Eagle Eye Observations: Week 14

What a nutty Sunday nighter! By the way, that’s two wins in a row on NBC since the world pointed out that the Eagles suck on the peacock network. Lots to discuss from this one. Here’s another look from the Eagle Eye:

• What happened to the defense? 512 yards! I don’t know what to say except it was a total breakdown by pretty much everyone. Couldn’t stop the run, cover receivers or make open-field tackles. I thought getting Joselio and Akeem back was supposed to help? This is the worst they’ve looked since… gee, I dunno. Maybe that playoff loss to the Saints in January 2007? McDermott needs to get himself and his guys on the same page.

• Trotter played like he was young again. 9 total tackles and a near interception. He was on the field a bunch and very active. Although the aforementioned 512 yards tells me he wasn’t that great.

• The Vick playbook has been expanded, eh? That bullet he threw to DeSean was perfect. Nice job getting to the corner on the TD scamper too. He seems to have rediscovered his legs. Could be a major factor in upcoming games.

• Big Weave is the man! Tough running and a sweet 1-yard score. Reid really has gained trust in handing the ball to the big fella. I’ll say it again: Pro Bowl and new contract. Get it done.

• Trent Cole had a nice strip on Brandon Jacobs, but was shut down again by David Diehl. That being said, nobody plays harder than #58. Guy can punch too 😉

• Great effort by offensive line. McNabb had plenty of time to set up and survey the field. All those so-called big time pass rushers were non-factors.

• 31 offensive points on the road without Westy, Curtis and Maclin is mighty impressive. I’m still leery of a quick strike offense, but if defenses can’t stop them, who am I to quibble?

• The defense gave up 133 yards on the ground. Bad. They still haven’t allowed a 100-yard rusher. Good.

• Darren Howard had his second straight quality game. A pair of sacks and a forced fumble. Keep it up, Darren.

• Why the hell did they punt to Hixon at the end of the game? Dangerous decision not to pop that ball out of bounds. It’s apparent Sav is not fond of the directional kick.

• Mikell and Sheldon were horrible! Blown coverages and terrible tackling by both guys. Very uncharacteristic of these vets.

• Where would this team be without DeSean? Probably 6-7. Anyone out there still think the Birds need a #1 Wide Receiver?

• Losing Maclin to a torn plantar is huge. I doubt he plays the rest of the regular season. If Kevin Curtis is ready, he has to get his ass on the field.

• I’ll finish with the officials. It was quite possibly the worst officiated game I have ever had the misfortune of watching. The NFL cannot allow such a blind crew to call a key Sunday night divisional game. How do you not see obvious false starts? How do you not give the Eagles a FG attempt at the end of the first half? How do you call the McNabb pass a forward fumble and then blow the play dead? What a fu**ing joke!! These guys need to be docked a paycheck for being complete and utter morons.

Hey, they’re 9-4 and in first place. I hate to use a tired cliche, but they do control their own destiny. After such an emotional win, I would expect a letdown game against the Niners. However, San Fran plays tonight and then must travel East on a short week. Oh, and the Eagles can clinch a playoff berth with a win. That should provide them a little extra motivation, I hope.

Enjoy the win. The Birds are back where they belong. Atop the NFC East.

Be sure to read the FanSided Sports Blog for the best sports commentary, analysis and humor in the universe.