Bears vs. Eagles: How Michael Vick Will Deliver a Win on Monday Night

Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles had a great game against the Dallas Cowboys this week. They scored on their first six possessions and scored four of the six times inside the red zone.

With home-game wins against the Chicago Bears and Arizona Cardinals, the Eagles could improve their record to 5-4 going into the pivotal game with the New York Giants. With road-game losses to the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers, the Giants could fall to the same record. So in a few weeks a showdown for first place in the NFC East is a real possibility.

Given the awful start to the Eagles' season, it is surprising to be able to think about that possibility.

So Vick needs to keep things rolling against the Bears on Monday night.

Take What the Defense Gives Him

Last week the Cowboys were determined to limit long passes to DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. They knew that the Eagles have had difficulty scoring in the red zone. So by cutting off the deep threats, they would limit the offense considerably.

Vick and the Eagles' coaching staff reacted by getting moderate passes over the middle to Brent Celek. The tight end had seven receptions for 94 yards.

If the Bears take a similar approach to the Cowboys, then Vick needs to make Celek a frequent target.

Take Advantage of the Rookie Safety

The Bears have a stout defense. It is difficult to find a weakness. If there is one, it could be rookie safety Chris Conte.

Vick should give Conte a few things that might cause him some difficulties:

• Run forward a few steps, then back up and throw a pass.

• Get Jason Peters quickly outside to block Conte after a quick pass to Jackson or McCoy.

• Fake an end-around with Jason Avant, then actually run it the next series.

• Get into the rookie's head early in the game.

Get Rid of the Ball Quickly

The Bears will certainly come with a furious pass rush.

In the first few weeks of the season, Vick took too long to review his options, pick one and release the ball.  This resulted in numerous fumbles and interceptions. Against the Cowboys he made quick decisions and quick releases.

In the loss to the Buffalo Bills, Vick threw four interceptions. In the last two weeks of wins against the Redskins and Cowboys, there was only one interception in total.

He needs to continue making quick releases against the Bears to avoid sacks, turnovers or an injury.

Pass to the Fullback

Fullback Owen Schmitt has been used primarily as a pass blocker in recent weeks.

At a key point in the game, maybe in the red zone, Vick should call Schmitt's number if he sees a linebacker ready to blitz. Have Schmitt give the linebacker a quick hit to slow him down, then slide outside to catch a pass.

If there is deep double-coverage on Jackson and Maclin, Schmitt might find some nice running room.

Run, Mike, Run!

When the receivers are covered, when it looks like the Bears will get a stop, Vick needs to shine. Nothing can demoralize and wear out a defense more than chasing a quarterback scrambling for a first down.

But please, Mike, please! Either run out of bounds or use two hands to protect the ball if you are going to be hit.