Donovan McNabb returns to the Eagles lineup today against Tampa Bay.
Quarterback: Edge — Eagles. Josh Johnson makes his second career start against the Eagles. The San Diego product couldn’t help his offense put up many points against the lowly Deadskins last week. Donovan McNabb makes his return after missing the last two games with a rib injury. If McNabb was playing with both hands tied behind his back, we’d still pick him over Johnson.
Running Back: Edge — Push. For the Eagles, Brian Westbrook missed the last game due to injury and it’s hard to tell how effective he’ll be right now. He did practice all week, which is a good sign. Shady McCoy is starting to show signs of being an above average NFL back, but he is still a rookie. For Tampa Bay, Derrick Ward is an underrated back, and Cadillac Williams still can ball when healthy. If these guys played in a better offense, their numbers would likely be higher, especially in Ward’s case. When he played with the Giants, Ward showed he was capable of getting the tough yards. The major difference here is that opposing defenses can key in on the Bucs running game because the passing game is so inept right now.
Wide Receivers: Edge — Eagles. After posting a nice season for once in his career, Antonio Bryant received a decent contract for Tampa. Now, he’s back to his old ways and the Bucs receiving corps is nothing special. Kevin Curtis is likely out for the Eagles due to a lingering knee injury. Jeremy Maclin will start in his place and have a chance to show why he was a first round draft pick. DeSean Jackson will get plenty of chances to make plays this week, and is emerging into a likely Pro Bowler.
Tight End: Edge — Eagles. On talent alone, we’d give the edge to the Bucs Kellen Winslow. Based upon production, the Eagles Brent Celek gets the nod. Celek is fifth among NFL tight ends in receptions, and the four guys ahead of him have all played an extra game.
Offensive Line: Edge — Eagles. Even though the team is lining up without three projected starters, the Eagles line has played well enough to give the quarterback time to throw. For Tampa, center Jeff Faine was once among the NFL’s top 10 centers. The problem is, Faine is only one guy.
Defensive Line: Edge — Eagles. Ryan Sims and Chris Hovan have the ability to be good on the inside for Tampa. They just don’t show it every week. Trent Cole is a legit pass rusher who will get to Johnson at least twice this week. Brodrick Bunkley and Mike Patterson will stop the Bucs running attack.
Linebackers: Edge — Eagles. Jeremiah Trotter will likely start today at the MIKE position. He may not be the Axeman of the past, but the drop off from Omar Gaither will be negligible. Trot will supply much needed emotion on the defensive side of the ball, allowing Chris Gocong and Akeem Jordan to pick up their games. Gaither will still play a lot and be as effective as he has been for most of the year.
Defensive Backs: Edge — Eagles. Ronde Barber and Will Allen aren’t he same players they once were. The Eagles depth at corner and safety is well documented.
Special Teams: Edge — Eagles. Two words — DeSean Jackson.
Wildcat: Edge — Eagles. With Jackson, Westbrook and Michael Vick, the Eagles will use the Wildcat effectively today. Just hope it doesn’t interfere with McNabb’s rhythm, a legit concern. Andy has a propensity to overuse gadgets.
THE PICK: Eagles 34, Tampa 13.
