The Eagles scored 21 fourth quarter points as they routed the Redskins 34-10 in the finale of a disappointing 2011 campaign. The Eagles will now go home having won four straight to end the season. They averaged over 31 points in those four games and the defense did not allow the opposition over 20 points. Michael Vick ends his year with three straight games over a 100 QB rating for the first time in his career.
But as we've heard for the past week and will continue to hear, it was all too little too late. When you look at the final numbers, it's very tough to figure out how the Eagles managed just 8 wins. They went 5-1 against the NFC East, set single season franchise records in yards gained and first downs, led the league in sacks, had the NFC's leading rusher, a point differential of +68...
But of course, they also led the league in turnovers. There's your reason.
Michael Vick 24-39 for 335 yards, 3 TDs and a pick. Jeremy Maclin had 8 catches for 105 yards, Brent Celek grabbed 6 passes for 86 yards and a TD and finally DeSean Jackson caught 4 passes for 86 yards including a 62 yard TD (video here). He is now one of just 5 players in NFL history to have at least 900 yards receiving in each of his first four seasons.
On defense, they surprisingly struggled against the run despite being rather good in that department for most of the second half of the year. I thought Nate Allen had a solid showing today and got a pick thanks to a deflection from Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, who had a great afternoon before getting hurt. Keenan Clayton led the team in tackles today, including at least two real de-cleaters. Derek Landri played a fine game and got himself a FG block.
Also of note, Alex Henery was 2-2 today which means that he has broken David Akers single season franchise record for accuracy. If Cowboys K Dan Bailey happens to miss a FG tonight, Henery will also break the single season rookie accuracy record.
The Eagles finish 8-8 on the season. 5-1 against the NFC East, 3-7 against everyone else.