The Philadelphia Eagles return home to play the Detroit Lions after a disappointing loss to the Steelers last weekend. Tempers have been erupting all around Philadelphia after another sloppy game by Michael Vick and another game of bad playcalling offensively. A win against a struggling Lions team could go a long way. It would give the Eagles momentum going into the bye week and would keep their lead in the NFC East in tact.
Eagles Offense vs. Lions Defense
As mentioned many times before, Michael Vick was completely careless with the ball last week. Like two weeks ago, the anger from the fans has been taken out on Michael Vick. The last time that happened, Vick turned around and put up a complete game with zero turnovers against the Giants. The same can be said about Andy Reid, who has been harshly criticized for his heavy pass playcalling. Will these two change for this game? I’m thinking yes, but don’t expect that to carry over to the following game after the bye week.
The offensive line will have their hands full against the Lions front seven, which is led by the powerful Ndamukong Suh. While only recording eight tackles so far this year, Suh is still a major threat against a banged up Eagles line. Running up the middle seems to be a lost cause here. I project that the Eagles will run off tackle or stretch plays to take Suh out of the picture.
Edge: Eagles
Eagles Defense vs. Lions Offense
The x-factor is Calvin Johnson. Yes, I know that Johnson has struggled so far this season, but he is still one of the top three receivers in the league. Larry Fitzgerald struggled until the Cardinals played the Eagles, so that should be the warning for the Eagles secondary. Matthew Stafford, like the entire Lions team, has under-performed so far this season. Don’t let that fool you, though. This Lions offense is dangerous.
There hasn’t been a tailback that has separated himself so far this season for the Lions. Mike Leshoure and Kevin Smith have split playing time, and both have been underwhelming, combining for just two total touchdowns this season.
Edge: Even
Prediction:
Eagles 27 Lions 17
The Lions have struggled this season, and the Eagles are angry after losing a game they should have won at Pittsburgh. I think that Calvin Johnson will score two touchdowns for the Lions in this game, but I also think that Michael Vick will put together a complete game like he did against the Giants.