss? I am thinking...

Offensive Line (specifically OT): Runyan and Thomas are too old to be the answer. Unfortunately because of poor drafting at least one of these old guys is coming back next season. Can Andrews or Herremans move to the outside, with Cole or Maxie stepping in as a starter at Guard?
Running Back: The NFL way is a two-back system. Unfortunately for the Eagles, they have difficulty even using one back. To get the most out of the aging Westbrook, the Eagles did a young back to compliment him and also groom for the future.
Tight End: L.J. Smith should now finally be gone. Celek showed promise as a receiving TE during the playoffs. Even if Celek is the starter, the Eagles did to bring in a TE whose strength is blocking.
Full Back: I love Klecko's heart, but to maximize the running game, we need a FB who is a true FB. Someone who is a natural lead blocker for the run game and can also run and catch if called upon.
Safety: Mikell is a stud and I would be shocked if Dawkins isn't given a new deal. I am still not yet sold on Demps as the future. Bring in some competition to push Demps.

Philadelphia Eagles: The Worst Draft Pick

chris klinkner — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 19:09:00 -0500

Matt McCoy, Reggie Brown, Kevin Kolb, Jerome McDougle, and Tony Hunt. You say bust? I say you are damn right.

Sure, all these picks sucked, but lucky enough for the Eagles, they weren't deadly picks. There were always backup players that softened their shortcomings.

The same can not be said of the 39th pick in the 2006 draft—Mr. Six Sacks to Osi Umenyiora. The one, the only, Winston Justice. The reason why the Eagles are now screwed.

We keep screaming for the Eagles to run the ball. The aging Runyan and Thomas are the main reasons why the Eagles' rushing attack is mediocre. They are old—their bodies worn down. They no longer have the push or acceleration needed to open holes for the running game. They have become pure pass-blocking tackles.

Both may be back next season, eating away at valuable cap space . The backup plan was Winston Justice, but now there is no backup plan. With the 21st and 28th picks in this upcoming draft, finding a starting tackle is going to be a longshot.

Fans can wish for a running game. We can wish even harder for the Eagles to draft a first round running back. However, if the Eagles weren't going to use a running back (Buckhalter) that averaged 4.9 yards per carry and 12.5 yards per reception, they aren't going to use a rookie runner. Not to mention, the rookie will probably be a blocking liability.

Thanks Winston for sucking!

McNabb's 12 Days Of Christmas

chris klinkner — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 06:52:33 -0500

McNabb...a good man, a top QB, one of Philadelphia's finest. Donovan deserves some good fortune this holiday season...

A real BIG middle finger: For the idiots who booed McNabb on draft day to the idiots who are now calling for the end of McNabb era in Philadelphia.
A Vasectomy: No more babies, no more worrying, no more bad stretches of play.
A Healthy B-West: As Westbrook goes, so goes the success of McNabb now.
NFL Rule Book: What other rules doesn't No. 5 know about?
Time Machine: Let's replay the 2001-2003 seasons, but this time with some real WRs; Let's get along with T.O. following the 2004 season.
For Reid to grow a pair: You got something to say, say it to Donovan's face.
Make each half 28 minutes long: Less time to struggle in the clutch.
T.J. Houshmandzadeh next season: The man is an UFA and why would he want to return to the Bengals.
A Hammer: He needs something to break that tunnel vision...not everyone in Philly hates you Donovan.
Kolb to be Kolb: Please keep chucking them to the other team.
DeMarcus Ware to get hurt this weekend: I wont miss, and Donovan won't miss him on December 28.
Speech lessons from Chase Utley: No team is hotter right now, could the Eagles make it back-to-back World F-ing Champions.
Bonus: A guaranteed return to the Eagles in 2009: Ok, this one's for me.

Andy Reid's 12 Days Of Christmas

chris klinkner — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 23:36:14 -0500

Even though he has been more naughty than nice this season...tis the season to spoil the Big Guy with some gifts.

1. Robitussin Cough Syrup - should help with the throat clearing

2. Black Tights / Spandex - T.O. was promised a spandex show after 15 TDs, why not Westbrook this season?!?

3. AM/FM Walkman - Merrill Reese and Mike Quick can help with those red flag challenges

4. Digital Watch - Monday night's first half end was only the latest example

5. Mel Kiper Jr's Draft Guide - no where does it say to trade away another first round pick

6. SI's Phillies Championship Package - this is what a champion looks like

7. Making Marriage Work For Dummies Book - time to mend that McNabb relationship

8. Wall Street Journal Suscription - investing $4.5 million in L.J. Smith is not a wise investment

9. A Fullback - Christmas may have come early with Kyle Eckel

10. Sean Considine's Blackmail Pictures - now there is no reason not to cut Considine
11. A Plunger - someone please remove Howard Eskin's lips from Reid's ass
12. A Vikings Win on Sunday - OK this one is for me!

www.bleedeaglesgreen.com

Philadelphia Eagles: The New Trendy Pick?

chris klinkner — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 12:15:34 -0500

In this NFL, all it takes is two games.

Two games prior, you are the bums of the NFL.

The national media is calling your leader the worst coach in the NFL and putting the franchise player on the sideline to rot.

Two games later, the coach is now a late-season genius, and the QB is setting himself up for a sweet offseason deal.

Remember how dreary the Eagles' outlook was after the Ravens game? Things were desperately bleak, but you would never know listening to the latest buzz surrounding the Eagles now. They are everyone's new darlings. They are the 2007 Giants, getting hot at the right time and then the sky is the limit come playoff time.

All this Eagles' love reminds me of the Jets—of two weeks ago! The Jets had just beaten the Patriots and the Titans. An all-New York Super Bowl was surly guaranteed. Favre was the MVP of the NFL and the Packers were morons for not wanting Favre back. Teammates were oozing compliments about the confidence and leadership that Favre brings to the huddle.

Fast forward to today. The Jets have lost two straight, Favre is an old geezer, teammates are bickering about Favre, and Eric Mangini should be fired the second the clock hits zero on the season. Sounds like the Eagles of two weeks ago.

My point—enjoy the moment. Don't go worrying about the offseason yet. Enjoy this latest Eagles run. Before you blink it could be all gone.

www.bleedeaglesgreen.com

Philadelphia Eagles' Window Is Closed: Thanks for the Memories

chris klinkner — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 12:44:31 -0500

It was one hell of a run. A big thank you to Reid and McNabb for turning this Eagles franchise around.

We will always have the memories. Myself, I actually got the chance to attend three NFC Championship games, including the Super Bowl appearance clincher. But now we must say goodbye. The ride is over. We are moving backwards. The Eagles are no longer an elite team.

What is the point of hoping for the playoffs? The Eagles aren't on the level of the Giants or the Panthers. It would just be one and done. Enough teasing us; it's time to blow this thing up.

Changes need to be made. "We gotta keep firing." Right on, Reid. Now which one of you gets fired? Is it Reid or is it McNabb? Or is it both? Mr. Pedal to the Metal, it's your call. The Eagles' franchise has become a joke and hated in the city. Yes, Mr. Lurie, it was you (not Biden) that we were booing last weekend.

The Phillies are the Gold Standard in this city. Despite it being football season, the Phillies remain the focus of the Philly sports fan. Hell, the Phillies were even able to announce a raise in ticket prices with zero backlash. What happens if the 'Sixers or Flyers follow the Phillies lead...Are we back to the days of the Kotite Eagles?

The one positive from today, at least this wasn't a home game. Can you imagine the boos echoing throughout the Linc? And give the Eagles credit for making the Cardinals game a black-out game (fans encouraged to wear black). A perfect funeral setting for the Reid/McNabb era.

Thanks for the memories.

bleedeaglesgreen

DeSean Jackson: The New Brian Westbrook

chris klinkner — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 14:02:50 -0500

Oh, 2,104 yards, where have you gone?

This year hasn't been 2007 for Brian Westbrook. He is in the bottom third of rushing leaders, can't seem to avoid the injury bug, and has disappeared in games when he is needed most. But the man does have something upstairs: He was very smart to get that extension signed in the off-season. A Villanova education; priceless!

There is still time for 'B-West' to save his season and do a New York Giants punt return on the Eagles 2008 season. I wouldn't doubt him. But just in case B-West doesn't return to being B-West, well, it's nice to have rookie wide receiver DeSean Jackson.

There have been some "rookie" moments for DeSean this season, but overall you just gotta say "Wow!".

The kid is everywhere. First it was back-to-back 100 yard receiving games. Then it was returning a punt for six points. And now it is being a weapon in the backfield. Running the reverse, lining up in the wildcat formation; the kid is a blazer in the backfield.

In nine games Jackson has collected 973 yards from scrimmage. Not quite B-West of 2007, but pretty phenomenal for a second round draft pick out of California.

So maybe tomorrow is the week that Westbrook gets rolling and finally stays rolling (the Bengals run defense does suck).

The Eagles need a heavy dose of Westbrook and Buckhalter tomorrow, getting the RBs and the OL confident in the run game.

Give the defense a breather with time eating drives. A rested defense means one that can stop the run.

Use this game as a momentum builder, show the other teams that the Eagles too can play smash-mouth NFC East football.

A healthy #36, with the continued growth of #10 could actually equal five or six wins down the stretch.

Tomorrow the Eagles get the first of those five or six.

Eagles 30 Bengals 17

www.bleedeaglesgreen.com

Donovan McNabb To Get an Early Start on the Cincinnati Bengals? (Humor)

chris klinkner — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 07:03:39 -0500

The report was that McNabb missed practice yesterday. I instantly thought, "Good for the Eagles, again thinking outside the box."

First there was the touchdown pass to Todd Herremans in the Seattle game. Then on Sunday night there was DeSean Jackson in the wildcat formation, taking it in for six. Big Andy, getting all creative on us.

Is such creativity continuing for the Bengals' game? Was McNabb absent from practice so he could fly early to Cincinnati?

An early arrival would allow No. 5 to begin throwing days early, allow him to sort out his throwing mechanics. And when the first quarter rolls around, Donovan will actually be ready to roll, not having to waiting one-and-a-half quarters to find his rhythm. Passes would hit the WRs in the hands, not sail over their heads or land 10 yards short.

Oh wait, it turns out that McNabb is still in Philly and missed practice because of personal reasons. Damn.

(Register to win a free Phillies World Series T-Shirt...Click Here)

Philadelphia Eagles Are Missing That 2004 Swagger

chris klinkner — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 23:58:11 -0500

Remember the 2004 season? Sure, the Super Bowl was nice, but what I enjoyed most was the swagger that the team had. The team knew going into each and every game that they were going to win. There was no "any give Sunday" with the 2004 team. The team was confident, but not cocky, in their abilities. The team's confidence in turn carried over to the fans.

How great were Sundays back then. Every time you turned on the TV you knew a win was coming. Oh, the good old days.

Maybe it's just me, but I am not even 100 percent confident that the Eagles are going to beat the Bengals this weekend. That's right, the lowly 1-8 Bengals. My buddy came up to me yesterday and asked if he should start Cedric Benson on his fantasy team this week. Sadly, I wasn't able to confidently say that the Eagles' D would be able to shut him down.

When talking about the Eagles recent struggles, people continue to compare this team to the 2007 Giants. We hear, just look at the G-Men from last year, they had a slow start and then bang, Super Bowl Champs. Nice theory, but the Eagles aren't the G-Men of 2007.

The Giants were dominant in one of the most important areas, they had an unstoppable pass rush. A quick look at the current Eagles and I see no areas of the team that could be labeled as dominant. There may be some very good areas, but nothing great. Even the Eagles all-word secondary has shown cracks.

Back to the 2004 team. Remember how they would just let their play do their talking. Not this year's squad. Like last year we are again hearing players saying the team is better than their 5-4 record. Sorry guys, you are what your record says you are.

You win by playing the full 60 minutes. Not by starting slow or crumbling in the clutch. You win by being confident in each other and in the plays being called by the coaches. You don't go all Monday-morning QB on your coach the day or week after, saying that you want the ball in the clutch or that there needs to be more commitment to certain plays.

Again, all this rambling could be for naught if the Eagles close the season 5-2 or 6-1. But without that swagger of years past, such a feat is going to be difficult to accomplish.

Was Andy Reid's Extension the Right Decision for the Philadelphia Eagles?

chris klinkner — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 02:49:56 -0500

It might be painful for some, but flash back to Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2004. On this momentous day in Eagles history, one Andrew Walter Reid signed a four-year contract extension, making him the Eagles' coach through the 2010 season. Reid originally signed a six-year deal in June 2001. The extension pays Reid slightly more than $4 million per season.

So, after some quick calculations, one sees that Reid's original deal would have run out following the 2006 season. If you look at the date (Sept. 8), you also realize the extension was given to Reid prior to the Eagles reaching the Super Bowl.

Before the 2004 season, Reid's greatest accomplishment was repeated trips to the NFC Championship game. Such a feat is nothing to laugh at or ignore, but did it really signal the need to keep the guy around until 2010?

Would all of our complaining this year have been a moot point had the Eagles not gotten an itchy trigger finger and jumped the gun on an extension for Reid? Would the Eagles have been better advised to wait a bit on the extension or a least minimize its length?

Since 2004, the Eagles have gradually fallen from the group of elite NFL teams. Two of the following three seasons, the Eagles have missed the playoffs. This year is going to be another struggle just to secure the final wild-card spot.

The main reason being thrown around for not firing Reid is his guaranteed contract and money. It's easy to play "Monday morning QB" after the fact, but the Eagles might have been wise to rethink their strategy with Reid's contract.

Or maybe the wisest decision is IF the Eagles miss the playoffs again this season, for the Eagles to eat the guaranteed money.

When does a team's perception in the city, with fans, and in the marketing and sponsorship piggy bank begin to outweigh $8-10 million in contractual obligations?

Unlike before, there is now some serious competition in the city for the fan's dollar...the World Champion Phillies.

bleedeaglesgreen

Could Have Had Jacobs!

chris klinkner — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:08:26 -0500

Please look away if you are offended by Reid bashing. I do not want to offend his few remaining fans in this city. But it is just becoming so easy to criticize the Big Guy. And this latest criticism again ties into the Giants game, just not how you would think.

There really is no need to continue questioning Reid's play calls, game management, etc...from Sunday's game. The Eagles lost, and it's time to move on before the season is totally wasted. I want more than a lousy playoff berth, but in the end I would be happy to see the Eagles playing any January games after missing out on the party last year.Time to focus on the Bengals. Can you imagine the attacks if the Eagles would lose to those bums? But it won't happen, it can't happen.

OK back to the point, the criticism. What was the biggest uproar from fans following the Giants game? I saw it as the Eagles inability to stop the run and having to watch a back like Jacobs shred our D, while the Eagles couldn't eek out three yards in crunch time. If we only had a Jacobs of our own.

Sadly, we could have had a back like Jacobs. Scratch that...we could of had the real Brandon Jacobs!

Flashback to the 2005 NFL draft. A quick review and you see that Jacobs was drafted no. 110 by the G-Men. Prior to that selection the Eagles had five draft picks, meaning five times they passed on drafting the big back they always needed!

Who did the Eagles select ahead of Jacobs? Mike Patterson (good pick), Reggie Brown (continues to get worse), Matt McCoy (his greatest headline was being arrested for a DUI this season), Ryan Moats (couldn't even beat out Booker), and Sean Considine (not even worth a comment).

Yea the draft is a hit and miss business. But man did the Eagles really blow this one. Oh yea, the Eagles also passed on drafting Marion Barber (pick no. 109).

Should Correll Buckhalter Be Running More?

chris klinkner — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:56:30 -0500

The running woes of the Eagles have been well documented this season. And the short yardage woes have been VERY well documented this season.

As it stands now the Eagles are ranked 22nd in the league in rushing yards per game. They are averaging slightly over 98 yards a game on the ground. When it is third and short or fourth and short their ranking dips even lower.

The obvious answer is that the Eagles need a big back, like a Brandon Jacobs. Unfortunately for the 2008 season the Eagles aren't getting a big back. They, we, are stuck with what we got. And what we have is Westbrook and Buckhalter. Why even mention Booker?!?

When discussing Westbrook the first question should be what's up with him lately? Is he still bothered by injury? Is he worn down from excessive use last year? Or he is the Eagles only offensive weapon and because of that all defensive game plans are designed to take him out of the game. Probably a little bit of each.

Is the answer to making B-West more effective more of Buckhalter? Does a different back, a different look, shake up the opposing D? And doesn't Buckhalters' on the field performance warrant more touches. Last night he was actually able to move the ball on the Giants D.

Sadly, he was only given two touches. Buck is a weapon running and receiving and he needs to be involved more in this offense.

Or are the Eagles screwed because their offensive line is built more to pass protect than to run block? Would even Brandon Jacobs be wasted with this offensive line?

Maybe the answer is more No. 5 running the ball. The Eagles need to find improvement somewhere. Teams unable to run the ball aren't playoff caliber and can't compete in the run heavy NFC East. We have seven games left for Reid this fix this mess.

Philadelphia Eagles: It Ain't Over...Yet (I hope)

chris klinkner — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 07:39:32 -0500

So for the better part of today, the Eagles have received non-stop bashing. From myself to countless other bloggers, so-called experts, and former players, the verdict of the day is that Reid is an idiot. Is the criticism of Reid and the team deserved? The popular opinion points to an overwhelming, emphatic YES.

With the Phillies season over, the Flyers and Sixers still early into marathon seasons, the Eagles have our full attention for the next two months. So despite last night's performance, we gotta find some positives, otherwise these next two months are going to be maddening. Any positive buzz in the city generated from the Phillies run is going to be flushed right down the toilet.

The Eagles sit at 5-4. Despite occupying the basement of the NFC East, the Eagles find themselves only a game back of the conference's final playoff spot. Have the Eagles dug themselves a hole with their 0-3 division and 4-4 conference record? No doubt, but it is not an insurmountable deficit.

Thankfully for the Eagles the teams ahead of them in the playoff picture are still on the upcoming schedule. Arizona, Dallas, and the Redskins. Can the Eagles beat these teams? Based on what we saw last night it could be difficult, but parity rules and there is always the "any given Sunday" theory!

Despite the criticism that Reid is receiving today, I think in the end he deserves to play-out the next two months. His November/December record proves that he is the man this time of year. Could he be losing his magic, has the league figured him out...the next seven weeks will give us the answer.

So despite being royally ticked off today, I am not ready to give up on the season. I love the Eagles too much to think that our season is over in November. There are still positive things that make me believe that this team can still contend even if those things are currently being overshadowed by last night's blunders.

seven weeks to go. Can the Eagles go 5-1 or 4-2? Call it stupid or foolish optimism, but I think they can. If not, well even us die-hards will finally need to come to the realization that this team, this coaching regime might have finally run their course.

Batteries Not Included: Why Andy Reid Isn't Capable of Using His Headset

chris klinkner — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 03:40:04 -0500

Check the local newspaper ad. Five bucks, ear buds included, batteries sold separately. I am of course talking about your old, run of the mill, AM/FM walkman. And I think someone should buy Andy Reid one. Or maybe Reid can cash in on Rite Aid's sponsorship of the team and get one for free.

The next time that Reid is unsure of when to use the red challenge flag he can simply power on the walkman and the answer is there. AM broadcast not coming in too clear, no problem the game is also on FM. It couldn't be easier for the big guy.

It's obvious the big fancy head-set isn't working. It's obvious that whoever is telling Reid when to challenge a play is clueless. But thankfully there is Merrill Reese and Mike Quick. When I am at the game and there is a questionable call I just look over to my dad (who is listening to the broadcast) and ask what Merrill is saying. And no surprise, Merrill is usually spot on.

But such an option would never fly with the big guy. It would involve Reid admitting that he isn't the God of the NFL, isn't Mr. Know-It-All. Is there even a guy upstairs telling Reid when to use the red flag? If there is , shouldn't that guy be fired by now? Oh wait, that would involve someone in the organization being held accountable for their ineptness and we all know that doesn't happen with the Eagles.

Don't like the radio idea, how about phone a friend? There were about 40,000 of us at the Linc last night just waiting to lend a helping hand.

Oh well, I think I will go put on my Phillies World Series Championship T-Shirt to cheer myself up!

Philadelphia Eagles Fans Are Without Confidence

chris klinkner — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 02:01:28 -0500

I couldn't of been the only one thinking it.

First half, 10 seconds remaining, the Eagles not yet ready to settle for a field goal. How many of us were sitting there thinking that the Eagles were going to blow this opportunity for points? How many of us were thinking that the Eagles were going to do something stupid and the clock would expire with the Eagles getting zero points?

Things ended up working out OK...No touchdown, but a successful field goal attempt.

How sad is this team, this QB, and this coach that our first instinct is for the worst to happen? We have been screwed so often that we have become conditioned to think that a screw-up is inevitable. Is this the sign of a team that is championship caliber? Do you think that Giant fans think this way of Eli and their offense? I don't.

And tell me didn't that same dreadful feeling overcome you again when the Eagles had the ball in the fourth quarter, down by five points? How many of us had confidence in Reid and McNabb to lead a fourth quarter, come-from-behind win? Not me. I knew one of them would screw it up. And of course they did not disappoint.

McNabb threw an interception that was thankfully overturned because of a penalty. A second chance, maybe the Eagles can cash in. Reid and his dreadful play calling made sure that didn't happen. I guess Reid missed the first three-and-a-half quarters of the Eagles being unable to run the ball or managed to forget the short-yardage debacle at Chicago. We fans didn't because, we were again watching the same stupidity.

No worries. Reid said in his press conference that he needs to again do a better job. We can trust him, right?!?

bleedeaglesgreen

Philadelphia Eagles Were Close, But Who Cares?

chris klinkner — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 01:59:42 -0500

Tonight, we got a chance to see champions. Unfortunately for Eagle fans, the champions were the honorary captains at the coin toss (Hamels and Burrell) and the team with NY on their helmets. I take zero joy from tonight's game. Taking pride in playing our competition close is for losers.

At this point, we can kiss thoughts of an NFC East title goodbye. We are now left to battle out a bunch of mediocre teams for a road playoff game. Excuse me if I don't see this Eagles team repeating the Giants' road playoff success of last year.

Am I surprised that the Eagles lost tonight? I actually am. I thought the Eagles would rise to the occasion and leave the Linc with a W. Instead, the Eagles now sit slightly above the line of mediocrity and sport an 0-3 division record.

Am I surprised how the Eagles lost tonight? Not one bit. Outside of a few "smoke and mirror" plays, the offense again started out slow. Donovan again looked more like a rookie QB than a 10-year vet for the first one-and-a-half quarters. Reid again showed poor clock and red-flag management. And most importantly the Eagles were beaten soundly on the offensive and defensive lines.

The Giants' third string running back out rushed B-West tonight. McNabb ended the game as the Eagles leading rusher. Not good. But despite all of this the Eagles had a chance with two minutes left in the fourth quarter to pull out a victory. Well, that was until they had to convert 3rd-and-3 and 4th-and-1. No shocker that the Eagles failed.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Eagles' run D was absolutely pathetic. The Giants controlled the clock while banging out 200+ yards on the ground. The Giants ended the game gaining just under five yards a carry. That's a shocker to me, as it seemed every running play was good for at least seven or eight yards.

So, again, the Eagles lose another close one. But who cares if it was close. The end result was a loss. So much for riding the momentum of the Phillies success. Lurie deserved the boos he got at the Linc tonight!

bleedeaglesgreen

Philadelphia Eagles' Halfway Optimism

chris klinkner — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:18:00 -0500

The Eagles have reached the halfway point of their season. They stand at 5-3. Even the most optimistic of fans couldn't have predicted anything better than a 6-2 record at this point. 5-3, I'll take it.

Three of the four NFC East teams have three defeats. The Eagles are 0-2 in their conference, but have yet to play the division leading Giants, making Sunday's game even more important. A win on Sunday gives the Eagles their first conference win and pulls them within one game of the division lead (or the pessimist could say 0-3 here we come!).

Is there room for improvement with these Eagles...absolutely! Despite again being a top-10 unit, the offense is incredibly inconsistent to the point of madness.

McNabb, at times (see first quarter of Seattle game), looks like he is just learning the offense (not good for his 10th year in the system). But at other times, McNabb looks like an All-Pro—his old scrambling self. I am not saying he has to be perfect for this team to win, but he cannot continue to start games with multiple three-and-out series.

The running game is difficult to gage at this point because of the multiple injuries suffered to Westbrook. Between Westbrook and Buckhalter, the talent is there to be one of the league's best backfields.

Westbrook needs to stay healthy, and Reid needs to find more ways to involve Buckhalter in the offense. A team that ranks 23rd in the NFL in rushing yards per game is not going to get it done. At this point, we can consider the Booker experiment a bust.

For all the complaining we did this offseason about the WRs, you would have to admit that as a group they have exceeded all expectations. This isn't to say that the team wouldn't be better with a true No. 1 WR option, but as a group, there are few better.

DeSean is on pace to exceed 1,000 yards receiving (though with Curtis and Brown healthy, it will be difficult to maintain the first-half numbers). Curtis showed on Sunday that he is fully recovered from his sports-hernia injury.

And the group of Brown, Avant, Baskett, and Lewis can be counted on as a group to give you five to seven catches a game, for a nice YPC average, and maybe a surprise TD. Hell, maybe the fade to Baskett in the end zone can be the solution to red-zone woes.

The OL has been good, not great, to this point. Thomas and Runyan have been their old steady selves. Though this year we are seeing more instances where the TE is staying in to block, helping out the tackles. Andrews is missed and might be the easy answer to why the Eagles struggle so much on short-yardage downs. But at the same time, Maxie hasn't killed the Eagles as a substitute. Maxie is your average guard, who at times will show flashes of being able to raise his game.

Todd Herremans, again nothing overly spectacular, nothing horrific, but who knew he had such great hands. In short, an average year for the group who needed to QUICKLY figure out how to use their massive size to solve the short-yardage woes.

The TE position...well, at least we got one good game from the group. L.J. Smith has been his usual inconsistent self, spending more time again on the sidelines than on the field.

When on the field, he will show an occasional clutch play, but all too often we instead remember him for a gaffe. But Reid loves him, thinks he is an All-Pro...So what is the point of complaining. Celek showed he deserves more looks after his performance against Seattle. Will he get these looks? Probably not. But at least the future (next year or the next L.J. injury) looks promising (and cheaper!) at TE.

Defense tomorrow.........

Don't Let Brian Westbrook Suffer the Same Fate as Andy Reid

chris klinkner — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:02:00 -0400

They don't love the big guy, but they don't hate him either. Kinda like the Eagle fan base.

There was a recent poll done by the University of Penn. asking NFL players which active NFL head coach they would most like to play for. And out of the 32 coaches, Andy Reid finished just outside of the top ten, placing 12th.

Ahead of Reid were: Dungy, Smith, Belichick, Edwards, Tomlin, Phillips, Shanahan, Lewis, Fisher, Holmgren, and Billick (poll done during 2007 season).

To avoid a similar poor showing, it's still not too late to vote for Brian Westbrook as the FedEx Ground Player of the Week. Just click here. Maybe this is the first step to the Eagles duplicating the Phillies success!