Philadelphia Eagles Fans - We're Done (1 Viewer)

[Jeff Pasquino]

Ok, I won't make this a pity party.

To be objective here (and I am an Eagles fan, and I wasn't pleasant to be around yesterday), Philadelphia had been struggling since the first month of the season. They came out of the gate 4-1, including not finishing off the Giants with a 24-7 lead.

Then the Saints ran on them. And ran. All fourth quarter, they ran. The way to beat Philly was telegraphed to the other 30 teams.

Since then, the Jaguars ran all over them and the Bucs stole a game on a long kick and turnovers.

Just 24 hours ago, this game was to be a tune-up / walkover game to get them in playoff mode for the final six weeks. A win vs. Tennessee and a fortunate loss or two to Dallas and/or the Giants would have them in the middle of the hunt.

That's all gone.

Even with McNabb, however, the issues were there. Stopping the run has been a challenge, and a sustained ground game on the offensive side is still lacking. Now, with no Donovan, the pass 60-70% way of life will be severely hampered by inserting Garcia or Feeley into the mix.

Even if McNabb wasn't hurt, the game was not going well and Philly still could have lost. With three division games left, the Colts, Falcons and Panthers, only Washington looked like a solidly winnable game.

The questions I have at this point:

1. How good was Philly, even with McNabb, really?

2. What does the defense do going forward?

3. Jim Johnson (DC), how much longer do we have him?

4. What lies ahead in free agency and the draft?

5. Will the Eagles win 7 or 8 games?

 

[CYP]

Honestly I think the biggest problem is now AR. He just doesnt seem to be able to get the players to play any longer. For whatever reason I think his act has worn thin and I think its time for a coaching change. I felt this way before the ACL tear. He just doesnt get the team to play anymore. Its very lackluster and I think a change is needed and I hope a change will come.

 

[Jagerbomber]

Honestly I think the biggest problem is now AR. He just doesnt seem to be able to get the players to play any longer. For whatever reason I think his act has worn thin and I think its time for a coaching change. I felt this way before the ACL tear. He just doesnt get the team to play anymore. Its very lackluster and I think a change is needed and I hope a change will come.

Hard to point the finger at a guy that wins as many games as Reid does. But even before McNabb went down, the trend on this team was not very promising as far as making an impact in the postseason.

 

[wilked]

1. Fire Reid

2. Sure up the defense

 

[Joe Bryant]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?

Please tell me people are joking there.

J

 

[Bushead]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Be glad you don't have to listen to sports radio around Philly. Fire Reid and send McNabb packing seems to be the war cry since yeterday I am as disappointed as anyone and was one of the 126 fans left in the stadium yesterday watching that debacle to the end, but getting rid of the two guys that made this franchise something other than a punchline for the last 7 years just doesn't seem to be the answer to me.

 

[JaxBill]

1) With McNabb this was a 9-7, 10-6 borderline playoff team that maybe could win by outscoring somebody. Without him this is a 6-10 team. They'll be lucky to win more than one game going forward with that defense and Garcia/Feeley at the helm.

2) I don't know what the defense does going forward. Maybe get a longer look at Gaither at LB? Sit Darwin Walker on the bench?

3) Two more years. I'm don't think he's the problem.

4) LJ Smith, imo, has been one of the most overrated TEs and he's looking for a pay day so he's gone. Michael Lewis is gone. Darwin Walker is gone. Rod Hood is looking for a payday also. The Eagles need to finally admit that LBs do make a difference and draft an impact player at that position. And they need to draft another AJ Feeley in the middle rounds.

5) Neither. 6-10.

 

[Ghost Rider]

1. How good was Philly, even with McNabb, really?

I will reiterate what I have said for weeks. It seems to me that beating the Cowboys and Owens was the Eagles Super Bowl. Look at their play since.

 

[JaxBill]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Joe, as an Eagles fan, I'm well aware that there are much worse choices out there. I don't think Andy will (or should be fired) but I'm wondering if this is a Holmgren-like moment where somebody has to tell Reid that he needs to take off one of the HC/GM/VP hats and hand off some responsibility.I'll also say that I think Reid as a game-day coach leaves much to be desired. He has had some real bad clock management issues. He also makes the worst video review challenge decisions.

 

[guderian]

In the past it seemed that Philly built their team through the draft and small FA additions. If someone asked for too much money they cut him loose. Lately it seems that they tried to prime the pump by bringing in higher priced players (Owens, Howard, Kearse). It seems to me that's when they started to struggle.

 

[StormChasers]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Joe, as an Eagles fan, I'm well aware that there are much worse choices out there. I don't think Andy will (or should be fired) but I'm wondering if this is a Holmgren-like moment where somebody has to tell Reid that he needs to take off one of the HC/GM/VP hats and hand off some responsibility.I'll also say that I think Reid as a game-day coach leaves much to be desired. He has had some real bad clock management issues. He also makes the worst video review challenge decisions.

This is where the real problems are. Reid has too much responsibility and his need to take over instead of delineate down is what is hurting this team. Barring the McNabb selection and the year he grabbed the 2 CB's, Westbrook and Lewis, Reid has done a terrible job at drafting. His talent evaluation and his decisions on which positions are important is also hurting this team (WR & LB aren't important is his philosophy).He believes the line is the most important but what has he done there? His last 3 first round picks are either bombs or marginal at best (Patterson being the best of the lot but even he has been marginal). I believe it's time for Reid to concentrate on Coaching only and for him to give up his GM & VP responsibilities. Someone has to hold Reid accountable and I just don't see this happening with him holding all the cards.

 

[redman]

I'm not an Eagles fan but I do pay a lot of attention to them both as a 'Skins fan and also as a guy whose dynasty team happens to have a lot of Eagles on it (McNabb, Stallworth, LJ, Patterson, Dawkins, Gaither).

The most surprising thing to me is the defense. They seem to be giving up big plays and sustained drives more than they have done in the recent past and I'm not really sure why. Their defensive line personnel are the envy of most other teams in the NFL and their secondary seems solid. Are the LB's that bad that they're the sole cause of these problems? I can't imagine that Jim Johnson suddenly became stupid overnight, so I doubt that he's where the blame should rest.

I've never been a fan of Andy Reid the play-caller, or Andy Reid the offensive architect. As much as offenses around the league have changed or "modernized", certain old tenets hold true, including that you win in December and January by running the ball. If you're Indy or New Orleans or the Rams or another of the dome teams, maybe you can risk having an offense built to pass the ball 65% of the time, but as we've seen with Indy's trips into NE during the post-season even that will have problems for you.

The running game is not simply a switch you can throw when you decide you want to run. It's very telling to me that Brad Childress, Reid's long-time offensive coordinator and at least sometime play caller has made a power running game the hallmark of his offense after he finally got his own head coaching gig in Minnesota.

On top of that, in an offense that wants to throw that much Reid has done an extremely poor job of putting talent for McNabb to throw to at the skill positions. LJ Smith is not bad, but that's probably all you can say for him. Historically they've relied upon guys like James Thrash, Todd Pinkston, Torrance Small, Freddie Mitchell, and an aging Antonio Freeman to get the job done. Owens was both a magnificent and predictable disaster; Stallworth may yet allow some redemption for them . . . if he can stay healthy (and of course if McNabb can stay healthy too). You simply can't reconcile a pass-first team doing this poor of a job providing talent to pass first to.

I was never a fan of putting McNabb into the West Coast Offense in the first place. As with Vick in Atlanta, McNabb's skill set is noteworthy for a strong arm and enabling plays to be made with his feet, which means that an offense designed around timing, accuracy and passing primarily from the pocket makes little sense. To McNabb's credit, he's developed well and won, but IMHO that success has occurred in spite of and not because of this offensive scheme. I point this out here, though, as just another example of what I view has been a very rigid approach by Reid to building this offense.

The good news is that this team knows how to win under Reid. I view these problems as mostly temporary and fixable - as a Redskins fan I'd gladly switch the Eagles relatively few problems for the Redskins multitude of worries - and with McNabb back healthy next year they figure to be a winning team once again. There are no teams in the NFC East, even the Giants, that are truly outstanding.

 

[Jason Wood]

The questions I have at this point:

1. How good was Philly, even with McNabb, really?

Philly was a wild card playoff team with McNabb. The offense was explosive, but not balanced enough to keep opposing teams honest. While any contending team needs the ability to hit the home run, the inability to shorten the game when it served the team strategically was a real Achilles heel. The lack of sustained drives (even when they led to TDs) put added pressure on an already suspect run defense.

2. What does the defense do going forward?

The Reid-Johnson defense has never had great linebacking play, but the team's serial ignorance to the importance of the position has been, in my view, this adminstrations worst mistake. While Trotter is highly productive in the right situation, he's a liability in coverage and is too often schemed out of the play. This is because the OLBs have gone from average to below average. McCoy is a hard worker, but his head is on a swivel out there and he cannot wrap up tackle. Barber and Jones should be backups and ST contributors for a contending team.

The defensive line looks bright now and in the future. The team doesn't miss Jevon Kearse (he'll be released this offseason IMHO) and has signed Patterson and Cole to looooooooooong term deals alongside Broderick Bunkley and veteran Darren Howard. I would still like to see a true run stopping veteran brought in (look at what a difference it has made for other teams), but that's an opportunistic hope (one has to be on the market obviously).

The secondary is in solid shape when healthy, but the window is closing on Dawkins. He remains one of the NFC's best safeties, but at his age we can't reasonably expect that to continue for more than a few years. Sheppard and Brown are big play guys, but also give up big plays. Their overall effectiveness is directly correlated to the front seven's ability to get consistent pass rush. Sean Considine should replace Michael Lewis permanently. He's the defenses second best tackler and lays wood.

3. Jim Johnson (DC), how much longer do we have him?

If I'm the front office and Reid, I demand that Johnson makes some changes to his assistants this offseason. If he refuses, I look for new blood at the position. While I realize Johnson and his exotic blitz packages played a huge role in the team's five-year run near the top of the NFC, his unwillingness to stop teams from gouging us against the run is inexcusable. Johnson hasn't shown an ability to work with the pieces he has. When he has a healthy front seven that can get at the QB, his defense looks superb. But when teams run inside and use the Eagles aggressiveness against them, he's been unwilling/unable to counterpunch.

4. What lies ahead in free agency and the draft?

The Eagles will, as usual, be in great cap shape. That said, Jeffrey Lurie is very leveraged so I'm not sure he's eager to break the bank in free agency regardless of what's available. In looking at this season's inseason signings (Andrews, Jackson, Brown, Patterson, Cole) the team is clearly continuing with the "Patriots" model of locking up young players before they can command market value in free agency.

5. Will the Eagles win 7 or 8 games?

Of course they will. The Eagles aren't going to go worse than 2-4 in the final six games with or without McNabb. But that's a sorry end to a season that started out with lofty aspirations.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

11/20/2006

McCaffery: Birds have to realize McNabb era is over

Jack McCaffery , Times Sports Columnist

Link

PHILADELPHIA -- It began in a New York ballroom, under a nationally broadcast torrent of heckles and in a demonstration of great draft-day faith. Eight years later, the Donovan McNabb era of Eagles football --- and at least as it was, and as it always was meant to be --- ended Sunday in the Linc, on a medical cart and in a painful 31-13 loss to the Tennessee Titans.

The time for the Eagles to seek their next quarterback has arrived.

It has arrived because it is official: McNabb is too prone to injury to continue to count on for Super Bowl-level production. Not five days before turning the big 3-0. Not with this injury --- a twisted, damaged right knee, the wound that has reduced so many quarterbacks to statuesque pocket-passers. Not for a team in Super Bowl retreat, on so many fronts.

It’s over. Over. O-ver.

"He’s done for the year," Andy Reid said.

He’s done for more than that, for McNabb is done now as the singular vessel in which all Eagles decisions --- personnel and financial --- must be carried.

He’s done as the personality who, at the first sign of a frown, can chase teammates, good teammates, away.

He’s probably done as a multi-dimensional, difficult-to-corral weapon, what with the injury to his knee.

He’s done for the year, but considering that he may not be able to return until next Thanksgiving, he’s done for next year, too. That means that he will be about 32 years old and coming off consecutive injury-abbreviated seasons before he can be counted on again.That’s why the Eagles must find their next quarterback, either in the draft, in a trade, or through free agency.

There must be serious doubts about McNabb’s future.

"I’m not even going there," said Reid, as if the health of his nine-figure quarterback were an inappropriate topic for football conversation.

But Reid never went there, because he was too stubborn to go there. He was determined to run his career in a three-legged race with McNabb. That’s why he rejected some legendarily bountiful deals --- and why he resisted the urgings from so many Eagles fans to draft someone else --- to stay put in that 1999 draft and select McNabb. For that self-confidence, Reid was rewarded with a five-time Pro Bowl quarterback and one Super Bowl team. With that quick success, though, Reid was stained with blissful contentment and always lacked the inspiration for a reasonable Plan B.

That was plain last season when McNabb’s 2005 season ended with a sports hernia after nine games and backup Mike McMahon proved under prepared, with the Birds winning only two more game, just one season after being in the Super Bowl.

This season, McNabb made it into Game 10 before being injured. Jeff Garcia entered, threw 22 incomplete passes and did nothing to help the Eagles defeat a two-win team. Not only did he flash a frighteningly weak throwing arm, but the 36-year-old’s comments could have suggested a systemic problem with the way the Birds ready their bullpen.

"Well, as a backup quarterback in Philadelphia, you don’t get any reps with the starting team," said Garcia, after registering a lukewarm 70.6 passer rating. "So it is really a sense of mental preparation. You run the scout team throughout the week and then you get some throws here and there in one-on-one type situations. But outside of that, it’s all visual. Fortunately, I have been in this game long enough to where it’s not necessarily rocket science to me. I do know what I am doing. I do have familiarity with the system. And it’s just a matter of catching up to speed."

Just a hunch: Jeff Garcia doesn’t start Sunday night in Indianapolis, not with that suggestion, perceived or otherwise, that Reid’s methods of backup-quarterback preparation are not up to speed, themselves. But whether he starts or not, it will not re-arrange the football universe, for the 5-5 Eagles are unlikely to reach the playoffs now that McNabb has to pull his clothing line over an ankle-to-hip cast.

The Eagles don’t have to quit on McNabb.

He has a contract valued at a buck-13-M’s. He deserves physical rehabilitation and another chance to thrive. Perhaps this latest collision with real football life will inspire him to more excellence. His specialty always has been skeptic-silencing.

But hoping for the resurrection of the real Donovan McNabb is one thing; expecting it to result again in the greatness budgeted for a former No. 2 overall draft pick would be derelict.There is no reason to resist acquiring the next franchise quarterback, or, if that quarterback is to be A.J. Feeley, preparing him that way --- no reason, that is, unless Reid still doesn’t feel like it.

"I’ll be ready if called upon," Feeley said. "That’s the way I approach it."

The Eagles won with Feeley when McNabb missed the final six regular-season games of 2002 with a broken ankle. Some players are best in such circumstances, and Feeley may be one. That’s an option, not only now, but for the future. Feeley is fluent in the Eagles’ offense and, while also 29 years old, has had both practical starting experience yet considerably less physical wear than McNabb.

So give him the first chance. But just give somebody a chance to develop as the Birds’ next franchise quarterback.

The Donovan McNabb Era, as it was meant to be, has ended much as it began --- in something other than applause.

To contact Jack McCaffery, e-mail sports@delcotimes.com

 

[dickey moe]

11/20/2006

McCaffery: Birds have to realize McNabb era is over

Jack McCaffery , Times Sports Columnist

Link

PHILADELPHIA -- It began in a New York ballroom, under a nationally broadcast torrent of heckles and in a demonstration of great draft-day faith. Eight years later, the Donovan McNabb era of Eagles football --- and at least as it was, and as it always was meant to be --- ended Sunday in the Linc, on a medical cart and in a painful 31-13 loss to the Tennessee Titans.

The time for the Eagles to seek their next quarterback has arrived.

It has arrived because it is official: McNabb is too prone to injury to continue to count on for Super Bowl-level production. Not five days before turning the big 3-0. Not with this injury --- a twisted, damaged right knee, the wound that has reduced so many quarterbacks to statuesque pocket-passers. Not for a team in Super Bowl retreat, on so many fronts.

It’s over. Over. O-ver.

"He’s done for the year," Andy Reid said.

He’s done for more than that, for McNabb is done now as the singular vessel in which all Eagles decisions --- personnel and financial --- must be carried.

He’s done as the personality who, at the first sign of a frown, can chase teammates, good teammates, away.

He’s probably done as a multi-dimensional, difficult-to-corral weapon, what with the injury to his knee.

He’s done for the year, but considering that he may not be able to return until next Thanksgiving, he’s done for next year, too. That means that he will be about 32 years old and coming off consecutive injury-abbreviated seasons before he can be counted on again.That’s why the Eagles must find their next quarterback, either in the draft, in a trade, or through free agency.

There must be serious doubts about McNabb’s future.

"I’m not even going there," said Reid, as if the health of his nine-figure quarterback were an inappropriate topic for football conversation.

But Reid never went there, because he was too stubborn to go there. He was determined to run his career in a three-legged race with McNabb. That’s why he rejected some legendarily bountiful deals --- and why he resisted the urgings from so many Eagles fans to draft someone else --- to stay put in that 1999 draft and select McNabb. For that self-confidence, Reid was rewarded with a five-time Pro Bowl quarterback and one Super Bowl team. With that quick success, though, Reid was stained with blissful contentment and always lacked the inspiration for a reasonable Plan B.

That was plain last season when McNabb’s 2005 season ended with a sports hernia after nine games and backup Mike McMahon proved under prepared, with the Birds winning only two more game, just one season after being in the Super Bowl.

This season, McNabb made it into Game 10 before being injured. Jeff Garcia entered, threw 22 incomplete passes and did nothing to help the Eagles defeat a two-win team. Not only did he flash a frighteningly weak throwing arm, but the 36-year-old’s comments could have suggested a systemic problem with the way the Birds ready their bullpen.

"Well, as a backup quarterback in Philadelphia, you don’t get any reps with the starting team," said Garcia, after registering a lukewarm 70.6 passer rating. "So it is really a sense of mental preparation. You run the scout team throughout the week and then you get some throws here and there in one-on-one type situations. But outside of that, it’s all visual. Fortunately, I have been in this game long enough to where it’s not necessarily rocket science to me. I do know what I am doing. I do have familiarity with the system. And it’s just a matter of catching up to speed."

Just a hunch: Jeff Garcia doesn’t start Sunday night in Indianapolis, not with that suggestion, perceived or otherwise, that Reid’s methods of backup-quarterback preparation are not up to speed, themselves. But whether he starts or not, it will not re-arrange the football universe, for the 5-5 Eagles are unlikely to reach the playoffs now that McNabb has to pull his clothing line over an ankle-to-hip cast.

The Eagles don’t have to quit on McNabb.

He has a contract valued at a buck-13-M’s. He deserves physical rehabilitation and another chance to thrive. Perhaps this latest collision with real football life will inspire him to more excellence. His specialty always has been skeptic-silencing.

But hoping for the resurrection of the real Donovan McNabb is one thing; expecting it to result again in the greatness budgeted for a former No. 2 overall draft pick would be derelict.There is no reason to resist acquiring the next franchise quarterback, or, if that quarterback is to be A.J. Feeley, preparing him that way --- no reason, that is, unless Reid still doesn’t feel like it.

"I’ll be ready if called upon," Feeley said. "That’s the way I approach it."

The Eagles won with Feeley when McNabb missed the final six regular-season games of 2002 with a broken ankle. Some players are best in such circumstances, and Feeley may be one. That’s an option, not only now, but for the future. Feeley is fluent in the Eagles’ offense and, while also 29 years old, has had both practical starting experience yet considerably less physical wear than McNabb.

So give him the first chance. But just give somebody a chance to develop as the Birds’ next franchise quarterback.

The Donovan McNabb Era, as it was meant to be, has ended much as it began --- in something other than applause.

To contact Jack McCaffery, e-mail sports@delcotimes.com

Wow. Just...wow.

 

[redman]

I think that article is ridiculous. The injury is definitely devastating now, but unless this injury is more than a mere ACL rupture/tear, McNabb should be back and doing what he's done to date.

In fact, the comparison that is rattling around in most peoples' heads right now is Culpepper, but people forget that his injury was the worst of the worst knee injuries, with tears of all three ligaments IIRC. It may be that now, or at least during this offseason, might be a good "buy low" time for McNabb.

 

[posty]

Philadelphia Eagles Fans - We're Done

 

[CYP]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Im not saying that Reid is a bad coach, thats obviously incorrect. What I am saying is that the team no longer seems to want to play for him. They often come out flat. They are often just blah. To me that is the coaches problem. He just cant get them to play for him any longer in my opinion. I think this eventually happens with most coaches. At some point the luster is gone and its time for a change. Would he be a great coach for another team. You bet he would but I think his time in Philadelphia is over.

 

[CYP]

11/20/2006

McCaffery: Birds have to realize McNabb era is over

Jack McCaffery , Times Sports Columnist

Link

PHILADELPHIA -- It began in a New York ballroom, under a nationally broadcast torrent of heckles and in a demonstration of great draft-day faith. Eight years later, the Donovan McNabb era of Eagles football --- and at least as it was, and as it always was meant to be --- ended Sunday in the Linc, on a medical cart and in a painful 31-13 loss to the Tennessee Titans.

The time for the Eagles to seek their next quarterback has arrived.

It has arrived because it is official: McNabb is too prone to injury to continue to count on for Super Bowl-level production. Not five days before turning the big 3-0. Not with this injury --- a twisted, damaged right knee, the wound that has reduced so many quarterbacks to statuesque pocket-passers. Not for a team in Super Bowl retreat, on so many fronts.

It’s over. Over. O-ver.

"He’s done for the year," Andy Reid said.

He’s done for more than that, for McNabb is done now as the singular vessel in which all Eagles decisions --- personnel and financial --- must be carried.

He’s done as the personality who, at the first sign of a frown, can chase teammates, good teammates, away.

He’s probably done as a multi-dimensional, difficult-to-corral weapon, what with the injury to his knee.

He’s done for the year, but considering that he may not be able to return until next Thanksgiving, he’s done for next year, too. That means that he will be about 32 years old and coming off consecutive injury-abbreviated seasons before he can be counted on again.That’s why the Eagles must find their next quarterback, either in the draft, in a trade, or through free agency.

There must be serious doubts about McNabb’s future.

"I’m not even going there," said Reid, as if the health of his nine-figure quarterback were an inappropriate topic for football conversation.

But Reid never went there, because he was too stubborn to go there. He was determined to run his career in a three-legged race with McNabb. That’s why he rejected some legendarily bountiful deals --- and why he resisted the urgings from so many Eagles fans to draft someone else --- to stay put in that 1999 draft and select McNabb. For that self-confidence, Reid was rewarded with a five-time Pro Bowl quarterback and one Super Bowl team. With that quick success, though, Reid was stained with blissful contentment and always lacked the inspiration for a reasonable Plan B.

That was plain last season when McNabb’s 2005 season ended with a sports hernia after nine games and backup Mike McMahon proved under prepared, with the Birds winning only two more game, just one season after being in the Super Bowl.

This season, McNabb made it into Game 10 before being injured. Jeff Garcia entered, threw 22 incomplete passes and did nothing to help the Eagles defeat a two-win team. Not only did he flash a frighteningly weak throwing arm, but the 36-year-old’s comments could have suggested a systemic problem with the way the Birds ready their bullpen.

"Well, as a backup quarterback in Philadelphia, you don’t get any reps with the starting team," said Garcia, after registering a lukewarm 70.6 passer rating. "So it is really a sense of mental preparation. You run the scout team throughout the week and then you get some throws here and there in one-on-one type situations. But outside of that, it’s all visual. Fortunately, I have been in this game long enough to where it’s not necessarily rocket science to me. I do know what I am doing. I do have familiarity with the system. And it’s just a matter of catching up to speed."

Just a hunch: Jeff Garcia doesn’t start Sunday night in Indianapolis, not with that suggestion, perceived or otherwise, that Reid’s methods of backup-quarterback preparation are not up to speed, themselves. But whether he starts or not, it will not re-arrange the football universe, for the 5-5 Eagles are unlikely to reach the playoffs now that McNabb has to pull his clothing line over an ankle-to-hip cast.

The Eagles don’t have to quit on McNabb.

He has a contract valued at a buck-13-M’s. He deserves physical rehabilitation and another chance to thrive. Perhaps this latest collision with real football life will inspire him to more excellence. His specialty always has been skeptic-silencing.

But hoping for the resurrection of the real Donovan McNabb is one thing; expecting it to result again in the greatness budgeted for a former No. 2 overall draft pick would be derelict.There is no reason to resist acquiring the next franchise quarterback, or, if that quarterback is to be A.J. Feeley, preparing him that way --- no reason, that is, unless Reid still doesn’t feel like it.

"I’ll be ready if called upon," Feeley said. "That’s the way I approach it."

The Eagles won with Feeley when McNabb missed the final six regular-season games of 2002 with a broken ankle. Some players are best in such circumstances, and Feeley may be one. That’s an option, not only now, but for the future. Feeley is fluent in the Eagles’ offense and, while also 29 years old, has had both practical starting experience yet considerably less physical wear than McNabb.

So give him the first chance. But just give somebody a chance to develop as the Birds’ next franchise quarterback.

The Donovan McNabb Era, as it was meant to be, has ended much as it began --- in something other than applause.

To contact Jack McCaffery, e-mail sports@delcotimes.com

Wow. Just...wow.

For what its worth, this guy is about one of the most negative people you can find for any of the Philadelphia sports team.

 

[Bluestaples]

http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/16059523.htm

In more bad news... Andre Waters killed himself yesterday as well

 

[zadok]

Joe, as an Eagles fan, I'm well aware that there are much worse choices out there. I don't think Andy will (or should be fired) but I'm wondering if this is a Holmgren-like moment where somebody has to tell Reid that he needs to take off one of the HC/GM/VP hats and hand off some responsibility.

He already has...Heckert is the GM

 

[zadok]

http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/16059523.htm

In more bad news... Andre Waters killed himself yesterday as well

 

[jerseys finest]

Knowing the season is done, im actually kind of excited to see what players like: Gaithers/Bunkley and some of the other young guys can do with some actual playing time. Here's hoping for next years draft pick to be an impact player, but fully expecting another lineman or "project player".. I believe Lynch will still be around by our pick and has a maroney/sjax type feel with a lil more size and runs HARD. He would be the pefect complement to Westy because buck obviously isn't getting it done between the tackles.. AR's drafts are horribly easy to predict with his philosophy.

RB or LB are top two needs, followed by S/CB/WR(depending on stallworth situation)

both lines are solid and young with good depth.

a qb who can manage a game will be brought in depending on the rest of this season and mcnabbs rehab.

Westy needs a power back who can complement his skills.

LB core needs an overhaul, trotter has a couple more years, but is already slacking. as was stated before, mccoy could be good if he settled down, he seems to be lacking quick decision making. gaithers is promising, but not much else.

CBs are young and very talented, but depth is an issue.

Dawk has another year or two left in him, but needs a replacement to groom. I agree Considine will supplant lewis, he reminds me alot of john lynch's intensity/ability

TE is solid.

WR i think totally depends on if stallworth gets resigned. I think if he stays healthy, they will try and lock him up before FA begins. I think if his hammy is an issue, they will let him hit FA, give him an offer, but not heavily pursue him. If the latter, it needs to be addressed in the draft or FA.

thats just my rough opinion, im pretty hungover today from drinking myself into a stuppor last night to forget that digusting game..

 

[Stillers Jr.]

http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/16059523.htm

In more bad news... Andre Waters killed himself yesterday as well

Thats a shame...I didn't see where it said he killed himself though. Unless, of course, my reading comprehension is failing...

 

[zadok]

LB core needs an overhaul, trotter has a couple more years, but is already slacking. as was stated before, mccoy could be good if he settled down, he seems to be lacking quick decision making. gaithers is promising, but not much else.

Remember Gocong was on IR this year. Hopefully he can supplant Jones.

CBs are young and very talented, but depth is an issue.

If Will Peterson...err.. James...can even come close to living up to his hype coming out of school, they will have an excellent 3 CB and Hood may or may not come back.

 

[Bluestaples]

http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/16059523.htm

In more bad news... Andre Waters killed himself yesterday as well

Thats a shame...I didn't see where it said he killed himself though. Unless, of course, my reading comprehension is failing...

the article did not mention it - however, reports on local radio have. That is the only link I was able to find at the time though.

 

[Stillers Jr.]

http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/16059523.htm

In more bad news... Andre Waters killed himself yesterday as well

Thats a shame...I didn't see where it said he killed himself though. Unless, of course, my reading comprehension is failing...

the article did not mention it - however, reports on local radio have. That is the only link I was able to find at the time though.

Well that sucks...I feel bad for anyone who thinks that's the only option.

 

[hotdogcollars]

welcome to the typical realm of over-reaction created by philly sports fans....

Remember when Randal had to go...then went and had a pro bowl year in MIN

Remember when the Flyers had to trade 10 years (exaggeration) worth of draft picks for Lindros...yeah Forsberg wouldnt have been nice to have all those years

Remember when the '93 Phils had to be dismantled because they blew it against the Jays...wow, they've been so great ever since that.

Remember when Reggie White was getting old and they wouldnt pay him the big bucks...oops, your welcome to Green Bay for that super bowl

Sure, the injury sucks, and sure AR has some improving to do. But, Eagles seasons tickets have been in my family since the days of Connie Mack at Shibe Park and this sort of over reaction has been happening ever since then...for the better part of 60 years.

 

[walkwithme]

This thread is right we are done this year. The Eagles even when the defense was better was a bend but don't break type of defense. They would give up yards but not let much offenses just run up and down on them and score TD's. Now those drives are td's instead of field goals. I admit the Eagles are in need of stud LB help a run stopper and a LB that can cover, as well as a RB capable of starting when/if injuries happen or someone to pound the ball and give Westbrook a break for a series. As long as McNabb comes back ready next year and healthly this team is right where they need to be.

 

[stevegamer]

11/20/2006

McCaffery: Birds have to realize McNabb era is over

Jack McCaffery , Times Sports Columnist

Link

PHILADELPHIA -- It began in a New York ballroom, under a nationally broadcast torrent of heckles and in a demonstration of great draft-day faith. Eight years later, the Donovan McNabb era of Eagles football --- and at least as it was, and as it always was meant to be --- ended Sunday in the Linc, on a medical cart and in a painful 31-13 loss to the Tennessee Titans.

The time for the Eagles to seek their next quarterback has arrived.

It has arrived because it is official: McNabb is too prone to injury to continue to count on for Super Bowl-level production. Not five days before turning the big 3-0. Not with this injury --- a twisted, damaged right knee, the wound that has reduced so many quarterbacks to statuesque pocket-passers. Not for a team in Super Bowl retreat, on so many fronts.

It’s over. Over. O-ver.

"He’s done for the year," Andy Reid said.

He’s done for more than that, for McNabb is done now as the singular vessel in which all Eagles decisions --- personnel and financial --- must be carried.

He’s done as the personality who, at the first sign of a frown, can chase teammates, good teammates, away.

He’s probably done as a multi-dimensional, difficult-to-corral weapon, what with the injury to his knee.

He’s done for the year, but considering that he may not be able to return until next Thanksgiving, he’s done for next year, too. That means that he will be about 32 years old and coming off consecutive injury-abbreviated seasons before he can be counted on again.That’s why the Eagles must find their next quarterback, either in the draft, in a trade, or through free agency.

There must be serious doubts about McNabb’s future.

"I’m not even going there," said Reid, as if the health of his nine-figure quarterback were an inappropriate topic for football conversation.

But Reid never went there, because he was too stubborn to go there. He was determined to run his career in a three-legged race with McNabb. That’s why he rejected some legendarily bountiful deals --- and why he resisted the urgings from so many Eagles fans to draft someone else --- to stay put in that 1999 draft and select McNabb. For that self-confidence, Reid was rewarded with a five-time Pro Bowl quarterback and one Super Bowl team. With that quick success, though, Reid was stained with blissful contentment and always lacked the inspiration for a reasonable Plan B.

That was plain last season when McNabb’s 2005 season ended with a sports hernia after nine games and backup Mike McMahon proved under prepared, with the Birds winning only two more game, just one season after being in the Super Bowl.

This season, McNabb made it into Game 10 before being injured. Jeff Garcia entered, threw 22 incomplete passes and did nothing to help the Eagles defeat a two-win team. Not only did he flash a frighteningly weak throwing arm, but the 36-year-old’s comments could have suggested a systemic problem with the way the Birds ready their bullpen.

"Well, as a backup quarterback in Philadelphia, you don’t get any reps with the starting team," said Garcia, after registering a lukewarm 70.6 passer rating. "So it is really a sense of mental preparation. You run the scout team throughout the week and then you get some throws here and there in one-on-one type situations. But outside of that, it’s all visual. Fortunately, I have been in this game long enough to where it’s not necessarily rocket science to me. I do know what I am doing. I do have familiarity with the system. And it’s just a matter of catching up to speed."

Just a hunch: Jeff Garcia doesn’t start Sunday night in Indianapolis, not with that suggestion, perceived or otherwise, that Reid’s methods of backup-quarterback preparation are not up to speed, themselves. But whether he starts or not, it will not re-arrange the football universe, for the 5-5 Eagles are unlikely to reach the playoffs now that McNabb has to pull his clothing line over an ankle-to-hip cast.

The Eagles don’t have to quit on McNabb.

He has a contract valued at a buck-13-M’s. He deserves physical rehabilitation and another chance to thrive. Perhaps this latest collision with real football life will inspire him to more excellence. His specialty always has been skeptic-silencing.

But hoping for the resurrection of the real Donovan McNabb is one thing; expecting it to result again in the greatness budgeted for a former No. 2 overall draft pick would be derelict.There is no reason to resist acquiring the next franchise quarterback, or, if that quarterback is to be A.J. Feeley, preparing him that way --- no reason, that is, unless Reid still doesn’t feel like it.

"I’ll be ready if called upon," Feeley said. "That’s the way I approach it."

The Eagles won with Feeley when McNabb missed the final six regular-season games of 2002 with a broken ankle. Some players are best in such circumstances, and Feeley may be one. That’s an option, not only now, but for the future. Feeley is fluent in the Eagles’ offense and, while also 29 years old, has had both practical starting experience yet considerably less physical wear than McNabb.

So give him the first chance. But just give somebody a chance to develop as the Birds’ next franchise quarterback.

The Donovan McNabb Era, as it was meant to be, has ended much as it began --- in something other than applause.

To contact Jack McCaffery, e-mail sports@delcotimes.com

Guys, you need to know the following about the author of the article: 1. He knows his market - the negative Philly area sports fan.

2. He is also a talk-radio host in Philly, and his lack of knowledge shows.

3. He is possibly the worst sportswriter in the United States.

4. He's the SPORTS EDITOR at his paper the Delaware County Daily Times.

5. The section's strength is high school sports coverage, but they make factual errors there fairly often.

When he was just a idiot hack writing a crappy column, we got the paper, but when they made him the sports editor, I convinced my wife to allow me to cancel the paper immediately in lieu of a birthday gift. I told them why I cancelled as well.

Feel free to contact him, if he gets back to you (probably won't) you'll liekly be amused by what comes via e-mail.

 

[jerseys finest]

LB core needs an overhaul, trotter has a couple more years, but is already slacking. as was stated before, mccoy could be good if he settled down, he seems to be lacking quick decision making. gaithers is promising, but not much else.

Remember Gocong was on IR this year. Hopefully he can supplant Jones.

CBs are young and very talented, but depth is an issue.

If Will Peterson...err.. James...can even come close to living up to his hype coming out of school, they will have an excellent 3 CB and Hood may or may not come back.

you are completely right. i totally forgot about will peterson when writing that because of the name change. Gocong is interesting too, depending on how he comes back from his injury, he has a ton of potential. leaving how i see team needs as: 1. RB-an actual power back to complement westy. 2.LB 3.WR/S/CB

welcome to the typical realm of over-reaction created by philly sports fans....Remember when Randal had to go...then went and had a pro bowl year in MINRemember when the Flyers had to trade 10 years (exaggeration) worth of draft picks for Lindros...yeah Forsberg wouldnt have been nice to have all those yearsRemember when the '93 Phils had to be dismantled because they blew it against the Jays...wow, they've been so great ever since that.Remember when Reggie White was getting old and they wouldnt pay him the big bucks...oops, your welcome to Green Bay for that super bowlSure, the injury sucks, and sure AR has some improving to do. But, Eagles seasons tickets have been in my family since the days of Connie Mack at Shibe Park and this sort of over reaction has been happening ever since then...for the better part of 60 years.

for the most part, the true eagles fans know there is no reason to be calling for Reid or Mcnabb to go. Its the knee-jerk reaction for alot of the fans, but its the last thing this franchise needs to do. A little change to adapt is called for on some of reids decision making, but thats the extent of it. McNabb has been and is the driving force behind the team, two years of unfortunate injuries is no cause for panic. He is a top franchise qb.

 

[Polish Hammer]

welcome to the typical realm of over-reaction created by philly sports fans....Remember when Randal had to go...then went and had a pro bowl year in MINRemember when the Flyers had to trade 10 years (exaggeration) worth of draft picks for Lindros...yeah Forsberg wouldnt have been nice to have all those yearsRemember when the '93 Phils had to be dismantled because they blew it against the Jays...wow, they've been so great ever since that.Remember when Reggie White was getting old and they wouldnt pay him the big bucks...oops, your welcome to Green Bay for that super bowlSure, the injury sucks, and sure AR has some improving to do. But, Eagles seasons tickets have been in my family since the days of Connie Mack at Shibe Park and this sort of over reaction has been happening ever since then...for the better part of 60 years.

To your points....Randall left PHI b/c he was an awful fit for the West Coast offense that OC John Gruden was running at the time. His first year in MIN he was a backup so obviously he wasn't seen as this savior/gem that was picked up in free agency. Plus, that whole offense in MIN was a monster that year and he played his part perfectly...but he was a part of it, not the whole thing. I like Randall as much as the next Philly fan (and most still really like and appreciate him and what he did here), but you are off base.I'm not a hockey guy so I won't comment.The 93 Phils were lightning in a bottle (or steroids in a bottle, depending on how you look at it) and it was highly unlikely that they could repeat the performance. They weren't dismantled, though some of the pitching took over. Plus, the strike shortened the following season. It wasn't the fans or media calling for a change of anything other than getting rid of Mitch Williams.Reggie White left town via free agency b/c the owner at the time (Norman Braman) wanted to at all times spend as little as possible and knew he wouldn't even come close to any of the offers that Reggie would get. The coach, fans, and media all really wanted Reggie to stay.I think that Philly fans are passionate and may overreact b/c of that passion, but their gripes are generally based in a solid bit of truth/logic. In this case, Reid tries to be a jack of all trades and seemingly becomes a master of none. Should he go? I doubt it. Should he refocus on a fewer number of leadership roles? Probably. Does Donovan need to go? Probably not....but the organization needs desperately to find a new QB to groom b/c it seem that McNabb is wearing down as he gets older.

 

[Godsbrother]

1. Fire Reid2. Sure up the defense

You missed step 1B. After you fire Reid you need to replace him with someone better. Do you have anyone in particular in mind?

 

[harryhood]

As a giants fan I couldn't be happier you guys are tanking

now all they need to worry about is dallas

 

[Debeucci]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Be glad you don't have to listen to sports radio around Philly. Fire Reid and send McNabb packing seems to be the war cry since yeterday I am as disappointed as anyone and was one of the 126 fans left in the stadium yesterday watching that debacle to the end, but getting rid of the two guys that made this franchise something other than a punchline for the last 7 years just doesn't seem to be the answer to me.

WTF?!?! Um...The bears will take McNabb. Go ahead and send him packing.We would LOVE to have McNabb.

 

[hotdogcollars]

welcome to the typical realm of over-reaction created by philly sports fans....Remember when Randal had to go...then went and had a pro bowl year in MINRemember when the Flyers had to trade 10 years (exaggeration) worth of draft picks for Lindros...yeah Forsberg wouldnt have been nice to have all those yearsRemember when the '93 Phils had to be dismantled because they blew it against the Jays...wow, they've been so great ever since that.Remember when Reggie White was getting old and they wouldnt pay him the big bucks...oops, your welcome to Green Bay for that super bowlSure, the injury sucks, and sure AR has some improving to do. But, Eagles seasons tickets have been in my family since the days of Connie Mack at Shibe Park and this sort of over reaction has been happening ever since then...for the better part of 60 years.

To your points....Randall left PHI b/c he was an awful fit for the West Coast offense that OC John Gruden was running at the time. His first year in MIN he was a backup so obviously he wasn't seen as this savior/gem that was picked up in free agency. Plus, that whole offense in MIN was a monster that year and he played his part perfectly...but he was a part of it, not the whole thing. I like Randall as much as the next Philly fan (and most still really like and appreciate him and what he did here), but you are off base.I'm not a hockey guy so I won't comment.The 93 Phils were lightning in a bottle (or steroids in a bottle, depending on how you look at it) and it was highly unlikely that they could repeat the performance. They weren't dismantled, though some of the pitching took over. Plus, the strike shortened the following season. It wasn't the fans or media calling for a change of anything other than getting rid of Mitch Williams.Reggie White left town via free agency b/c the owner at the time (Norman Braman) wanted to at all times spend as little as possible and knew he wouldn't even come close to any of the offers that Reggie would get. The coach, fans, and media all really wanted Reggie to stay.I think that Philly fans are passionate and may overreact b/c of that passion, but their gripes are generally based in a solid bit of truth/logic. In this case, Reid tries to be a jack of all trades and seemingly becomes a master of none. Should he go? I doubt it. Should he refocus on a fewer number of leadership roles? Probably. Does Donovan need to go? Probably not....but the organization needs desperately to find a new QB to groom b/c it seem that McNabb is wearing down as he gets older.

I'm not saying that those cases didnt have underlying truth to them...i'm just speaking to the reaction of the fans.As for basing major decisions on snippets of truth, thats the kind of stuff that gets a country into another vietnam...oh, wait a second, nevermind. If its ok for our country's leaders, its ok for the local sports fans.

 

[JaxBill]

As a giants fan I couldn't be happier you guys are tanking now all they need to worry about is dallas

 

[Polish Hammer]

welcome to the typical realm of over-reaction created by philly sports fans....Remember when Randal had to go...then went and had a pro bowl year in MINRemember when the Flyers had to trade 10 years (exaggeration) worth of draft picks for Lindros...yeah Forsberg wouldnt have been nice to have all those yearsRemember when the '93 Phils had to be dismantled because they blew it against the Jays...wow, they've been so great ever since that.Remember when Reggie White was getting old and they wouldnt pay him the big bucks...oops, your welcome to Green Bay for that super bowlSure, the injury sucks, and sure AR has some improving to do. But, Eagles seasons tickets have been in my family since the days of Connie Mack at Shibe Park and this sort of over reaction has been happening ever since then...for the better part of 60 years.

To your points....Randall left PHI b/c he was an awful fit for the West Coast offense that OC John Gruden was running at the time. His first year in MIN he was a backup so obviously he wasn't seen as this savior/gem that was picked up in free agency. Plus, that whole offense in MIN was a monster that year and he played his part perfectly...but he was a part of it, not the whole thing. I like Randall as much as the next Philly fan (and most still really like and appreciate him and what he did here), but you are off base.I'm not a hockey guy so I won't comment.The 93 Phils were lightning in a bottle (or steroids in a bottle, depending on how you look at it) and it was highly unlikely that they could repeat the performance. They weren't dismantled, though some of the pitching took over. Plus, the strike shortened the following season. It wasn't the fans or media calling for a change of anything other than getting rid of Mitch Williams.Reggie White left town via free agency b/c the owner at the time (Norman Braman) wanted to at all times spend as little as possible and knew he wouldn't even come close to any of the offers that Reggie would get. The coach, fans, and media all really wanted Reggie to stay.I think that Philly fans are passionate and may overreact b/c of that passion, but their gripes are generally based in a solid bit of truth/logic. In this case, Reid tries to be a jack of all trades and seemingly becomes a master of none. Should he go? I doubt it. Should he refocus on a fewer number of leadership roles? Probably. Does Donovan need to go? Probably not....but the organization needs desperately to find a new QB to groom b/c it seem that McNabb is wearing down as he gets older.

I'm not saying that those cases didnt have underlying truth to them...i'm just speaking to the reaction of the fans.As for basing major decisions on snippets of truth, thats the kind of stuff that gets a country into another vietnam...oh, wait a second, nevermind. If its ok for our country's leaders, its ok for the local sports fans.

Actually, I would describe your analysis of the situation as being based on "snippets." In my response I showed you why in 2 of the 4 situations (Phils/Reggie White) the fans were not in fact clamoring for the changes you suggested. In another one of them (Randall) the fans were right (as most football writers agreed at the time) that the situation wasn't a good fit anymore and it took a radically different environment/team/offense for Randall to have another good year. The fourth I won't speculate on b/c I don't know. It seems that the characterization of Philly fans you are projecting isn't just based on snippets, but on incorrect facts as well. I won't bother commenting on the misplaced political comment.

 

[weisguy0831]

11/20/2006

McCaffery: Birds have to realize McNabb era is over

Jack McCaffery , Times Sports Columnist

Link

PHILADELPHIA -- It began in a New York ballroom, under a nationally broadcast torrent of heckles and in a demonstration of great draft-day faith. Eight years later, the Donovan McNabb era of Eagles football --- and at least as it was, and as it always was meant to be --- ended Sunday in the Linc, on a medical cart and in a painful 31-13 loss to the Tennessee Titans.

The time for the Eagles to seek their next quarterback has arrived.

It has arrived because it is official: McNabb is too prone to injury to continue to count on for Super Bowl-level production. Not five days before turning the big 3-0. Not with this injury --- a twisted, damaged right knee, the wound that has reduced so many quarterbacks to statuesque pocket-passers. Not for a team in Super Bowl retreat, on so many fronts.

It’s over. Over. O-ver.

"He’s done for the year," Andy Reid said.

He’s done for more than that, for McNabb is done now as the singular vessel in which all Eagles decisions --- personnel and financial --- must be carried.

He’s done as the personality who, at the first sign of a frown, can chase teammates, good teammates, away.

He’s probably done as a multi-dimensional, difficult-to-corral weapon, what with the injury to his knee.

He’s done for the year, but considering that he may not be able to return until next Thanksgiving, he’s done for next year, too. That means that he will be about 32 years old and coming off consecutive injury-abbreviated seasons before he can be counted on again.That’s why the Eagles must find their next quarterback, either in the draft, in a trade, or through free agency.

There must be serious doubts about McNabb’s future.

"I’m not even going there," said Reid, as if the health of his nine-figure quarterback were an inappropriate topic for football conversation.

But Reid never went there, because he was too stubborn to go there. He was determined to run his career in a three-legged race with McNabb. That’s why he rejected some legendarily bountiful deals --- and why he resisted the urgings from so many Eagles fans to draft someone else --- to stay put in that 1999 draft and select McNabb. For that self-confidence, Reid was rewarded with a five-time Pro Bowl quarterback and one Super Bowl team. With that quick success, though, Reid was stained with blissful contentment and always lacked the inspiration for a reasonable Plan B.

That was plain last season when McNabb’s 2005 season ended with a sports hernia after nine games and backup Mike McMahon proved under prepared, with the Birds winning only two more game, just one season after being in the Super Bowl.

This season, McNabb made it into Game 10 before being injured. Jeff Garcia entered, threw 22 incomplete passes and did nothing to help the Eagles defeat a two-win team. Not only did he flash a frighteningly weak throwing arm, but the 36-year-old’s comments could have suggested a systemic problem with the way the Birds ready their bullpen.

"Well, as a backup quarterback in Philadelphia, you don’t get any reps with the starting team," said Garcia, after registering a lukewarm 70.6 passer rating. "So it is really a sense of mental preparation. You run the scout team throughout the week and then you get some throws here and there in one-on-one type situations. But outside of that, it’s all visual. Fortunately, I have been in this game long enough to where it’s not necessarily rocket science to me. I do know what I am doing. I do have familiarity with the system. And it’s just a matter of catching up to speed."

Just a hunch: Jeff Garcia doesn’t start Sunday night in Indianapolis, not with that suggestion, perceived or otherwise, that Reid’s methods of backup-quarterback preparation are not up to speed, themselves. But whether he starts or not, it will not re-arrange the football universe, for the 5-5 Eagles are unlikely to reach the playoffs now that McNabb has to pull his clothing line over an ankle-to-hip cast.

The Eagles don’t have to quit on McNabb.

He has a contract valued at a buck-13-M’s. He deserves physical rehabilitation and another chance to thrive. Perhaps this latest collision with real football life will inspire him to more excellence. His specialty always has been skeptic-silencing.

But hoping for the resurrection of the real Donovan McNabb is one thing; expecting it to result again in the greatness budgeted for a former No. 2 overall draft pick would be derelict.There is no reason to resist acquiring the next franchise quarterback, or, if that quarterback is to be A.J. Feeley, preparing him that way --- no reason, that is, unless Reid still doesn’t feel like it.

"I’ll be ready if called upon," Feeley said. "That’s the way I approach it."

The Eagles won with Feeley when McNabb missed the final six regular-season games of 2002 with a broken ankle. Some players are best in such circumstances, and Feeley may be one. That’s an option, not only now, but for the future. Feeley is fluent in the Eagles’ offense and, while also 29 years old, has had both practical starting experience yet considerably less physical wear than McNabb.

So give him the first chance. But just give somebody a chance to develop as the Birds’ next franchise quarterback.

The Donovan McNabb Era, as it was meant to be, has ended much as it began --- in something other than applause.

To contact Jack McCaffery, e-mail sports@delcotimes.com

Guys, you need to know the following about the author of the article: 1. He knows his market - the negative Philly area sports fan.

2. He is also a talk-radio host in Philly, and his lack of knowledge shows.

3. He is possibly the worst sportswriter in the United States.

4. He's the SPORTS EDITOR at his paper the Delaware County Daily Times.

5. The section's strength is high school sports coverage, but they make factual errors there fairly often.

When he was just a idiot hack writing a crappy column, we got the paper, but when they made him the sports editor, I convinced my wife to allow me to cancel the paper immediately in lieu of a birthday gift. I told them why I cancelled as well.

Feel free to contact him, if he gets back to you (probably won't) you'll liekly be amused by what comes via e-mail.

Where to start with your misconceptions?1. Right on.

2. So wrong. He is one of the most knowledgeable columnist in the Delaware Valley.

3. I laugh at this.

4. No, he's not. He was. He gave that up SIX years ago.

5. Yes, the Daily Times covers high schools. It probably is the paper's strength. But it also has 3 of the 4 pro beats in Philadelphia for its chain because it has the best stable of reporters available.

Look, Jack is what a columnist is supposed to be - controversial. He tries to convey what the fans are thinking and give it perspective and depth.

As for this particular column, I didn't read it all. But from what I did read, he's right: They have to start looking for a QB of the future. They may have to revamp their outlook to where the offense isn't so reliant on No.5. Those are two very valid points.

 

[ThisGuy]

Fly, Eagles, Fly...

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Anyone who says this has amnesia. Rich Kotite?Marion Campbell?Ray Rhodes?There are flaws with every coach (AR = Playcalling and clock management), but overall, AR's not the root of the problem.

 

[pheagles]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Anyone who says this has amnesia. Rich Kotite?Marion Campbell?Ray Rhodes?There are flaws with every coach (AR = Playcalling and clock management), but overall, AR's not the root of the problem.

I have to respectfully disagree. The Bucs fans hads the same feeling about getting rid of Tony Dungy - who had resurrected their pathetic franchise into a perennial contender, but could not win the big one. Tampa's owners made the tough decision fire Dungy and go out and get Chucky, who promptly won them a Super Bowl, while Dungy is still a perennial contender in Indy but hasn't won anything. Right now, I would gladly trade a perenial contender coach for a single Super Bowl victory, even if we had to follow the same path as the Bucs and go backwards for the next few years. If we had won anything in the last 23 years, I may feel differently, but this is the sad reality. To watch this team "come out flat" four of the last five games has been a real eye-opener. Let's face it - these are Reid's players who are showing up unprepared, unmotivated and/or incapable of playing at the levels required to win in the NFL. He has no one else to blame here. I think he is a very good coach, but I am quickly losing confidence that an Andy Reid coached Eagles team will bring this great city the championship it desrves.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Anyone who says this has amnesia. Rich Kotite?Marion Campbell?Ray Rhodes?There are flaws with every coach (AR = Playcalling and clock management), but overall, AR's not the root of the problem.

I have to respectfully disagree. The Bucs fans hads the same feeling about getting rid of Tony Dungy - who had resurrected their pathetic franchise into a perennial contender, but could not win the big one. Tampa's owners made the tough decision fire Dungy and go out and get Chucky, who promptly won them a Super Bowl, while Dungy is still a perennial contender in Indy but hasn't won anything. Right now, I would gladly trade a perenial contender coach for a single Super Bowl victory, even if we had to follow the same path as the Bucs and go backwards for the next few years. If we had won anything in the last 23 years, I may feel differently, but this is the sad reality. To watch this team "come out flat" four of the last five games has been a real eye-opener. Let's face it - these are Reid's players who are showing up unprepared, unmotivated and/or incapable of playing at the levels required to win in the NFL. He has no one else to blame here. I think he is a very good coach, but I am quickly losing confidence that an Andy Reid coached Eagles team will bring this great city the championship it desrves.

pheagles,Fair enough, but I do NOT agree that a change merely for the sake of change is the way to go. That's a knee-jerk reaction and shouldn't be done.If we could get the next coach that would take us to that next level (and win), I'd agree - I just don't know who that is.It's the "bird in one hand" analogy. We may have only a Top 10 coach, but we still have a Top 10 coach. Guarantee me that the next guy is better and let's do it.I think a more focused AR with some of his weaker duties removed is the best approach. Take away the playcalls and clock management, and give him a legit assistant in the booth to say "throw a challenge" for him.

 

[redman]

pheagles,Fair enough, but I do NOT agree that a change merely for the sake of change is the way to go. That's a knee-jerk reaction and shouldn't be done.If we could get the next coach that would take us to that next level (and win), I'd agree - I just don't know who that is.It's the "bird in one hand" analogy. We may have only a Top 10 coach, but we still have a Top 10 coach. Guarantee me that the next guy is better and let's do it.I think a more focused AR with some of his weaker duties removed is the best approach. Take away the playcalls and clock management, and give him a legit assistant in the booth to say "throw a challenge" for him.

I can see taking away the GM and even the challenge flag hats from Reid, but taking away the play-calling seems impossible as a practical matter on that team. Offense is what he's known for. Who would you put in there (obviously against Reid's will) who would both be subordinate to Reid as head coach, but also feel independent enough to truly take play-calling out of Reid's hands? I just can't imagine such a set-up working. I think with Reid, you get the play-calling as part of his package . . . that is unless he voluntarily surrenders it.Also, to the extent that Reid is still the play-caller, how would you as a practical matter take away "clock management"? That seems inseparable to me from play-calling.

 

[Stillers Jr.]

Fly, Eagles, Fly...

hehe, if there's a silver lining, it will be many many months before I have to endure listening to this song.

 

[TCFF]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Anyone who says this has amnesia. Rich Kotite?Marion Campbell?Ray Rhodes?There are flaws with every coach (AR = Playcalling and clock management), but overall, AR's not the root of the problem.

If the problems are Playcalling, clock Management, and coming out flat (player motivation) then what is the root of the problem if it is not the coach? While I realize that there is no chance Reid gets canned, and he really shouldn't as he has certainly done enough to be given a number of second chances, the very least that needs to be done is that a message needs to be sent that he is not untouchable and that could be done as easily as reducing his role to just Head Coach and possibly demanding that a few assistants get replaced. While I do not think that McNabb is "done" a new player personnel guy would be wise to at least start thinking about what to do at QB down the road. If not this year, within the next 2-3 Philly would be well served to get McNabb's heir on the roster.

 

[hotdogcollars]

While I do not think that McNabb is "done" a new player personnel guy would be wise to at least start thinking about what to do at QB down the road. If not this year, within the next 2-3 Philly would be well served to get McNabb's heir on the roster.

100% agree with that

 

[pheagles]

I hear this Fire Reid talk. But that's not even remotely serious is it?Please tell me people are joking there.J

Anyone who says this has amnesia. Rich Kotite?Marion Campbell?Ray Rhodes?There are flaws with every coach (AR = Playcalling and clock management), but overall, AR's not the root of the problem.

I have to respectfully disagree. The Bucs fans hads the same feeling about getting rid of Tony Dungy - who had resurrected their pathetic franchise into a perennial contender, but could not win the big one. Tampa's owners made the tough decision fire Dungy and go out and get Chucky, who promptly won them a Super Bowl, while Dungy is still a perennial contender in Indy but hasn't won anything. Right now, I would gladly trade a perenial contender coach for a single Super Bowl victory, even if we had to follow the same path as the Bucs and go backwards for the next few years. If we had won anything in the last 23 years, I may feel differently, but this is the sad reality. To watch this team "come out flat" four of the last five games has been a real eye-opener. Let's face it - these are Reid's players who are showing up unprepared, unmotivated and/or incapable of playing at the levels required to win in the NFL. He has no one else to blame here. I think he is a very good coach, but I am quickly losing confidence that an Andy Reid coached Eagles team will bring this great city the championship it desrves.

pheagles,Fair enough, but I do NOT agree that a change merely for the sake of change is the way to go. That's a knee-jerk reaction and shouldn't be done.If we could get the next coach that would take us to that next level (and win), I'd agree - I just don't know who that is.It's the "bird in one hand" analogy. We may have only a Top 10 coach, but we still have a Top 10 coach. Guarantee me that the next guy is better and let's do it.I think a more focused AR with some of his weaker duties removed is the best approach. Take away the playcalls and clock management, and give him a legit assistant in the booth to say "throw a challenge" for him.

and the draft? i doubt he will give up that responsibility and his draft record is one of the main problems, IMO (for those who don't know, the GM here is an Andy guy and doesn't have real GM authority - he was given the title to keep him from leaving for a similar job)as for what coach? it seems there are rumors that both Jeff Fisher and Bill Cowher may be ready to move on after this year. i would think a real motivator-type if what this teams needs and both of those guys would fit that mantra. this is not a knee-jerk reaction, btw, this has been brewing for some time. like i said, 4 out of the last 5 games have been a disgrace. I would think that a capable business man (like Lurie is supposed to be) would be able to discretely talk to other potential people to gauge the availability a new, high quality coach, GM, or both. Part of the problem is that there is NO ONE in the organization that can or will make the decision to fire Andy and go get their guy who they feel can lead this team to a championship. Lurie/Banner simply look at the $$$$$$$ aspect, and that will always look good because Iggles fans won't give up their season tix (and the NFL is huge $$$ generator). Alas, change will not come quickly enough and we will miss out on the best coaching candidates...and the drought will continue...ugh. Happy Thanksgiving!

 

[drdgreenlove]

First off, I think next season is a losing proposition as well if we pin all our hopes on mcnabb.. we saw how culpepper played this year.. now mcnabb was better preinjury than duante and may not have screwed up his knee as much

but i fear mcnabb may not be as nimble as he was. He has become a pocket passer but if he is less elusive, he may be more like a leftwich statue

Reid should go... he had a great run but realistically its time to move on. He doesnt have the fire to build again, is too stubborn in his ways and loyalties.

For years we have said we need a bruising RB to complement Westy, a few LBs, more running on offense etc...

Many of the losses this year have been inexcusable. A real manly coach like Parcells or Coughlin would not tolerate that.. Andy just thinks "we'll be fine there"

RIP Andre

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Also, to the extent that Reid is still the play-caller, how would you as a practical matter take away "clock management"? That seems inseparable to me from play-calling.

There should be an assistant coach who's role on gameday is to be responsible for time management, especially in the 2-minute and 4-minute drills. They say when to call timeouts and also when to emphasize to the QB / McNabb when not to take a sack, throw short of the end zone, etc. Far too many points were lost over the past few years due to this, and only fans of Philly who followed closely saw this fatal flaw before the Super Bowl.