Ready to tie another one on?

I'm joking. I'm joking. I think we've all had more than our fill of ties.

Having said that, the Eagles, in no small part because of the absolute mediocrity of the NFL, are clinging to hopes of the playoffs as they travel down I-95 to play the Ravens in Baltimore.

Don't expect a lot of points from either side. The Ravenss defense is among the best in the league.

But this game will come down to the Eagles' defense against Ravens rookie QB Joe Flacco, the pride of the University of Delaware.

Jim Johnson usually is adept in putting together blitz packages that totally befuddle young quarterbacks. That will be the key on Sunday.

Don't ask me why but I see a David Akers kick bailing out the Birds in the waning minutes. Of course that could change if Brian Westbrook is not available. He's doubtful with a myriad of ills, from banged-up ribs, to a tender ankle, to swelling in his knee.

Make it Eagles 17, Ravens 16. Another reason for thanks.

And the Birds stay alive for another week. Speaking of Birds - and thanks - remember that the Eagles play a Thanksgiving night game against the Cardinals.

Having said that, here's the down side. Brian Westbrook was unable to practice all week. If he manages to suit up against the Ravens, what do you think the odds are that he'll be ready to go again in a short week against the Cardinals Thursday night?

But that's for next week. For now, the Eagles have a date with their old pal John Harbaugh, the former Reid assistant who is in his first year as the head man in Baltimore. Harbaugh has the Ravens in the playoff hunt.

He was a special teams guru here, and his old kicker, Akers, will provide a kick in the teeth on Sunday.