Close Call for Patriots Against Strong Eagles Performance

The undefeated Patriots had a small scare last night as the Eagles gave them one of their toughest games of the season.

Indianapolis was the only other team that threatened New England's undefeated record.

Without starting quarterback Donovan McNabb, back A.J. Feeley got the start and had an outstanding game.

Feeley threw three touchdowns for 345 yards, but had two interceptions.

The last pass Feeley threw turned out to be the game sealing interception as Asante Samuel caught it late in the fourth quarter.

Samuel caught two of the three interceptions Feeley threw, one of which he returned for a touchdown in the opening drive.

The Eagles offensive line did an exceptional job throughout the game by protecting Feeley. That same offensive line also exposed New England's lack of athleticism in the middle.

The Eagles came into this game with confidence, scoring twenty one first-half points—the most New England's given up in a half this season.

The Pats, now 11-0, had their best receiver, Randy Moss, pretty much shutdown by Lito Sheppard. He was held to only five catches for forty-three yards and didn't catch a singe ball in the second half.

Moss' shutdown gave Wes Welker the opportunity to have a career night, with 13 receptions for 149 yards. Both were career highs for the Pats second best receiver.

Jabar Gaffney also had a decent game with 87 receiving yards and a touchdown.

Tom Brady threw for only one touchdown, which was a season low for him and the first time he didn't throw at least three touchdowns in a game this year. He did throw for 380 yards though. Brady was pressured a number of times and took some big hits from the Eagles defense.

The Pats had a period in which they struggled in the second half.

A play that looked like a touchdown for Moss was called off because of offensive pass interference. That led kicker Stephen Gostkowski to attempt a 32-yard field goal, which he missed.

But once again in the fourth quarter Tom Brady came through. He led the team down the field for a 69-yard drive, which led to Laurence Maroney running in the game winning touchdown.

Were the Pats exposed last night?

Of course not.

Although McNabb was unable to play, this is the second time a backup quarterback has showed better skill and leadership.

Last season it was Jeff Garcia who lead them to the playoffs when McNabb went down with a torn ACL.

It is time for Philly to part ways with McNabb?

That's a question for another time...