Denver 27
at Philadelphia 30
Review: A game between two playoff contenders that started out sloppy turned into a scoring contest that Philadelphia was fortunate enough to hold on and win. After trading turnovers in the first quarter, the Eagles went on to score on their next four straight possessions to build a double digit half-time lead. Denver responded by forcing a turnover to start the second half then dominating the third quarter on the back of their pressure defense and Kyle Orton’s short passing game to get back into the contest. Both defenses tightened up in the final quarter, forcing a combined four straight punts to start the fourth before Denver tied the game late only to watch David Akers and the Eagles win it at home in the waning seconds of the game.
What You Saw: Correll Buckhalter was clearly the more effective Denver running back, breaking off a huge 33 yard run before getting sidelined by an injury suffered on special teams. Rookie running back Knowshon Moreno flashed great potential early in the season but seems to have hit a rookie wall, averaging just two yards a carry against Philadelphia’s admittedly staunch defensive front. Also, Kyle Orton’s weak armed passing attack was on full display, as he posted a paltry 189 yards passing despite tossing the rock 41 times (and completing 27 passes). That’s an embarrassingly abysmal 4.6 yards per attempt average.
What You Missed: In his first full game action back after suffering multiple signficant concussions, Brian Westbrook was tossed immediately into the fray and fire, collecting more touches (11) and being on the field for more plays (23) than any other Philly running back. When healthy, Andy Reid and the Eagles rely on the versatile Westbrook as the focal point of their offense, and they showed great trust and faith in his health and ability by giving him so many looks straight out of the gate. His role in the offense should only increase heading into the playoffs.
News and Notes:
Brandon Jacobs left the Giants blowout loss to the Panthers with a knee injury. He had the knee scoped and is out for Week 17 so Ahmad Bradshaw will get the start.
Steve Smith broke his left radius during Carolina’s win over New York and is out for the season. His long term prospects are just fine though for you dynasty leaguers out there.
Pierre Thomas left the Saints surprising upset loss to Tampa Bay at half time with a rib injury. His X-rays came back negative but he’s unlikely to suit up for the Saints in their regular season finale now that New Orleans has clinched the number one seed in the NFC.
Julius Jones re-aggravated his rib injury and hurt his ankle during Seattle’s blowout loss to the Packers. He’s questionable for Week 17 and Justin Forsett should see some much deserved increased action.
The Drew Stanton experiment failed miserably in Detroit as the young quarterback was pulled in the fourth quarter after throwing three picks and fumbling once. Duante Culpepper will likely start the Lions final game of the season.
Ironman receiver Hines Ward aggravated his hamstring in Pittsburgh’s win over the Baltimore Ravens. He’s in danger of missing Week 17.
Ricky Williams missed most of the second half of the Dolphins loss to Houston after injuring his shoulder. The Miami focal point has practiced this week though and is likely to start against Pittsburgh.
