Saying it has not been a great year for Donovan McNabb is a little like saying it hasn't been such a hot year for the economy either.

Both are in a shambles.

Still, you've got to admire the guy. McNabb met the media yesterday for the first time since being pulled at halftime of Sunday's Ravens debacle by Andy Reid.

Reid and McNabb have been inseparable for 10 years, so it was a little hard to believe Reid's explanation for why he did not bother to seek out McNabb at halftime and tell him in person of his decision that he was being benched. Instead, he dumped that little bit of unpleasantness on quarterbacks coach Pat Shurmur.

To his credit, McNabb simply soldiers on, and he clearly has not lost his sense of humor. Most of the time, I don't get McNabb's act. Maybe it's a Midwestern thing, but his smarmy, goofy smiling act doesn't play all that well here.

But McNabb got off the line of the day yesterday when asked how he found out he was named the starter for the Thanksgiving night game.

"The janitor told me," McNabb quipped.

Game, set and match. Just like that McNabb had people back in his corner again.

I'll be rooting for him. I hope he lights up the Cardinals in a national TV game. Do I think it's going to happen? No.

But how about this for a suggestion. When McNabb and the offense trot onto the field for the first time, why not stand and offer an ovation for what has been a pretty remarkable 10-year run as the Eagles quarterback.

It just might be the ultimate in joining in the spirit of the day. And we might not have too many more opportunities to deliver it.

It's been a decade. It's pretty clear the Donovan McNabb era in Philadelphia is coming to an end.

There's really only one thing left to say.

Thanks, Donovan.

Check back tomorrow for an early, special version of the "Dreaded Saturday Eagles Pick."