Wednesday, December 31, 2008

A caution about those Vikings

Here’s a caveat for Eagles fans still juiced about the almost surreal turn of events that landed the Birds a spot in the NFC playoffs.

It has to do with their opponent on Sunday, the Minnesota Vikings. One of the things the Vikes do very well is stop the run. In fact, they have the No. 1 ranked defense against the run in the NFL.

This should set off alarm bells for Eagles fans. Specifically those who fear that Andy Reid is just itching to go back to his pass-happy offense at the first sign of a stumble in his run game.

The truth is the Birds likely will have to pass the ball to beat the Vikings. But they can’t abandon the run, and they certainly can’t throw on 16 straight plays, as they did in the abominable effort against the Redskins two weeks ago.

My prediction in this game will not come until it’s usual slot in this space on Saturday. In the meantime, yes, I think there is reason to be worried.

Born to run? Not this coach. And not his team. That might lead to a win against the Vikings. But it could mean disaster the following week against the Giants.

If that’s the case, Reid could find himself running for cover.

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