After going 8-8 last season, the Philadelphia Eagles sat out the post-season. In 2008 they will be good but not good enough to succeed in the competitive NFC East.
In order to utilize head coach Andy Reid’s West Coast Offense, this team needs first-rate receivers and a prime quarterback. Do they have either?
Offense
Of late, Donovan McNabb has suffered through various injuries. The aging QB must stay healthy for the Eagles to notch a winning season. Philadelphia fields reliable but unspectacular receivers. The athletic Brian Westbrook, at running back, grabbed 90 passes for 771 yards and five touchdowns. He also made 279 carries for 1,333 yards and seven scores. Wideout Kevin Curtis, who had 77 receptions and six touchdowns, offers speed. The ground game, which includes the addition of the versatile Lorenzo Booker, is the best part of this offense. After allowing 37 sacks last season, the O-line must play tougher.
Defense
The Eagles sacked quarterbacks 49 times while being ranked seventh versus the ground attack. Every part of the D-squad is solid but none are over the top. Leading the club in tackles was LB Omar Gaither with 102. The secondary is aging and may have problems with deep routes.
Special Teams
This group is very weak. Aging place kicker David Akers will have to compete with rookie Richmond McGee for his spot. Also, accuracy was not punter Sav Rocco’s strong point. No one on the runback squad is dangerous.
Overview
This is a team that must start to rebuild. This season will most likely be a wake-up call for the Eagles. They will finish out of the money once again. The good news is that another poor season should motivate management to retool in a major manner.