The highly anticipated return of Donovan McNabb was spoiled by a sloppy Sunday for the Philadelphia Eagles. A series of miscues gave the reigning NFC East champs their first lost of the season.
Green Bay Packers 16, Philadelphia Flock of Eagulls 13
Things were ugly for the Eagles right from the beginning. Their opening drive sputtered after an ill-conceived Flea Flicker resulted in a 10-yard penalty for intentional grounding.
Then after the Eagles defense forced a Green Bay punt, things got even uglier. Newly appointed punt returner Greg Lewis failed to signal for a fair catch, even though he was swarmed by defenders. A timely hit forced a fumble that tumbled all the way to the end zone, which was recovered by Green Bay for the first touchdown of the game. Actually, it was the Packers’ ONLY touchdown of the game.
Following the slow start, Philadelphia responded to tie up the game before half-time. They used a balanced offensive attack, something Philly fans aren’t accustomed to seeing.
But the effort was all for not, as things got even worse on special teams. After a few more bonehead plays, Greg Lewis was replaced as the punt returner. This move did not pay off, as J.R. Reed committed another fatal mistake late in the 4th quarter. With the game tied, and only a couple of minutes left…Reed attempted to field a punt amidst a sea of Green Bay defenders. The sad thing was…he had already called for a fair catch, and his effort could only have gained the Eagles a few meaningless yards of field position.
The play resulted in a fumble, which of course, Green Bay recovered. Instead of a potential game-winning drive, McNabb and the offense remained on the sideline to watch the game end with a 42-yard field goal.
Don’t Panic
Even though the Eagles didn’t play well in many areas, this was a game they should have won easily. This theme has been all too common over the past couple of seasons – they win the yardage battle, but costly mistakes keep opponents within striking distance.
All but 3 of Green Bay’s 16 points were scored off of turnovers (2 muffed punt returns, and 1 interception). It isn’t exactly how Andy Reid wanted the season to start, but it isn’t time to hit the panic button either.
Positive Thinking
Donovan McNabb is healthy – As expected, McNabb looked a little bit rusty after minimal pre-season action. Though he clearly isn’t at 100% physically, McNabb displayed the elusiveness that makes him an effective playmaker for Philly. Expect him to improve as the season continues.
Finally, some balance on offense – Things changed for the better last year when Andy Reid turned over the offensive play-calling duties. If and when the Eagles find rhythm in the passing game, the solid running attack we saw today should carry them a long way towards another division championship.
This young defensive unit may be better than we thought – OK, maybe Green Bay isn’t the ultimate test for a defense…but still, the Eagles were impressive. They gave up some yards, but no major mistakes were made in pass coverage. Philly also did a good job of stopping the run, something they haven’t been particularly good at in recent times. Not too bad, considering how many personnel changes they have made on defense. A new linebacking crew of Omar Gaither, Takeo Spikes, and Chris Gocong could be just what the doctor ordered.
The Eagles look to bounce back next week against the Washington Redskins. If they can fix their problems on special teams (perhaps lining up without a punt returner)…they should have the edge.
Now on to the rest of Sunday’s action…
That’s Just Gross
Perhaps it’s overkill to bash Rex Grossman, but that never stopped me before. The Chicago Bears have a top-notch defense, a solid offensive line, an underrated receiving corps, and a talented running back. The erratic and unpredictable Grossman fits with this above-average team about as well as a piece of broccoli on John Madden’s dinner plate. Forget about today’s lackluster numbers (52% completion, 145 yards, 1 INT), Rex continues to make dangerous passes and bad decisions. Can this team make the Super Bowl again if they constantly have to make up for Grossman’s poor play?
Raider-Aid
The Raider Nation sure let me have it when I picked them to finish last in the AFC West. I’m not usually one to say “I told you so”, but someone please tell me…does their schedule get any easier than at home against Detroit? I’ll concede that the Raiders showed some signs of life on offense today, but they were playing against a team that won 3 games last year.
The Raiders are 0-1, and the race for the first overall draft pick continues.
Trading Places
Things are changing in Minnesota, as it took less than 1 quarter for Adrian Peterson to earn the starting running back job. Chester Taylor was injured early, and Peterson stepped in to deliver an incredible performance. He rushed for just over 100 yards, but his most impressive play came when he broke free for a touchdown on 60 yard pass play. It isn’t official yet, but with a performance like that…it looks like Chester Taylor will be spending more time in the back seat than Paris Hilton.
Not the Only Game in Town
Just about the same time that Oakland fans were starting to turn on their Raiders, Roger Federer was finishing off his 4th consecutive U.S. Open title. His 12th Grand Slam victory puts him just 2 shy of Pete Sampras’ record, which seemed unbreakable just a few years ago.
Congratulations to Federer, who continues to impress even those who dub him “The Greatest of All-Time”. The Great One fought off Novak Djokovic, a talented youngster from Serbia who beat Federer just a short time ago in Montreal. Despite winning in straight sets, the match was extremely close…evident by tie-breakers in each of the first two sets.
The difference in this battle was poise and patience. Djokovic was visibly (and audibly) frustrated after failing to finish off the world’s number one player in the 1st set. With his back against the wall on more than one occasion, Federer responded with brilliant returns and an unstoppable service game.
Throughout the tournament, Federer didn’t the play the best tennis of his career…but he still controlled each and every match. By now I should expect it, but Federer’s greatness never ceases to amaze me.
C'mon, honestly, what's the over/under on McNabb staying healthy for at least the first three weeks of the season this year? If it's good enough I might just take the bet.
The pic of Senator Dweeb is the hilight here.
Have him say "Hey!" to the Senator that knows Sammy Sos-er.
I had to stop watching the Pack game and switched to the Dolfish for awhile. Then back to watch the Pack. I cheer for the smaller market teams, cuz that's the way I roll!
Rex Grossman...it's time for the experiment to STOP. There's only so much the healthy Bears D can do. Mike Brown is back and the team is full strength. The offense is still weak.
Giants vs. Dallas turned into a track meet. Manning has a shoulder ow-ee. I had no idea who his backup was.
OK, I'm well aware of the knock on McNabb. Believe me, it ain't easy being an Eagles' fan. Broken ankle, torn up knee, and sports hernia. I still don't think he's injury prone. There isn't a whole lot of defense against those kind of injuries (not sure about the sports hernia). He doesn't have recurring hamstring problems, or chronic knee and back issues...like other athletes I would label as injury prone.
Of course, that could be my wishful thinking talking...who knows? I realize that since he doesn't give up on any play, it does make him more likely for an injury.
Just FYI, he has played in 9 or more games in each of his 8 seasons. I'll take the over on that bet.
I just find it funny that he was blasted so much for his knee injury. A lot QB's have knee injuries (ask Culpepper and Carson Palmer). He may take some risks by scrambling, but I'll take his leadership and play-making abilities any day of the week.
Husker, Kerry couldn't have done any worse than Greg Lewis did at fielding punts. I thought after the first fumble, maybe he would wake up and be a little more cautious. Wrong!
The Dolphins had a tough finish, I was also trying to watch that one towards the end.
Couldn't agree more about Grossman. I know people overstate the effect of a QB on the team, as they always the hero or the goat. But in their case, I think he truly hurts the team. The fact that they reached the Super Bowl despite his mediocre, if not awful, performance in the playoffs is proof that football is a team game.
At least they didn't have to go to the Bean Flicker.
That flea flicker may have been the worst I've ever seen. The toss back too McNabb was perfect, but then he got this strange look like "Oh ####, I have to throw this thing now."
After that, I was positive it was going to be a long day.
When is D. McNabb going to master the 5 to 10 yard pass? He is way more accurate throwing 50 yards. This has been an onging issue with him. I also think the Eagles were sorely unprepared for this game, lacked intensity, and continue to accrue may to mant stupid penalties. The special teams performance needs no further comments. Defense looked good, but on a few of those crazy Farve pass plays, the tackling was awful. Thanks for letting me vent.
Phillybill, great point about McNabb. The 1st team offense didn't play together much in pre-season, and it sure showed on Sunday. Like you said, they just looked unprepared.
McNabb and Westbrook failed to connect on several screen plays and short passes...something that should improve as Donovan shakes the rust off.
Efficiency in the short passing game is what made this offense so good in recent years, I'm not sure why they seem to abandon that style at times. Instead, they are attempting razzle dazzle on Flea Flickers and deep passes. The running game is there to give them some balance, it's time for them to realize it and get back to basics.
Nice recap, Shooter. The Eagles did wedge a lot of positives between their 'too many' negatives. The same can be said for the Bears.
McNabb's knee aint close to ready.
Still, tell ya what. How 'bout the Eagles ship McNabb to Chicago, and we'll ship Grossman to Philly. And no matter the result, we won't ask for a Grossman refund. Deal?
What's worst for the anti-Grossman crowd (of which I am a member) is Kansas City is Chicago's next opponent, a team the Bears should beat even if Grossman is subpar yet again, so he'll get yet another undeserved reprieve.
A second problem is that Griese, the Bears' backup, is interception prone, so I don't think he is the Bears 'to the Super Bowl' answer either. Unless Rexy somehow learns to channel Joe Montana, I look for the Bears to fall progressively off the Super Bowl pace as the season progresses. And if their vaunted defense ever becomes frustrated with Rex's bad play, it'll all be downhill from there.
Good luck to your Eagles.
I 'really' don't like Grossman. Can you tell?
P.S. Wow, the Cubs choking, the Sox in the tank, and the Bears stuck with a QB who would be better suited for the Pop Warner league, it's not a great time to be a Chicago sports fan.
Now that Grand Slam season is over, I can give a little attention to the NFL (though I still have hopes for Tiger baseball)!
And so I did; right after the trophy presentation! I flipped to watch the Lions Finish! And I mean Finish with a capital F, since they had a wee bit of trouble with that last year.
*Ahem* I'd like to thank the Raiders for passing up on Calvin Johnson.
Glad to see McNabb healthy; I hope he hs a great year! Still I'd take Kitna over him in FFL. :)
Thanks, MeanD. Despite the Eagles' loss, it was a great opening weekend for football. The off-season was an eternity.
McNabb can move OK, but you're right...he has a long way to 100%. He took some shots and fought off some pressure, and I cringed almost every time he dropped back.
I'll have to get back to you on that trade.
I agree about Griese, I don't think he's the answer either. The answer would have been to address this problem in the off-season. Several QB's were up for grabs - Culpepper, Schaub, David Carr...and several others that would be an upgrade over Rexy Boy.
And good luck to the Bears anyway. And I suppose the Cubbies, too.
too bad the Eagles let that one get away. They might need that win later. But I do think they'll be a contender this year, at least in the NFC. If McNabb can stay healthy, of course.
Re:the Bears, Raiders, and I'll throw the Browns in there-the more things change, the more they stay the same. Meaning the Bears will have to win is spite of Rex-I can't figure out why they haven't upgraded yet. I could be wrong, but he doesn't look like he's the answer there. As for the Raiders & Browns, they'll both be picking in the top 3 again, it appears.
Miracle, some things...you can always count on. Let's just hope Two Ton Tiffany doesn't end up on the cover of Playboy.
Ricko, definitely a win the Eagles could have used. They had a few of those early last year, so it shouldn't be too big a deal unless they make a habit of it.
The Browns looked pretty terrible...wonder who will emerge as the Sewer Serpent Colon Cobra Champion? Maybe the Raiders can earn that top pick, and choose another QB.
Apparently the Lions are going to win 10 games, so no need to worry about them.
Shooter B
For me to watch that game I can't say which was worse. Eagles v Packers or the Bears' Chargers' game. As both teams were woefully inept in their offensive executions.
Suffice to say that the allegedly better team came out with a win on the day ?
And you can't ask for anything more than that.
i have to get my bragging about a packers win out of the way real quick. for starters, it might be the only game they win all year. 2nd, i fear the league will step in and take the W away from us for stinking worse than rex grossman (although i've already learned he played great yesterday from some brilliant bears fans) and exceeding the "dumb luck" allowance clause in the NFLPA contract.
Man poor Eagles I was rooting for them but that damn fumble that took what seemed like forever for someone to recover was pretty fun to watch just to bad the Packers got it.
I can see Rex Grossman is in for a looong season! On the subject of sports hernias, as a personal trainer dude, I can tell you they're actually somewhat common, and if fixed properly, not a major ongoing concern. Consider me an Eagles fan by proxy: On account of my hatred for T.O., I'm in McNabb's corner.
Nice.
Didn't J.R. Reed play Carolina b'ball? Oh wait...
Like the Raider jab there... I recall the hate you were takin' on that other page.
Which happens first... Raiders sign Russell or Al Davis gets his teeth whitened?!
Tophat, it's the time of year where some teams aren't firing on all cylinders. Definitely makes a case for starters getting more action in preseason. But I suppose keeping superstars healthy is a primary concern, even if it means a shaky game or two to start the season.
Cuz...####, I was expecting you to drop by with a few shots. Actually, the Packers defense isn't too shabby. A lot different from the group we saw a couple of years ago that couldn't stop a cardboard cutout with a 90 MPH wind at their backs.
I have to leave Favre and the offense alone though, because the Eagles didn't exactly light it up either. That was one of those games that if true justice was served...both teams would take a loss.
Broncogirl, that was a painful play to watch. But I knew who had it long before they uncovered the pile. Inexcusable mistakes by anybody's standards. Shades of Leon Lett...
Lioness, Madden isn't exactly what I'd call "herbaceously inclined". Anybody that has to put extra legs on a Thanksgiving turkey probably pushes the green stuff to the side.
I got nothin', man. This is ROCK bottom. I don't know how you lose to that team, in that manner, in the FIRST game of the year. I just don't get it. Maybe all of the screaming knuckleheads in this town have been right all along. Maybe it's time for some change around here, because I don't care what's gone on in your personal life, all of the distractions, team wasn't together and healthy all pre-season, yadda yadda yadda...there is NO excuse for a team coming out that unprepared and unfocused in the first game. NONE. Maybe it's time.
TSI, then that makes 3 of us that are on McNabb's side. And your info on the sports hernia proves my point (I think). I guess the lesson for QB's is just to avoid getting hit. Easier said than done.
KP, it's amazing that JR Reed made the Eagles roster...after a mediocre career as a hoopster. He can't return punts, but he is one hell of a rebounder.
Then again, I know a J.R. Reid that works at Wal-mart gathering shopping carts.
I'd say that Russell signs first, but who knows? Davis is going to be one frightening ghost someday.
Lisa, those shots were directed at the more violent members of the Raider contingent. If they can just make a decent decision or two, they actually have a few players to build around.
Keep in mind this is the same franchise that selected Janikowski in the 1st round of the 2000 draft...ahead of Shaun Alexander, and many other playmakers.
Rational, what can I say...that was a disappointing loss. I'm just hoping this loss is a wake-up call for the entire team and coaching staff. This team can do much better.
OK, I've taken a couple of deep breaths and I'm calmer now...I dunno, Shooter. Here's hoping that what we saw yesterday was just rust and that things come together. All I know is this: when the words "where's Reno Mahe when you need him" are uttered in my house not once, but TWICE during an Eagles game? Not good times. Not good times at all.
I was thinking the same thing. I never saw Reno run in a crowd of defenders to try and field a fair catch punt.
Sadly, it could have been worse. Lewis fielded another punt off the bounce and was walloped immediately. I didn't catch who it was, but on another punt...two Eagles were trying to catch the same ball! Explain that one!
I believe most of it was rust, especially from McNabb. And that was to be expected. What I didn't expect was a poor performance by the O-line in pass protection. And I'm assuming the receivers were having a hard time getting open, because McNabb doesn't usually hold the ball that long. Or maybe he just is timid in pulling the trigger.
They'll bounce back. They always do.
Where the hell is Reno Mahe anyway? If he's working at Wal-Mart...now would be a good time to pick up the phone and give him a call, Mr. Reid.
Sports, I was expecting a much better game too. Even without the special teams blunders, it was sloppy play by both teams.
Rex will have a few gems, but I don't see him as the consistent leader they need.
Miracle, holy hell...Banzai Buddy scared the hell out me. I thought I had deleted that grape #### years ago. Talk about a blast from the past, that creepy #### gave me nightmares.
shooter- i think the packers defense is good, but not quite the 2nd best in the nfc as some packer fans like to think.
unlike you, i wont leave their offense alone. the running game looks to be going nowhere, and alot of it has to do with poor o-line play. part of it is not having a stud RB, or even an experienced one.
the WR unit will be fine once jennings comes back...that is if the line can protect favre and he throws to the guy that's open, instead of the one that's covered by 3 defenders.
Though, that much trouble on special teams seems more like a fluke than anything. Also, I think the Pack's defense is much improved, especially with Hawk in the middle of everything now.
McNabb's going to be fine. The rust is to be expected. Tough way to start a season but there's a long way to go.
The Chargers offense looked a little underwhelming, especially in a home opener. Luckily, LT was LT just in the nick of time and Rex was Rex just in the nick of time.
I just wanted to chime in on the Grossman comments. the better question should be Can the Bears make the super bowl if they cannot establish run game to support Grossman and keep the opposing defense honest?
Cuz, will Morency coming back make a difference? Or is it just the running game in general that's a problem? It's strange that they haven't done much to acquire a strong running back in the last couple of years.
Nooch, I did expect the rust from McNabb and the rest of the offense. Well, maybe not the offensive line. He was pressured all day.
The Chargers have an offense built around LT & Antonio Gates. I wonder if a receiver will step up as another option. Perhaps Vincent Jackson?
JC, another good point. Thomas Jones was beast last year, and I'm not sure that Cedric Benson is going to fill his shoes. If they plan on going far, the running game will have to be solid...no doubt about it.
Shooter B
I can't question that thought for one minute.
But at least let the starters play in one or two of the preseason games and more than three of four series. Many of 'em look like antiques that need to be dusted off the way they've been playing.
Good to hear the Bills' player Kevin Everett is making some sort of recovery. Any sort of response is better than no response at all !
Shooter B
I've several new posts up on the tophatal site if you're interested in reading 'em and having some fun at the same time.
In particular I Like What I Know And Know What I Like ! The New England Patriots.
Sporting Highlights Of The Weekend And Then Some ! Damn That Man Named Jackson Is Bad ! No Not Michael But Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson. Have fun reading whilst you've got the time. Chimin' out.
Shooter- morency might make a slight difference, but if the o-line cant block any better than they did sunday, it wont matter much if he's really any good or not. probably the only real plus with him is he's better at pass-blocking right now than jackson is.
Shooter B
I saw that you'd avoided the post to view the piece on the cheerleaders ? And I can't say that I blame you. But however do give the piece on Rampage Jackson a look and tell me what you think ?
It's titled Damn That Man Jackson Is Bad ! No Not Michael But Quinton 'Rampage' Jackson.
Now Shooter...you know that Jon Kitna guarenteed 10 wins for the Lions this year. He had coffee last year with Rasheed Wallace and Sheed taught him all about guarntees. Too bad Jon doesnt' have one of those names that we can make up a cute little name for...like Guaren-Sheed!!!
Selected as a finalist in the 2nd "Next Great Sportswriter" contest, but I didn't bring enough cowbell to win it.
I am the self-appointe d chairman of the National Sarcasm Society. If you don't believe me, I guess I don't really care...
I enjoy reading anything that is well written...nov els, articles, whatever. I also enjoy writing for recreation. I believe that writers and athletes have the best jobs on the planet.
Then after the Eagles defense forced a Green Bay punt, things got even uglier. Newly appointed punt returner Greg Lewis failed to signal for a fair catch, even though he was swarmed by defenders. A timely hit forced a fumble that tumbled all the way to the end zone, which was recovered by Green Bay for the first touchdown of the game. Actually, it was the Packers’ ONLY touchdown of the game.
Congratulations to Federer, who continues to impress even those who dub him “The Greatest of All-Time”. The Great One fought off Novak Djokovic, a talented youngster from Serbia who beat Federer just a short time ago in Montreal. Despite winning in straight sets, the match was extremely close…evident by tie-breakers in each of the first two sets. 
