When I say everyone, I mean the ESPN know-nothings. Credit to some, they seem to know their shit and speak it freely (Michael Irving comes to mind...this coming from an Eagles fan). Salisbury, Golic, etc
Everyone was an exaggeration...but still, the fact remains, after the beatings the Vikings/Falcons gave their opposition the week before...there were some saying that they had Philly\'s number.
I just don\'t understand...Dawkins said it yesterday in his press conference and I agree. Philly just doesn\'t get the respect it deserves. Granted, after losing three straight title games, they do have something to prove...but look at their defense. They\'ve, again, been playing lights out ever since the Pittsburgh game. The offense? They\'ve had their share of iffy times...but they\'ve also shown streaks where they\'ve seemed damn near unstoppable. Special teams? From top to bottom, Philly is as solid as they come.
I just don\'t understand why an Eagles victory would be such a grand upset. Because of this "dynasty" in the making? New England is a killer ball club, no question. But dynasty? To me...you need to have consistant success. And yes, the Patriots are now playing in their second straight superbowl...third of the past four, and that\'s amazing, no question. But, let me ask you this...where were they that season in between?
How is it that New England gets blown out by the steelers...loses to the Dolphins and comes close to losing against the Cardinals (arguably two of the worst teams in the NFL)...while the Eagles again have played pretty much lights out all year (despite the debaccle in Pittsburgh...but I credit that to our then sketchy run defense, which has certainly improved dramatically).
Again, all due respect to the Patriots, they\'re a great team, they\'re favored, and rightfully so. There are no excuses in football...but injuried tend to be a hinderance. Again...I give all respect to NE and their team...I\'m amazed to see how their secondary holds together as banged up as they are. But they HAVE shown this season they DO have weaknesses on offense and defense ... so why would this be such a shock if Philly, a very talented and well coached football team, pulled out a W?