Why this is their biggest game of the year
Washington Redskins (7-6) at Eagles (4-10), 1 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 23, Lincoln Financial Field
If coach Andy Reid is going to be fired at the end of the season, the Eagles would love to at least end his 14-year tenure with a victory or two. And to knock off NFC East rivals Washington and the New York Giants in the process would add to the satisfaction.
Evaluating the Eagles
(Observations from the 34-13 loss to Cincinnati)
Safety Colt Anderson: Will stay a starter
Running back Bryce Brown: Hands of stone
Wide receiver Riley Cooper: Hands of glue
Defensive end Brandon Graham: Finally playing up to his potential
Wide receiver Marvin McNutt: Never block a kick by your own punter
Defensive tackle Cedric Thornton: Hands like Bryce Brown
Evaluating the defensive line
The front four is playing much better under new defensive line coach Tommy Brasher. Their six sacks against the Bengals doubled their previous best this season and they also collected two turnovers. There was constant pressure on Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton from all areas. Graham (2½ sacks) and fellow defensive ends Trent Cole (sack, fumble recovery) and Darryl Tapp (fumble recovery) spent a lot of time in Cincinnati's backfield. Defensive tackles Fletcher Cox (1½ sacks) and Cullen Jenkins (sack, forced fumble) supplied inside heat.
3-and-out with Andy Reid
Q: How did the loss of your son Garrett (to a drug overdose in training camp) affect you this season?
A: That has nothing to do with how this season has gone.
Q: What is LeSean McCoy's status?
A: I will play LeSean when he is ready to go. But he has not seen the independent neurologist yet. That will probably happen Monday or Tuesday.
Q: Will Michael Vick be activated against Washington?
A: I haven't gotten that far yet.
David Weinberg, 609-272-7186
