Confidence

"You don't see just how wild the crowd is, you don't see just how fly my style is..."

Kanye West - Champion

The only thing constant in this world is change, and so far this year has been like none other. Obviously it's a shortened 66-game season...but one team has learned to take every advantage, capitalizing on their cohesive nature, and never quit attitude.

Guts

The Philadelphia 76ers defended their home court on Monday night against a fired up Kobe Bryant and his Los Angeles Lakers. It was a game of two halves as Bryant had a blistering 24-points at intermission, but it was the superb shooting of Lou Williams who amassed 14-points in the 4th quarter to carry the Sixers to a 95-90 victory.

The stakes were high as a sold out Wells Fargo Center rocked with a chorus of Sixers and Lakers fans, not too mention the celebrities in attendance which would rival a who's who at the Staples Center including, actor Terrence Howard, rapper Meek Mill, and Philadelphia Eagles players Lesean McCoy, and Desean Jackson. On top of all that, Bryant moved into 5th place in the NBA's all-time scoring list during the 2nd quarter...however the 76ers stayed within striking distance to set the stage for a Lou Williams scoring binge that included 7-straight points that broke the Lakers back.

When asked about the final period, Williams stated, "that's the quarter when you win, that's where you make it happen. From the stat of my basketball career and for as long as I could remember, I've always played well in the 4th quarter, because I know that's the most important time of a basketball game. I've been blessed to be put in the position professionally where I have a coach and teammates that understand that about my game, and put the ball in my hands."

Philadelphia is leading the Atlantic Division with an 18-7 record, and while this team doesn't get the national recognition they rightfully deserve, they continue to press forward, and win games.

Words: @axgilbert

Photo: Associated Press

Return to Glory

"I wish I could give you this feeling, I'm planking on a million..."

Jay-Z - Gotta Have It

The NFL playoffs have begun and the NFC Divisional game yesterday proved something that I witnessed on Sunday, October 2, 2011.

Business as usual

When I was child all of my friends either cheered for the hometown team, or the San Francisco 49ers, and the reason is simple...as kids growing up on the east coast it was easy to see the greatness of the franchise that had players like Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Roger Craig, Steve Young, Ronnie Lott, John Taylor, and Deion Sanders.

The 49ers played the Philadelphia Eagles this season, and once the dust settled, it was evident that this team had plenty of fight, and a never quit attitude. On Saturday afternoon they proved to the world their legitimacy in an intense 36-32 victory over the New Orleans Saints.

San Francisco was able to keep their composure on offense, defense, and special teams, in a game that had several lead changes, and 5 costly turnovers by the Saints. Nevertheless, Drew Brees completed a touchdown pass with 1:37 to go in the 4th quarter, setting the stage for Alex Smith to throw the winning 14-yard touchdown to Vernon Davis with 9 seconds left.

The 49ers are back in the NFC Championship game, and from here, anything they accomplish shouldn't take anyone by surprise. 

In the meantime, we'll wait and see.

Words: @axgilbert

Photo: Associated Press

Redeem Team

New Edition

"Won't you help to sing...these songs of freedom..."

Bob Marley - Redemption Song

As the NFL season shifts gears from training camp to the preseason...a lot of talk has been about Tom Brady and his return from injury...however there is another quarterback that didn't play last year...and he has dominated his fair share of headlines too.

Thriller

I have always said that sports are a mirror of life, and nothing proves that statement more than the unpredictable Philadelphia Eagles signing of Michael Vick. The home team just gave Donovan McNabb a healthy extension on his contact, so to the untrained eye...the new acquisition makes zero sense. However it's quite to contrary and here are a few reason why:

• Backup QB Kevin Kolb was drafted in 2007, and while he was given a few key opportunities to shine...he has yet to pan out, as a reliable 2nd or 3rd string. To add a strain of difficultly to this scenario...he was injured recently towards the end of training camp.
• Donovan McNabb is and will be the main guy in Philadelphia...however if he gets hurt during a game, or has to miss games due to injury...then having Vick on the bench to fill in, is a great insurance policy for this team's high powered West Coast Offense.
• Vick will serve a suspension to start the season, so he will have time to learn the plays, fellowship with his teammates, and get comfortable being in his own skin, as he gets readjusted to life in the NFL.
• Life is about change, as it is one of the more constant things in this world...so for Michael Vick, who I believe can still play and excel on a high level...will have McNabb to learn from, and a team that played in the NFC Championship last season to add to.

This is a good sign for what is yet to come from the Eagles, and the silky smooth, left handed, hurler from Virgina...Michael Vick.

Sunset

Genius

"A man dies, a baby is born..."

50 Cent - Ryder Music

The Philadelphia Eagles Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson succumbed to his battle with cancer today.

Defensive Minded

Earlier today I was hanging with one of my friends, Lorenzo Booker...I hadn't seen him since the NFC Championship, so after catching up and making plans to hang out before the season starts, I had no idea that a few hours later, I'd text with him about the death of Coach Jim Johnson.

I'm going to keep this post short, as it just really goes to show you how precious life really is. Please tell your family and close ones how important they are, and how much you love them in words and actions.

The Eagles will remember Coach this season, as he has been the mastermind behind the defense that has been ranked tops in the NFL during his tenure in South Philly.

Flight School

Determination

AG and AI after practice

"I holla at AI peoples..."

50 Cent - Ski Mask Way

Andre Iguodala and the Philadelphia 76ers have managed to turn things around...recently winning their last 5 games. Iguodala scored a season-high 29 points yesterday. Over the past 21 games, he is averaging 20.4 points and has scored 20+ points in nine of the past 12 games.

Home Improvement

In the midst of the Philadelphia Eagles playoff success, the team across 11th Street...the Sixers, have been playing well lately in their own right. Maurice Cheeks was fired as head coach, and Elton Brand has been sidelined with a shoulder injury...and while these two instances could derail most teams...it has been a test that the home team could handle, as they have improved their record, to 18-20, after winning on Wednesday night 100-79, over the visiting Trail Blazers.

AI had 14 points, 2 assists, and 2 steals in the 1st quarter, as the 76ers jumped out to a 31-15 lead, holding Greg Oden, Brandon Roy, and LaMarcus Aldridge to a combined 6 points. 

By the half, AI and company led 55-33, so I steered my focus on my questions for after the game. 

In the end, I attended head coach Tony DiLeo's press conference, and then I proceeded to the locker room to catch up with Iguodala.

Here is the final score on our conversations:

GAME TIME with AG: Coach can you talk about the ball movement...you had three guys with 6 assists...offensively things are looking really good as of late: 

Tony DiLeo: "Yeah the spacing is good...the half court execution looks good...the timing, we've worked on that...it's a credit to this team. They're out there passing the ball, they're looking for other people...very unselfish team."

GAME TIME with AG: Can you talk about Andre Iguodala, and his play tonight?

Tony DiLeo: "You know, I probably don't give Andre enough credit...in these press conferences I like to point out guys...you know sometimes I think we take Andre for granted, but he's been playing at a high, high level. And you know last week, I thought he had a chance for Player of the Week honors, but unfortunately he didn't get it...maybe he'll get it this week?"

GAME TIME with AG: What has been the key to the 5-straight wins?

Andre Iguodala: "Our defense has been a lot better! We've gotten stops when we needed to...getting the rebounds, and getting out on the break, the game's a lot easier when we get stops."

GAME TIME with AG: Coach talked about this team having a green light to shoot offensively...what does that do for your game personally?

Andre Iguodala: "Well it's the confidence factor, where you just feel like you can make any shot, so you know...you shoot it in rhythm, you shoot it with confidence, and more than likely...it's going to go in."

GAME TIME with AG: Coming out of Arizona, your game was steady, with a lot of double-doubles...when you first came into the League the focus was defense, now you've matured in this league, and you can score whenever you want...you're getting back to that college game, is defense still the focus for you?

Andre Iguodala: "Yeah...I think that it has to be...to try to be as a complete player as possible, and I think that's what separates me from other guys. LeBron's doing that now...he's blocking shots...it's like you have to be at a high level at all times to be a complete player, and that's what I'm trying to be. You know you have some guys who are shooters and that's it...if they're not making shots then they're on the bench. So I'm just trying to be a factor in every facet on the floor, and being out there and being effective."

GAME TIME with AG: Talk about playing defense:

Andre Iguodala: "Some nights I might match up with like, a Carmelo [Anthony], but also I have to make those guys work when I'm on the offense end...when they're on defense, you know...just making the game tough on them. It's harder than what people think, you know you have to go out here, and I only had a few points against Charlotte but, I had to guard [Gerald] Wallace, and that's a big match up...and I was able to get him out of the game, and we ended up winning, and people don't see that, but that's just a part of me being a complete player, and understanding doing whatever it takes for us to win."

GAME TIME with AG: Coach talked about you should have gotten NBA Player of the Week honors, do you think about those types of things?

Andre Iguodala: "Yeah...one thing is...if you get wins, you get noticed more, and we always seem to get it going too late, but I think the Player of the Week thing is something that you try to be complete every game, consistently...and that's what I'm trying to do. Just not for the week, but for the month, but more so for myself, and not being noticed, I know I've been playing better as of late, and I just have to keep it going."

GAME TIME with AG: Does this season remind you of last year?

Andre Iguodala: "I think it reminds me a little bit, because of the way we started off a little slow, and then we got it going. But before...last year it took us until after the All-Star break, and I think this year, if we keep playing the way we are, we can get it going earlier, and get a better start. I think now we understand how important our finish is late in the season to get a playoff spot...a good one."

GAME TIME with AG: Does the Eagles success have anything to do with your team, or are you just trying to play your game?

Andre Iguodala: "I think we are just trying to play our game, but I told the guys 3-weeks ago that the Eagles were going to the Super Bowl, and they thought I was crazy. I said if they beat the Cowboys...then they're going to the Super Bowl. I'm not an Eagles fan, but I said they was going to go...I said that on our west coast trip and they thought I was crazy! I said if the Raiders win, and the Bears lose...I said something has to be going on, and if they get the win against the Cowboys...then they gotta go, it's too crazy...that was crazy, and now they're on their way!

GAME TIME with AG: Talk about Donovan McNabb:

Andre Iguodala: "McNabb, that's my dude, so I'm hoping he gets one [ring]...the media needs to get off his back!"

The hard work and determination is paying off for the Philadelphia 76ers, and while Iguodala is a San Francisco 49ers fan, he at least can tell a winner when he sees one, as I look forward to continuing this conversation later at practice.

The Buffalo Syndrome

'Mo Betta Blues

“The Buffalo Soldiers, dredlock Rasta’s...”

Lauren Hill – Ready Or Not

The Philadelphia Eagles will enter their 5th NFC Championship game (6th in team history) within the last 8 years, and what’s more surprising than the Eagles opportunity at a Super Bowl berth...is the fact that they will face the Arizona Cardinals.

Bridesmaid, never the bride

The Eagles tied the Bengals (week 11), and lost to the Ravens (week 12), while the Cardinals lost 4 of their last 5 games of the regular season, as no one saw this day approaching, and that’s why the NFL is so great...especially this year. The two teams did meet in Philly, during a week 13, battle of the Birds, on Thanksgiving, with the Eagles prevailing 48-20. The Eagles are the favorite to advance this Sunday, but if they lose either the NFC Championship game or the Super Bowl, then they will qualify for an infamous title, that only the Buffalo Bills fans could understand. Misery loves company, so I wouldn’t be surprised if their fans welcomed Eagles revelers with open arms.

So how tortured are the fans that cheer in the frozen artic of Ralph Wilson Stadium...to put it simply, it’s like being a Red Sox fan circa October 1986. The Bills were a superb team in their days of AFL supremacy, winning back to back titles in ’64, and ’65...prior to the AFL/NFL merger. Since those glory days of yesteryear they returned to a quasi state of prominence beginning in 1990.

Buffalo won the AFC Championship in 1990, 1991, 1992, and again in 1993, however in these four straight trips to the big show, they came up empty each and every time...making their dominance over the AFC, more of a late night talk show hosts’ joke, than any point of strength.

The Atlanta Braves had their fair share of World Series let downs; however they earned their respect from the sports world, by winning it all in 1995 over the Cleveland Indians. The Eagles can equally erase the losses of their past, by winning a Super Bowl within this Andy Reid/Donovan McNabb era. Like the Bills, the Eagles have never won the BIG game, as they boast 2 NFC Championship Trophies, and 3 NFL Championships, ’48, ’49, and ’60. The first Super Bowl was played 7 years later on January 15, 1967, thus diminishing the luster of the Eagles’ 3 NFL Championships.

In life and in sport, things don’t always work out the way they should, but all the ‘Birds (Eagles) have to do, is win...it sounds easy, but it’s not.

Any loss within the next two games would prove to be quite the conundrum. The expectations in the City of Brotherly Love are high, after the Eagles did the impossible by not only making the playoffs, but they have beaten the defending champions, as well as the Minnesota Vikings. The Phillies sparked the retro feelings of 1980, and with victories in the next two games, the Eagles can bring to fruition, what was once a childhood dream.
These are interesting times, as a new President will take office next week, and Philadelphia could possibly emerge as TITLETOWN USA.

Final Four

Superior

All-Pro

Power

Freshman Year

"No one on the corner have swagga like us..."

M.I.A. - Paper Planes

This has been one of the most interesting seasons within the history of the NFL. Not only are the Arizona Cardinals and Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship, but Rookie quarterback Joe Flacco has led...along with a top tier defense...the Baltimore Raves to the AFC title game. 

Surprise Party

January 11, 2009

The Philadelphia Eagles are headed to Arizona to play in their 5th NFC Championship game in the Andy Reid/Donovan McNabb era, after defeating the defending Super Bowl champion New York Football Giants, 23-11. Coach Reid went on record after the game, saying "He [McNabb] is the best quarterback in the NFL..."

Donovan McNabb had 217 passing yards, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions...good enough to play another game. Cornerback Asante Samuel had a key interception in the first half which translated into a field goal, by David Ackers. The absence of wide receiver Plaxico Burress was evident as the Giants offense limped to a total of 11-points.

The Pittsburgh Steelers continued their winning ways overcoming a early 7-0 deficit, defending their home turf over the San Diego Chargers 35-24. Willie Parker had 146 yards on the ground, along with 2 touchdowns. The Steelers will play at home next week, against their rival Baltimore Ravens.

January 10, 2009

The Baltimore Ravens used their trademark attacking/take away defense against the host Tennessee Titans, causing 3 turnovers, while holding them to 10 points...winning in a close battle 13-10. Matt Stover kicked a 43-yard field goal with 53 seconds left to seal it. Rookie quarterback Joe Flacco continued to amaze with 161-passing yards, and 1 touchdown.

6 turnovers doomed Carolina, as Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald, Edgerrin James, and the Cardinal defense feasted on the home team Panthers. The Arizona Cardinals win easily 33-13, stunning the favorite Panthers. Carolina quarterback Jake Delhomme threw 5 interceptions.

It was just a few weeks ago when at least 2 of these final teams were written off by the fans and experts alike...it just goes to so you that in the NFL...all that glitters isn't gold.

Photos: McNabb - AP Photo/Julie Jacobson

Parker - AP Photo/Keith Srakocic

Flacco - AP/Photo/Wade Payne

Fitzgerald - AP/Photo/Rick Havner

Action Jackson

Success

"She like listen Jigga man, I don't care if you rap...you better R-E-S-P-E-C-T me..."

Jay-Z - Girls, Girls, Girls

The Philadelphia Eagles are getting the acclaim that was missing during most of the season...so I find it interesting that rookie wide receiver DeSean Jackson is on the cover of Sports Illustrated...however I'd rather see the Birds get national recognition, better late than never.

Growing Pains

Pop quiz...who was the 49th pick of the 2008 NFL Draft...if you said DeSean Jackson, then you are not only correct...you are more than likely an Eagles fan. Born December 1, 1986, and standing at a mere 5'10"...the speedy wide out has made a name for himself this season. As a top selection in the draft, the eyes were on him, especially in Philadelphia, and playing within the Andy Reid west coast offense along with Brian Westbrook, and Donovan McNabb, he has had more than his fair share of opportunities to contribute to the team. 

He is most known for his superb play against the rival Dallas Cowboys early in the season, in which he purposely dropped a touchdown pass in error, celebrating prematurely. It's a long season, and Jackson has not only matured, he has grown as an athlete, as he and his teammates will travel north on I-95 this weekend, to square off against the New York Football Giants. 

Is this cover a sign of good things to come for DeSean Jackson and company...only time will tell.

Photo: Sports Illustrated/www.si.com

1 Game at a Time

Poise

Attrition

"Brothers front, they say the Tribe can't flow, but we've been know to do the impossible like Broadway Joe..."

Phife Dog - Scenario

Yesterday I was having a conversation with one of the Philadelphia Eagles. It was off the record so I'll keep his jersey number to myself. However after visiting with him and his family, I drove home thinking to myself that the Birds could be on the cusp of something special.

Winning is an attitude

Philadelphia could very well become a major sports city, much like Boston, as the great New England city of the north, has become the modern day Title Town...with the Celtics, Red Sox, and Patriots, as they have been the toast of the sports world winning championships in recent years. 

The now defunct Philadelphia Soul won the Arena Bowl in July, the Phillies captured hearts, minds, and the World Series in October, and now the Eagles have shocked the so-called "experts" by not only making the playoffs, but also through winning and moving on to the Divisional round.

It's one game at a time, and in football anything can happen...on any given Sunday.

Photos: Webster Riddick

Birds of a Feather

Defense first

Accuracy

Prowess

"Like a running back...get it man? I'm straight off the block...I can run it back..."

Jay-Z - Dirt Off Your Shoulder

I've been in a Maryland state of mind...which is only natural because I'm always there, however yesterday I was thinking about the two places in which I live, Philadelphia and Prince George's County, MD...the main reason was because both the Eagles and Ravens won their respective playoff games, as they relied on their defense and balanced offensive attacks.

Prey

The NFL Playoffs have begun, and while I wasn't in attendance for any of the games...I'd like to take a moment to at least list the scores of the games, as we anticipate the Divisional rounds this weekend.

Before I list the results, I just wanted to note that I'm extremely proud of the Philadelphia Eagles as the so called experts had written them off, because of the play from Donovan McNabb. However McNabb had a stellar year (3,916 yards 23 touchdowns, 86.4 passer rating), and even though the team finished with a 9-6-1 record...they still make it to the playoffs, winning yesterday 26-14 on the road against the Minnesota Vikings. 

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Arizona Cardinals 30

Atlanta Falcons 24

San Diego Chargers 23

Indianapolis Colts 17

Sunday, January 4, 2009

Baltimore Ravens 27

Miami Dolphins  9

Philadelphia Eagles 26

Minnesota Vikings 14

Photos: Wester Riddick

Joel Auerbach/US Presswire

Week 17

Controlled anger

Carmichael and McNabb

High 5

Unity

Swoop

"It ain't hard to tell, I excel, then prevail..."

Nas - It Ain't Hard to Tell

The NFL is the best sport in these United States, as this season has turned out to be a memorable one. The Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, and Miami Dolphins, are back in the playoffs, and the early Super Bowl favorite Dallas Cowboys were knocked out of contention by their rival Philadelphia Eagles, making the last week of the regular season a television ratings dream, just in time for the post season.

Birds of Prey

A few scenarios had to take place in order for the Philadelphia Eagles to make a return trip to the playoffs in an NFC Wild Card match against the Minnesota Vikings. First and foremost the 'birds needed losses from both Tampa Bay, and Chicago...and if that happened, the last task on the list, was to defeat the Dallas Cowboys in a winner takes all match in South Philly.

The game began at 4:15pm and at approximately 4:00pm the Bucs as well as the Bears were playing to a losing effort, setting the stage for the Eagles to play like there was no tomorrow. I arrived to the stadium by noon, and everything, from man to beast was electric in preparation for the game. And by no means was this just another match-up between division foes, it was another chapter in the historic clash of the titans, that has become Philadelphia versus Dallas.

Everything was on the line, from a playoff berth, to bragging rights, and the home team did everything right, after recovering from an early Brian Westbrook fumble in the 1st quarter. By the end of the 2nd quarter the press box noise level had risen from a quiet whisper to a full roar, turning us "unbiased" members of the media into full fledged fans.

At halftime I sat with my fellow writers and personalities, Hugh Douglas, Ike Reece, Michael Tillery, and Stephen A. Smith. We conversed on the game, and other topics, like why does the main stream media have such a love affair with Bret Farve? I like Farve, however...to quote Muddy Waters...Jet Farve is not "the greatest man alive", or quarterback either, nevertheless it was good to talk shop with the guys, and afterward I had opportunities to take in the press conferences with both teams.

The Eagles locker room was full of accomplishment, and focus, but when I ventured into the Cowboys side of the hallway, the first thing I heard was that Tony Romo collapsed in the shower and needed the attention of the trainers. I then headed over to Terrell Owens to catch up with him for a spell and to wish him a Happy New Year. I wasn't trying to be sarcastic, yet I was sincere because he and I developed a good friendship during his days as an Eagle. He seemed to take the Eagles 44-6 victory in stride, knowing that the media and fans couldn't blame this loss on him, even though they might try.

The following are questions and answers from both teams, and their press conferences:

QB Donovan McNabb

On reading his critics and the revival of his game this season:
“No. I’ve been kind of revived I guess. They’ve [critics] thrown me out, they ran over me, spit on me…but you know what…I just continue to prevail. I just continue to keep my chin high…stay positive, and just make sure that guys in this locker room understand that if given the opportunity…that we will take full advantage of it. Knowing that last week just wasn’t us, and if anything worked in our favor, with all these scenarios, that I would not let them down.”

On keeping his head up through all the adversity:
“You know what…I think it’s easier now, and I say that because I’ve been through those types of experiences for years. I think when you go through something for the first or second time; you don’t know how to handle it. But me being apart of something like that, and it happens, over, and over, and over again…the way that I continue to show that it never affects me, is by just going out and doing my job.”

On getting tired of hearing the negative talk:
“We’re human beings, you get tired of it, but you never let them see you sweat. And you never show that it bothers you because you kill them with kindness, and when you kill them with kindness and you go out and you do your job, people understand that it never really affects you.”

On the range of emotions prior to the game, with a chance at a playoff berth:
“You know what, I think of last week, and no matter what has happened we all have something to play for. And this week we play for pride and we play for each other. And we couldn’t control anything that happened in Tampa, we couldn’t control anything in Minnesota or the Houston/Chicago game…what we could control is what happened out there today, and you saw a team that was resilient, you saw a team that played with a lot of emotion…and once we got word that there was an opportunity, that the door was open, this team played with a lot of passion. Still knowing that we had our pride on the line, to come out here and defend what happened last week, and with this opportunity that was granted to us…to make sure we take full advantage of it.”

On his career and accolades:

“You know what…you never get enough credit until you’re gone, and I’m not looking for any credit right now, I’m just looking for this team…all 52 guys in this locker room to be ready to roll for next week, and if we continue to win, a positive outlook will be looked upon.”

On the 59-yard play by RB Correll Buckhalter:
“They did a good job of covering up the left running lanes, I was able to bide time. Buck did an excellent of job of just staying on the move, and I was able to get it over one of the defensive tackles arm, and Buck did an excellent job of just finishing the play. You just want to give guys an opportunity to make plays for you, and Buck did a wonderful job picking yards after the catch.”

On facing Minnesota Head Coach Brad Childress:
“Brad is a good friend of mine…we talk occasionally, you know I also have my offensive coordinator and quarterback coach from college over there as well [Kevin Rogers], so we talk. I’m really happy for Brad…everyone pretty much counted them out in the beginning when he pretty much benched Tavarus and went with Gus, and they were able to rally behind Gus…all of a sudden now Tavarus is back at the starter, and they’re rallying behind Tavarus, and you are seeing a team that has truly bought into Brad’s philosophy and they seem to be playing well, with a lot of intensity…knowing what was on the line they still played well, so I’m happy for him. Now with that said, come Saturday or Sunday when we play…we’re enemies.”

RB Brian Westbrook

On keeping the faith after last week’s loss:
“I think everybody, their goal was to go out and win this football game. Not worry about what would happen in Tampa Bay and not worry what would happen in Chicago, but to go out there and win this football game and we did that and strange things happen in the NFL.”

On how special the experience was today:
“It was very special. It’s special that all those other things happened, but for us to go out there and put a defensive show on like we did. Offensively, we did very well but our defense ran the show today and I don’t know how many points they scored, either 14 or 21, but they did a great job.”

On whether he can put his finger on the one thing that opened Pandora’s Box today:
“I just think that the defense was getting turnovers. Correll Buckhalter came in there and lit it up, in the running game as well as the passing game. You know, our guys wanted it more than they wanted it and that was the biggest difference.”

On when he knew the Eagles’ destiny was in their own hands:
“I think right before the game one of the assistants came up to me and let us know that both the teams had lost that we needed to lose and now it was up to us and we went out there and handled our business.”

CB Sheldon Brown

On whether the team feels renewed with the new life they have entering the playoffs:
“The postseason is a new and full season in itself. You have the preseason, regular season, and then the postseason. Anything goes once you get into the postseason. We have a great opportunity ahead of us. There are still things we need to work on, I know that. But this has been a magical season with everything that has happened.”

On FS Brian Dawkins’ leadership:
“There may be some ‘nay-sayers’ and people who don’t think he deserves this award but he’s been doing this his whole career. Not a better time, against a better team, in a better place.”

On the team’s thoughts towards the Minnesota Vikings:
“Brad Childress, we’re coming to town.”

On the defense’s ability to get turnovers tonight:
“I haven’t seen a season like this; turnovers or anything. This game is one of those rivalries where you think it’s going to be a close game at the end, but for it to go in the manner it did. Just the season alone. I guess a tie is better than a loss after all.”

DE Darren Howard

On the defense’s ability to get pressure on QB Tony Romo:
“It’s a lot easier when you stop the run and put up a lot of points like that, that’s our kind of defense. We stopped the run early, then you get a team into a third and long, or second and long situation, you just pin your ears back and go. And that was pretty much the game plan, was the second half so if we get anything like that, we have a good chance to everything we did today.”

On DE Chris Clemens’ fumble recovery for a touchdown:
“I wasn’t watching him, I was running in front of him and then I went straight to the oxygen tank after that.”

On FS Brian Dawkins’ emotional leadership:
“Dawkins is just a constant in this locker room. Whether it’s a preseason game, or a huge game like this, he’s always pumped up and he’s always trying to get everyone motivated. It was no different tonight. He goes out there and he says what’s on his mind and he expects everybody on this team to give what he has given.

Head Coach Andy Reid

On injuries sustained during the game:
“[DE Chris] Clemons and [FS Brian] Dawkins cramped and came in [the locker room] for an IV.”

On the victory:
“I thought the fans were awesome. What a great job they did of keeping the noise level up for [Dallas QB] Tony [Romo] and the Cowboys. I thought turnovers obviously were big. I’d also like to thank the Oakland Raiders and the Houston Texans. They both did a heck of a job today. I’m very proud of our guys. They very easily could have lost the faith and not prepared themselves right for today. Right from the get-go, it was all about the Cowboys. They weren’t worried about anything that would happen or any of the scenarios today. I’m proud of them, because that’s the only way you can to that. It’s very hard to do, and they did it. I’m not exactly sure what day we’re playing next week, but it looks like we’re playing Minnesota. We’ll worry about that after we enjoy this win here tonight.”

On whether this win offers him any personal vindication:
“This is the NFL. I’m proud of the guys, but we’re not done yet. We got to the doorstep, but now we have to climb up the steps and get in.”

On when he learned the Eagles controlled their own playoff destiny due to the losses by Tampa Bay and Chicago:
“When we went out onto the field.”

On whether he watched any of the other three games which impacted the Eagles playoff chances:
“I didn’t watch a single snap. Those things rip your heart out when you’re watching them. I let other people tell me, and I figured the fans would let us know once we got out there.”

On the play of quarterback Donovan McNabb:
“I thought he did a great job of managing the football game all the way around – preparing himself during the week and showing the rest of the players how to do the thing the right way. I thought the leadership of him and Dawk [S Brian Dawkins] was invaluable for this week.”

On his elation with the outcomes considering where the Eagles stood at the beginning of the day:
“I’m enjoying this moment right now. You couldn’t have drawn it up any better than it happened today. It came right down to December 28. It was awesome to see Lincoln Financial Field electric like that. It’s what this league is all about.”

Head Coach Wade Phillips

On his thoughts regarding the game:
“There’s not much I can say about this one. It was a disaster from the opening kickoff, from kicking the ball out of bounds, to two 80 or 90-yard plays to start off the second half when we had a chance to get it back to 21-17 or something like that. We had everything to play for. I think that the turnovers that haunted us all season ended up really hurting us in terms of not getting enough turnovers on defense and giving up too many offensively. We got by with it a lot of the year and won a lot of games, but we were minus 1 or 2 in the turnover ratio and that ended up getting us. It obviously wasn’t penalties, it was turnovers.”

On whether the Eagles got more of an emotional lift from knowing they could reach the playoffs with a win:
“Well obviously we didn’t play well enough. They played well and I expected them to play well, but I expected them to play like that no matter what. Obviously, I expected us to play better.”

On his perspective of the entire season:
“It’s hard right now. We had everything riding on this and we didn’t step up to the plate. It’s hard to look at the whole season right now.”

On not making the playoffs:
“Well, I mean that’s where we are right now. There wasn’t a player or coach in there that thought we weren’t going to win that game, but we didn’t.”

On why the team didn’t step it up when they were only one game away from making the playoffs:
“If I had an answer, we wouldn’t have done that. We started out kicking the ball out of bounds on the first kickoff and it hurt us position wise. The 10 points to start the half were big and those two turnovers really put us out of reach. And then of course the two touchdowns in the first two series of the second half where we got down inside the 20 yard line both times. I can’t explain those.”

On whether the turnovers were due to QB Tony Romo being careless:
“Well, they made the plays and we didn’t. We didn’t make their quarterback do those things, so I think it was both parties.”

On what he told the team after the game:
“There’s not much you can say after a game like this. The season’s over obviously. We will meet tomorrow, but it’s an utter disappointment. That’s all you can think about right now.”

Dallas Owner Jerry Jones

On what he will be looking for offensively next season:
“I am looking to have the same offensive coordinators and I will be looking for some continuity. I will be looking for the best ways for us to address what we want to do to win games. I think there are some things that we will need to do better and I have had to look at this many times in my life. I have been saying for weeks that I really think that we will not be changing our coaching.”

On what needs to change to have his coaches win big games:
“I think we will look at [QB Tony] Romo and have another year that I hope he can make us better. I think it will help in a big way. I would like to see some more continuity on offense and the quarterback position is such an important position.”

On whether he was embarrassed with such a loss:
“I am about every way you can to explain about feeling embarrassed. We did not play to what my expectations were this season. We did not score a touchdown and I really think that that is telling in itself. We ended up with five turnovers in the game and that is not a good thing. We were not effective at scoring in this game at all. I think that [QB Donovan] McNabb was McNabb in that he played really well. I think offensively the Eagles really made some big plays.”

On what he likes about Wade Phillips as a coach:
“I really like the experience that he brings to us. I like that he is willing to really develop players and the things that he sees. He is really flexible and he is great and having players to adjust to his schemes. A lot of coaches talk that they will do that but not do it and he does.”

TE Jason Witten

On his feelings about the game:
“The Eagles played a lot better than us obviously. It is just really hard to see your season go down the way that it has. All the expectations of this year and unfortunately things did not go our way. It is just disappointing.”

On where they go from here:
“That is going to be the hard part because we did not make the playoffs and it is going to be a long off season. The next season will not be able to get here quick enough for a lot of us. We have a lot to evaluate and we just need to get better.”

On what happened with the offense this month:
“I think over the last month we played some of the best defenses in the league. We just did not execute the way that we should of. The great thing though about this team is that we have a lot of play makers on this team still. We still have a great offensive line and on offense when things got tough we always seemed to make the big plays.”

On whether he thinks team chemistry will be given a lot of the blame:
“I think this team is fine. We had a couple of things come up this season but I do not think anything was bad enough to affect the team. I was the middle of things but it got blown way out of proportion. It all comes down to making plays and executing.”

And that's the way it was...Philadelphia 44, Dallas 6.

Monday Night Lights

Intensity

Precision

"It's a thin line between love and hate..."

The Persuaders - Thin Line Between Love and Hate

Last night the Philadelphia Eagles managed to stay alive in the playoff hunt, by defeating the hapless Cleveland Browns 30-10 on a soggy Monday Night Football. This as every game from now on, was a must win for the 'Birds. Donovan McNabb threw for 290-yards with two touchdowns, Brian Westbrook had 53-yards on 16 carries, but it was his chasing of Brandon McDonald that made a big difference before the end of the 1st half. Had McDonald scored off the interception of McNabb, things could have been to say the least interesting. McDonald scored on his second interception, picking Kevin Kolb off in the 4th quarter...but by then it was too little, too late for the Browns, as their record falls to 4-10.

I had an opportunity to catch up with McNabb and Westbrook after the game. Here is the final score on our conversation:

GAME TIME: Talk about the 3-game win streak:

Donovan McNabb: "[They don't remember how you play] early in the season; they always remember how you are playing toward the end, and hopefully things will work out well, but we have to enjoy this win now and get ready for Washington next week...and see where it takes us."

GAME TIME: How do you feel about the way things have been the past couple of weeks?

Donovan McNabb: "I'm always happy. I'm happy to be out here just playing football and that's the most important thing. That's something that I told myself...that no matter what situation I'm in...I'm going to have a ball out here, and the people around me are going to enjoy it too! You will always see a smile on my face and hopefully that will [translate] to our play. But right now we are excited about where we are and we are going to enjoy this win, in this nice rain."

GAME TIME: What happened out there tonight, what did the Eagles do best?

Donovan McNabb: "It's always good when you kind of have a balanced attack defense that's really firing off. I think offensively, we are getting back to what we know and that's the most important thing. I thought we got a little away from things, but now we're on key and guys are making plays, getting back to business-trusting they guys, the guys trusting me. We're [putting] the ball out there and guys are catching it and getting up field. [We're] establishing the run and giving [Brian] Westbrook an opportunity. So, it's important that time of possession is something that we are keeping their offense off of the field and we are coming out with points. Yeah, we know we didn't score a touchdown from the red zone, but that's correctable. We've had that problem earlier on and we corrected that so we know that we can correct that and get going."

GAME TIME: What does the team have to do to make the playoffs?

Brian Westbrook: "We are just going to continue to play hard and win our next two games. At this point all we can do is control what we do on the field. We are going to go out there and play hard against the Redskins next week...try to get a win, and hope for the best."

GAME TIME: What was the team focus tonight?

Brian Westbrook: The focus was on us not playing the team's record, but playing the team. Based on their record they were not so good, but we saw what they could do on tape, and we knew that they were a good team. We had to go out there and give everything we had. We started out fast. We were not getting in the end zone like we should have, but we played well in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarters. Our defense got in the end zone for us and that always helps."

GAME TIME: How will the team correct the problems in the Red Zone?

Brian Westbrook: "We keep pushing. They did a couple of things out there against us, but we will keep pushing. We will continue to keep working. We will fix those problems."

GAME TIME: Talk about your younger brother's team the Washington Redskins:

Brian Westbrook: "They are a very good football team. They have not been playing well as of late, but they are still a very good football team, with a lot of talented players. We have to go down there and get a win in someone else's house and that is always a challenge for us."

GAME TIME: Talk about the play of Donovan McNabb over the past three weeks:

Brian Westbrook: "He's very accurate. He's been doing a great job of throwing the ball over the middle. We have not been going as deep as we had in the past. He is doing a great job of getting the ball to the receivers and that is what we expect. He continues to lead this team. He is the guy that we need and that is what we expect from him."

Anything can happen in the NFL, and at 8-5-1, the Eagles could very well make the playoffs. It's one game at a time...as they prepare to battle against the Redskins next week at FedEX Field. I don't make predictions, I just cover the games. The only thing I can say, is that it's going to be another classic NFC East fight to the finish, and the winner has an opportunity for the post season and the loser can start preparing for next season.