The Philadelphia Eagles will get their bye week. It’s just going to happen in Week 17.
After Joe Webb and the Vikings took down Philadelphia 24-14 on Tuesday night, the Eagles don’t have anything to play for Sunday. A game that was expected to be a laugher changed so much.
The Eagles are now stuck in the No. 3 seed in the NFC, and the Bears have clinched a first round bye. The Packers need a win against Chicago to set up an enticing Eagles-Packers first-round matchup.
This performance makes you wonder about Philly’s weaknesses and maturity. Michael Vick was hammered all night, just like he was against the Giants. He was sacked six times, had three turnovers, and the Vikings dropped three more possible picks.
The Eagles offensive line has been a disaster all year, and continues to struggle recognizing blitzes. You think Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers will have mercy? How about the Bears defensive line, who has already manhandled Philly?
This loss hardly ends the Eagles season, but it makes the road to the Super Bowl much harder. Vick will now have to survive takings hits in three straight playoff games, with two games likely on the road.
Coach Andy Reid almost has to rest Vick against the Cowboys, and we suspect other key players like DeSean Jackson could sit as well. (Vick said he hurt his quad on the first play of the game.)
They may as well have rested Tuesday night. The crowd never seemed into the game, and the odd atmosphere contributed to a sloppy performance by Philadelphia on both sides of the ball. Vikings quarterback Joe Webb (195 yards passing, 31 rushing yards and a score) outplayed Vick, all but assuring Tom Brady the MVP.
Sometimes championships aren’t won or lost in the biggest games, but in the weeks in between. The Eagles’ title hopes took a major body blow Tuesday night from an opponent no one saw coming.
UPDATE: Some highlights from the game right here.