The playoffs are a 2nd season of sorts in the NFL, and for some Eagles players, they'll provide an opportunity for some players to put frustrating regular seasons in the rear-view mirror by stepping up. Here are a few of the players that could make us forget their lackluster seasons:
Brent Celek - After catching 76 balls for 971 yards and 8 TD's last season, expectations were high for Celek in 2010. His numbers are way off from last year, as he's only managed 42 catches for 511 yards and 4 TD's. Part of his drop in production is due to increased pass-blocking responsibility, but there's still no question he hasn't been the same player he was in '09. Celek has played well in the playoffs the past 2 years - He had 3 catches for 59 yards vs Dallas last year, and had 19 catches for 151 yards and 3 TD's in 3 games during his breakout party in the playoffs in '08.
Ernie Sims - Back in training camp, we were told that having Sims on the field was like having a "shark in the water." He has since reportedly lost some responsibility in the nickle defense to Akeem Jordan. Off the top of your head, can you think of a truly big play Sims made this year? I'll gladly settle for one in the playoffs.
Juqua Parker - Parker started off the season on fire, with 4 sacks in the first 3 games... and then he went radio silent. Trent Cole is going to get a ton of attention this Sunday. The Eagles need some production from the left side of the defensive pass rush.
Winston Justice - The left side of the Eagles offensive line has been excellent this season. The right side has struggled, including Justice. He has an enormous task this Sunday, as he'll be seeing plenty of the Tasmanian Devil-esque Clay Matthews.