23 Nov
Eagle Eye Observations: Week 11
Posted by: Scott Tunstall
I covered most of what I saw in last night’s recap, but there are a couple more developments I’d like touch on before we move on to the Redskins. Here it goes:
- Any coincidence that the Eagles had their best game on the ground with Stacy Andrews inactive? I’ve made it clear how much I loathe a guard rotation. Perhaps Reid finally figured out that it’s not very conducive to developing continuity. We all know Stacy is not ready to play this season. Again, he should be placed on IR because he offers little in the way of help to this team.
- The Trotter move back to the middle in the second half says more about Joe Mays inability to play than it does about Trot’s supposed improvement. He did seem more spry, but it’s apparent that McDermott has reached the bottom of his bag of tricks. Gocong and Mays can’t man the MIKE. The only healthy guy left is Trotter. Boy, Akeem can’t get back fast enough.
- Trent Cole is having his best year to date. He drew two holding penalties, induced an offsides, registered a sack straight up the gut and dominated against the run. He is one of the most complete defensive ends in the NFL and better get All-Pro consideration.
- I came away impressed with Dimitri Patterson. I recall him being pretty decent as a rookie with the Chiefs. Sure, he makes mistakes, but he appeared to be in the right place most of the night. Since Sheldon is still gimpy and Asante gets hurt every game, Patterson’s role could become vital to a playoff push.
- I think Macho Harris is definitely the answer to the kick returner problem. I kept waiting for him to break one. Unlike Maclin, Macho picks a lane and hits it hard. As long as he stays healthy, I think it’s his job to lose.
That’s all I got. Short and sweet. I’ll be curious to see the gameplan for Sunday. The ‘Skins boast the league’s top-rated pass defense and completely shut down the Cowboys. I say lean on Shady and Weaver once again. Great run blocking lines need repetition to develop their skills. They can’t get that after just one game of pounding the rock.
I’d like to believe Reid learned a lesson from last night’s win, but that’s wishful thinking on my part. Doing what makes the most sense has never been his strong suit.
