The Saints and Eagles still have a lot to prove to the NFC. Both came away with wins in Week 1, with New Orleans topping Detroit and Philadelphia beating the Carolina Panthers. But both teams still have to provide some good answers for their perceived weaknesses.
The Philadelphia Eagles have to come up with a quarterback to replace Donovan McNabb. Out with a rib injury, McNabb will likely be replaced by Kevin Kolb. Michael Vick is still not avaliable so that’s out and he’s probably not ready yet even if he could play. Look for the Eagles to try and whop New Orleans with a heavy dose of Brian Westbrook and some imaginative play calling.
The New Orleans Saints seem to have no problem on offense. Drew Brees is clicking, and what’s more, they may have a ground game to go with the passing game. Mike Bell rushed for 140 yards against the Lions, and looked tough doing it. Bell is listed as the 2nd string back, so Pierre Thomas, if he’s healthy, could be in the lineup. But should Thomas falter, Bell looks readt to assume full time duties.
What the Saints need to correct against the Eagles is a shoddy performance on special teams and their secondary. Reggie Bush fumbled a punt return and was once again innefective as a runner. The Saints secondary gave up a 64-yard pass against the Lions, reminiscent of last saeson’s weakness.
This Saints vs Eagles game should be a doozy. Though it’s early in the season, neither team can afford to get too far back from the pack in it’s division. New Orleans looks to be a shade healthier and in a better position on offense. But the Saints defense vs the Eagles offense may be missing Charles Grant, Will Smith, or both. Given a lackluster pass rush even Kevin Kolb can be effective.
