Eagles-Redskins Preview

It’s payback time for the Philadelphia Eagles. Back in Week 5 the Redskins fell behind 14-0 in the first quarter – due in large part to DeSean Jackson’s 68 yard punt return for a touchdown – but stormed back to score 23 points straight to nail down the victory. The Birds could not stop Clinton Portis who pounded them for 145 yards and a touchdown. Overall, the ‘Skins rushed for 203 yards and converted 11-19 third downs. On offense, Donovan McNabb was held without a touchdown pass, something that has happened only twice since. Brian Westbrook broke his ribs in the game but still gutted out 84 total yards and a touchdown.

On the whole, it was a lackluster and disappointing outing for the Eagles. What can we expect on Sunday? The Birds and ‘Skins are heading in opposite directions. Washington has lost five of six: the lone win came against the 3-11 Seahawks. Philly has won three straight by outscoring their opponents 98-44. Here’s some guys to keep your eye on come Sunday:

• Clinton Portis – Portis hasn’t scored since Week 7 and has rushed for a total of 132 yards in his last three contests. If the Eagles take Portis away, the Redskins will struggle to move the ball and score points. If they let him run wild, it will be another long day for the defense. Surprise, surprise, Portis is questionable with back spasms.

• Trent Cole – Redskins Pro Bowl tackle Chris Samuels is out for the season. That’s great news for Cole who has registered only one sack in seven games versus Samuels. Backup tackle Stephon Heyer will draw the assignment against Cole. Whoever wins this key battle could go a long way in deciding the outcome.

• Santana Moss – Moss was shut out by Pro Bowl corner Asante Samuel in the first meeting. Moss is super-quick and capable of making a big play on every snap, so Samuel and the rest of the Eagles’ secondary must keep him in check.

• DeSean Jackson – The rookie wide receiver/punt returner made his presence felt in the first meeting by taking a punt return the distance. However, he was quiet in the passing game catching 1 pass for 8 yards. The Eagles must get Jackson involved early, and I don’t mean in the stupid “Wildcat” formation either. How about a deep ball? When was the last time they tried that to the rookie? He must be factor with Curtis and Baskett out.

• DeAngelo Hall – The ex Falcon and Raider has played well since joining the ‘Skins. He has five interceptions on the season, but is susceptible to double-moves. Look for Andy Reid to dial-up some plays that will exploit Hall’s aggressive tendencies.

• Quintin Mikell – I don’t know how much Mikell’s exclusion from the Pro Bowl roster bothered him, but I expect him to play one of his best games of the year on Sunday. He might be asked to cover Chris Cooley on occasion, which will be a huge test.

The Redskins scare me. They always seem to make life difficult for the Eagles. At this point in the season, the Birds are playing at a much higher level. Attack the ‘Skins beat-up O-line and stuff Portis. If the Eagles accomplish these two things they will win. If they don’t, it will be very interesting.