Eagles-Vikings Preview

Man, this week has really flown by. Less than 24 hours from now the Eagles will take the field to battle the Vikings. The game WILL be broadcast in Minnesota after the NFL granted the Vikings an extension. I’m still baffled that a playoff game could not be a sell out, but I also realize not all fans are as rabid or dedicated as Eagles fans.

There is news on the injury front too: Asante Samuel could be a scratch due to a strained hip, and mammoth defensive tackle Pat Williams will be a game-time decision. Other than that, both teams enter the game healthy, or as healthy as a team can be after 20 games.

This one has been tough for me to read. I think the Eagles are the better team, but I’m not confident the “good” Birds will show. We all know stopping the run on defense and staying with the run on offense will likely decide who comes out on top. However, I believe a few guys not named McNabb or Westbrook will play vital roles to an Eagles victory. Here they are:

Kevin Curtis – Curtis was a pleasant surprise in 2007, but his 2008 season has been derailed by injuries. With Antoine Winfield likely shadowing DeSean Jackson, Curtis should get plenty of chances to make some plays. He and McNabb lack the chemistry they shared a year ago, so the two must be on the same page tomorrow.

Correll Buckhalter – Buck never ceases to amaze me. The guy has survived three major knee injuries and looks faster and stronger than ever. The Vikings will make a concerted effort to limit Westbrook, so look for Buck to pick up the slack like he’s done all season. Let’s hope Reid gets him more than a few touches.

Chris Gocong – The third year linebacker has been one of the most improved Eagles. He appears to have finally settled into his SAM position and is making plays on a weekly basis. Gocong will have a full plate tomorrow: he’ll be asked to key on Adrian Peterson and cover tight end Visanthe Shiancoe. A big game from Gocong means a big day for the defense.

Sheldon Brown – Whether Samuel can go or not, Brown will be given the responsibility of covering speedster Bernard Berrian. Sheldon, with the exception of the Cleveland game, has been his normal steady self and is coming off a solid outing last week against Dallas. If the Vikings win, a huge Berrian catch may be the reason, so Brown must be on his game.

I would love to say I’m fully confident the Eagles will come away victorious, but I’d be lying. Donovan has never been “one and done” in the post-season. The Birds have the edge in experience. They have won pressure road games in the past. All these things point toward a good day for the guys in green. However, once I think I’ve figured out the 2008 Eagles, they prove me wrong. One thing is certain though. It will be a helluva game and I can’t wait to watch.