Four straight wins for the Birds, and I’ve been on board for all four of them.


They should make it five straight on Sunday against the 49ers. They caught a huge break from the NFL schedule-makers when San Fran got slotted for the Monday night game the week before catching the Birds. On a short week, they then have to fly across the country, land in a driving snowstorm, and then tangle with both the Eagles and elements at Lincoln Financial Field.


I don’t like their chances.


The name of the game for the Eagles in this game will be defense, something that was in short supply last Sunday night in that wild, prime-time shootout win over the Giants.


Several members of the Birds’ defense looked like they might have trouble tackling me. I think it’s pretty fair to say that Quentin Mikell is not going to have another week like that anytime soon.


The Eagles must find a way to neutralize Frank Gore, who ran all over the Cardinals last week for 167 yards and a TD.


On offense, the Eagles will face a 49ers defense that likely will put up more of a test than the swiss cheese-like Giants defenders.


Still, the home field tilts decidedly toward the Birds.


Make it Eagles 24, 49ers 17.

Last Week: I certainly didn’t see a blowout coming, but I did expect Michael Vick and the Eagles to get the better of the Falcons. They didn’t disappoint.

Season Record: 9-4, I continue to keep pace with the Birds. Don’t look now, but this team has a very good chance of running the table as they steam toward the postseason.