Jim Turner

September 23, 2010

Contrary to what Andy Reid is saying his past indicates the decision to start Michael Vick WAS NOT his. It is far more likely that ownership made this decision and forced Andy Reid to tow the line. Andy Reid’s tenure has been a bit shaky since the Donovan McNabb issues and eventual trade. From what I’ve seen Andy Reid is extremely loyal to his Quarterbacks and he did name Kolb the starter before abruptly changing his mind.

The Eagles ownership wanted McNabb out so it does not surprise me that they are doing whatever they can to avoid a McNabb vs. Kolb week four matchup especially since they are the ones that declared McNabb done. They also allowed Reid to trade him within the division. So what happens if McNabb's Redskins go into Philly and embarrass their anointed QB with Mike Vick sitting on the bench? The Philly fans are merciless and that game could sour the fans for the rest of the year. Make no mistake the Eagles ownership is driving this train trying to save face knowing Vick is their best chance to avoid disaster and season long ridicule.

Here are some other factors to consider...

The numbers game - Kevin Kolb is signed for 2 more years and Mike Vick will be a free agent at season's end so no matter how great Vick does Philly gains nothing if he raises his value and leaves via free agency. Philly is notorious for not paying so when Vick leaves do you turn back to Kevin Kolb when you just kicked him in the teeth and blasted his confidence? All Vick is doing is taking snaps away from their long term investment.

On the field - Mike Vick played well but he entered the Packers game when the outcome was no longer in doubt. Plus the Packers did not game plan for Mike Vick. Vick racked up a lot of yards when the Packers defense was worn down and Vick was fresh off the bench.  The Detroit defense posed no real threat besides a good defensive line so Vick lit up a bad secondary. The bottom line for me is Vick has not played a good team that prepared for him yet.

While I agree that Michael Vick stands a better chance of producing with a bad Philly O-line right now he is playing himself on to another team. Once defenses start shutting Vick down (which is highly likely) then where do the Eagles turn then? Half the season is over, Vick is probably not coming back and you still have very little idea what Kolb can do. What happens if Kolb succeeds? He certainly won't forget the lack of loyalty shown him when his current deal is up. Either way you slice it this is a bad move by the Eagles ownership simply to save face.