Philadelphia Eagles' Michael Vick Gets Second Chance at First Impression

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid assured the sports world that quarterback Kevin Kolb is the team's prohibitive starter and Michael Vick would remain the backup.

As we all know, Reid had a change of heart last week. Going against the grain, Vick was named the starter for the remainder of the year.  Reid emphasized his decision had nothing to do with Kolb’s health, but more of how Vick was playing.  He suggested Vick is playing too well to leave him on the bench.

While addressing the media, Reid stated, "When someone is playing at the level Michael Vick is playing, you have to give him an opportunity," Reid said. "This isn't about Kevin Kolb’s play. You're talking about Michael Vick as one the best quarterbacks in the NFL right now."

Without question, Vick has come a long way.  He’s getting a second chance at life to make a first impression with a new team.

Last week, Vick showed flashes of his old greatness that made him the highest paid quarterback in the NFL in leading the Eagles to victory. Vick was 21 of 34 for 285 yards and two touchdowns against the Detroit Lions.  He also ran for 37 yards.

Yesterday, against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Vick continued to shine as he led the Eagles to a 28-3 win.  Vick completed 17 of 31 passes for 291 yards and three touchdowns.  He ran for another 30 yards and scored a touchdown on a 17-yard burst up the middle.

Vick’s life has come full circle. 

In 2007, Vick was incarcerated for funding a gambling ring and killing dogs.  Without question, Vick’s actions were in poor taste. His poor choices cost him money, fame, and his freedom.

Last year, after serving 18 months in prison, the Philadelphia Eagles were one of a few teams that showed interest in Vick.  The Eagles gave Vick that second chance he wanted.

Being mentored by former Indianapolis Colts head coach Tony Dungy surely helped Vick a lot.  Dungy is a man of principle and faith.  Being endorsed by a man that is well-respected helped Vick’s cause.

Last year, Vick rarely saw the field because Donovan McNabb was the starter and Kevin Kolb was the backup. 

Surprisingly, McNabb was traded in the offseason.  Kolb was given a contract extension and anointed as the Eagles quarterback for now—and the future. 

Kolb was ineffective in the season-opener against the Green Bay Packers.  He completed 5 of 10 passes for just 24 yards before suffering a concussion late in the first half.

Vick started the second half and he played very well. With his team losing 20-3, Vick rallied the team with his arm and legs.  Even though the Eagles eventually lost, 27-20, Vick clearly shined.  He passed for 175 yards and rushed for 103 more.

The way Vick played against the Packers and Lions left little doubt that he gives the Eagles the best chance to win.  His play essentially forced Reid to bench Kolb.

Reid stated, "His accelerated play was brilliant. This is what I think is right. He's back and maybe even a little better."

A segment of the Philadelphia faithful thought Reid should have stayed committed to Kolb.  Some suggest McNabb is with the Redskins in the same division because Kolb was the answer. 

Reid has been hammered for changing courses with his quarterbacks: Based on how Vick is playing thus far, how can anyone question Reid’s decision to start Vick?

Vick is now repaying the organization that granted him another opportunity at life.  The Eagles gave the ability to continue forward when most teams around the league stayed away.  Now Vick is showing his gratitude by taking maximum advantage of the second chance he’s gotten to shine.

I guess it is true: It is possible to get a second chance to make a first impression.

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