The Eagles took care of business this week, soundly defeating a less than impressive Tampa Bay squad 33-14. There were plenty of things to be proud of, but there are also some issues that need to be adressed before the Birds hit a tough, 3-game NFC East stretch. Let's begin.
THE GOOD
Donovan McNabb: In his first game back from the rib injury, Super Five looked...super. He went 16 for 21, throwing for 246 yards and 3 TDs, with a QB rating of 157.2. Many speculated that McNabb wouldn't try to scramble at all, but he still wound up leading the team in rushing yards (2 carries for 30 yards).
Jeremy Maclin: It appears as though the Bucs' plan was to double cover DeSean Jackson the whole game, and if that's the case, they were successful (Jackson had 1 catch for 1 yard). But they forgot about Maclin. Before the game, Maclin had 6 catches for 45 yards on the year. Today, he had 6 catches for 142 yards and 2 TDs.
Asante Samuel: He could very well be the best corner in the NFL. He recorded two picks on the day (including a clutch one within the final seconds of the first half), and has already matched his INT total for last season.
David Akers: He was booting it on kickoffs, made his only FG attempt (a 44-yarder), and added seven extra points, becoming the all-time franchise leader in XPs.
THE BAD
Brian Westbrook (sort of): Route 36 did have one rushing touchdown, but had only 18 yards on the ground and 17 receiving yards. This was partially because the Eagles passed on almost every play, but Westbrook needs to make more out of his carries.
The Defense (sort of): Good news is that they forced 3 turnovers and held the Bucs to just 14 points. Bad news is that they seemed to start and stop throughout the day. The Bucs had 9 third down conversions against the Eagles D, which was #1 on thrid down prior to the game.
THE STUPID
Penalties: Simply put, 10 penalties is unacceptable.
Get the latest Philadelphia Eagles news with Bleeding Green Nation