The Eagles finally produced what every fan has been dying to see since last season ended: a win! And what a win it was, snatching a last second 33-32 victory from the claws of the Jaguars. Philadelphia lagged behind Jacksonville for the entire second and third quarters, and most of the fourth, causing many fans to wonder if our beloved Birds would start the preseason 0-3. Fortunately, a late rally by Kevin Kolb helped the Eagles punch back and score 13 points to edge out Jacksonville for their first preseason win. Not to be forgotten however, are the numerous stories that unfolded throughout the night as the two teams struggled against one another. Here is a brief look at who's stock is on the rise, and who's stock is falling:
Stock on the Rise:
Jason Avant- Avant once again put together a solid performance, leading the team in receiving yards with 5 catches for 92 yards, including a 28-yard bomb from McNabb that led to an Eagles field goal (the first score of the night). His routes looked flawless, and he seemed to catch everything thrown his way.
Kevin Kolb- Yes, his intentional grounding call did cost the Eagles a safety and yes, he did show questionable clock management skills by leaving David Akers a full 0:15 to kick a field goal, but most importantly, his production in the fourth quarter led the Eagles to their first preseason victory. Kolb finished the night by completing 10 of 18 passes for 102 yards with no interceptions and a 9-yard TD pass to Reggie Brown. Not bad for a guy just coming off of an MCL injury.
Michael Vick- The Eagle's new quarterback received a surprisingly warm welcome from the fans at Lincoln Financial Field, but didn't let that phase him one bit. Although he was only on the field for six plays, Vick's performance at the quarterback position reassured fans who doubted his shape after spending two years away from the game. He completed all four of his passes for 19 yards, and had a one-yard scramble off of a fake handoff.
More after the jump...
Marcus Mailei- The young fullback made a huge step forward tonight in his fight for a roster spot with a bruising 3-yard touchdown reception off of a McNabb pass. He was also the only player able to chase down Jacksonville's Gerald Alexander after McNabb threw an interception at the beginning of the 3rd quarter.
David Akers- Akers had a perfect game, getting plenty of opportunities to test his leg. Our kicker made all three extra points and connected on all four field goals, including the game-winning score late in the fourth quarter. Talk about clutch.
Moise Fokou- The 7th round pick rookie linebacker continued to impress this evening, displaying a fantastic ballhawking ability and leading the team in tackles with 5 and one assist. In addition, he also earned the right to split time with Joe Mays at the starting middle linebacker position.
Asante Samuel- Samuel finally gave fans what they were dying to see from him: an interception. Samuel picked off a David Garrard pass intended for Torry Holt and returned it five yards to halt the Jaguars' drive. Our defensive leader roamed the field, stripping balls, knocking down passes left and right and delivering punishing blows. He finished out the night by racking up three tackles and a forced fumble.
Jason Babin- The BGN fan favorite delivered once again, forcing a fumble on Jaguars' halfback Chauncy Washington which was recovered by Quintin Demps and quickly led to a LeSean McCoy touchdown. Babin also provided three tackles and one assist to cap off his impressive defensive performance.
Stock Falling:
Kyle Eckel- Getting additional playing time in place of the injured Leonard Weaver, Eckel put on a less-than-impressive performance, especially for a player fighting to keep his spot on the roster. His only action of the night came when Donovan McNabb threw a short pass his way, which the fullback promptly fumbled, allowing Jacksonville's Scott Starks to recover the ball.
Donovan McNabb- Although he did put up respectable preseason numbers, McNabb still allowed a few mistakes to creep up. His interception to Gerald Alexander and his fumble to Brian Iwuh both led to Jacksonville touchdowns and a tough night for the Eagles.
Lorenzo Booker- Booker was absolutely silent throughout the night. He acquired no stats, while his competition Eldra Buckley racked up 8 rushing yards and 17 receiving yards. Looks like Booker will have to work some magic in the final preseason game if he expects to keep his job.
Todd Herremans- Although he didn't play in tonight's contest, after the game, Andy Reid announced that the starting left guard will have to undergo surgery on a stress fracture in his foot. Herremans is expected to miss at least the opening game and probably 1-3 additional weeks as well.