Eagles vs. Redskins: 4 2nd Half Keys to Victory for Philly

The Eagles dominated the first half, but failed to suffocate the Redskins' comeback hopes by giving up a late field goal.

Can the Eagles avoid yet another late collapse?  Here are four keys to victory:

1. Keep the Redskins' Defense on Its Toes 

 Redskins' D-Coordinator Jim Haslett must have had a simple message for his defense: don't let Michael Vick beat you with his legs.  And by and large, essentially from the outset, that plan has backfired.  It's no big secret that the Eagles have an impressive array of weapons in their offensive arsenal, but from the looks of things so far, it would appear that nobody told Washington.

To ensure Washington has no opportunity to get back in this game, Philly must stick with a game plan that has made the embattled Andy Reid look like a genius through 30 minutes.  

2. Keep Feeding LeSean McCoy

McCoy has been great and the air game has been efficient—pretty much every facet of the Eagles' offense has been clicking except the Vick ground attack.  The best part about it is that Vick hasn't been forced to put the game into his own hands.  McCoy has been effective enough to keep the Redskins' defense honest.  That balance is essential for maintaining this lead.  

3. Take Advantage of the Redskins' Boneheaded Play

Before the Redskins had a chance to get a drive going, momentum-killing penalties altered the course of the game.  Roughing the passer and unnecessary roughness flags are indicative of excessive zeal and truculence.  

Meanwhile, the Eagles have been exemplars of imperturbable calm.  This undaunted poise is essential to avoid another second half letdown.  

4. Score on the First Drive of the Second Half

Eagles' fans know what the deal is.  This team is 1-4 and have failed to live up to mammoth expectations.  Against both the Bills and the 49ers, they allowed themselves to get complacent and left the door open for a comeback.

An early score out of the locker room will go a long way towards keeping the momentum on their sideline and putting the game on ice.