Eagles - Jets...How I see it

Philadelphia Eagles (1-3) @ New York Jets (1-4) - Sunday @ 1 p.m.

This game is such an important game for the Eagles. A win and the remain relevant in the very mediocre NFC. A loss to a pretty bad Jets team and the Eagles turn into one big Tabloid. The Jets have never beaten the Eagles and the Eagles have never lost following a bye week under Andy Reid. Here are my keys to the game:

1. Run the ball - The Eagles still have a pretty good run blocking line, anytime they used Buckhalter vs. the Giants, they seemed to gain pretty good yardage. The key there was the Giants sent a ton of pressure from the outside, daring the Eagles to run. The Eagles simply did not run the ball enough to keep the Giants from sending outside pressure. Pound the ball vs this soft Jets defense.

2. Get McNabb some confidence - Obvioulsy, Donovan has it in him still. He just isnt as consistent. He had one of, if not his best game ever 3 weeks ago vs the Lions, so we know he has it in him. I think the big thing here is...running the football. Get the running game going, even if it means keeping the score close and then let Donovan see the field better. There is no need to let the Jets think they can send pressure all day at McNabb. If the Eagles run it effectivly for two and half quarters, it will open things up for a big second half for McNabb.

3. Make a play on D - The Eagles defense has been solid. But not spectacuar, this is the week to change that. The Jets offense is not very dynamic and can be pressured into making mistakes. They dont run the ball very well but do have some weapons on the outside with Coles and Cotchery. Take them out of the game by making the Jets turn conservative. Get pressure, make a pick, force a fumble...something, the D has been a strength, now its time to become the face of the team.

4. Health matters - Not having five starters was a huge disadvantage for the Eagles vs the Giants. Its not an excuse, its a fact. Winston Justice was horrible filling in for William Thomas. Buckhalter was OK running the ball, but he didnt help take away the outside pressure, beacuse he isnt the same threat in the open field that Westbrook is. Lito is a playmaker, and they are lacking that without him. And LJ Smith might not be a fan favorite, but he pressence in the line-up is definitly missing this season.

5. Special team need to be special - The special teams arent helping at all. The league has really has become a league were if your special teams stink you are behind the curve. Teams are drafting, signing and getting their hands on KR and PR any way they can, the Eagles are still behind the rest of the league in this area. The punting game has also been brutal, Sav Rocco impress in preseason, but the lights are on and he is forgetting his lines. He needs to make sure the field postion game is the Eagles to win.

Final Pick : Eagles 31 - Jets 20