Brian Westbrook missed last week’s game against the Giants with a concussion, but the Eagles rushing attack looked as lethal as it has all year.
That was partly because Andy Reid finally committed to the run, partly because the Giants just sucked, and partly because Leonard Weaver showed he’s more than just an big blocking body in the backfield.
Leonard Weaver rushed for 75 yards last week, and will likely get more carries in coming weeks.
The fullback gained 75 yards on eight carries, including a game-changing 41-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Shady McCoy also added 81 yards on 11 carries.
Westbrook now returns, but in what role? Is he still the main back?
He may want to continue in that role, but it’s becoming more and more clear as each game goes by that he is not an every-down back at this point in his career.
Westbrook still has gas left in the tank, but he’s now more of a gas guzzler instead of a hybrid. He’s great in bursts, but not for a 500-mile trip. He needs help, and the Eagles finally have — and trust — backs to help him.
Welcome to the new three-headed attack of Westbrook, Shady McCoy and Weaver.
The situation is a lot like the one Westbrook joined early in his career. Instead of being the young buck, he is now playing the part of Duce Staley — the cagey veteran who can still pound out the yards and find the end zone. And, he’ll still be a key to the passing game.
In the long run, however, sharing carries will help his career.
McCoy will now be the young guy, and Weaver the veteran who can be called upon when needed, much like Buckhalter was for years. Seriously, C-Buck rarely got more than a handful of carries each week.
Now, opposing defenders can’t key in one one back. They’ll have to pay attention to Westbrook, Weaver and McCoy. Plus, there’s always the chance that DeSean Jackson or Jeremy Maclin get the ball in the Wildcat offense.
The Eagles already had weapons on offense. Now, they have a couple more in the backfield.
The three-headed monster is ready to roll. Dallas, you’re first on the clock.
