Andy Reid Hires O-Line Coach as Defensive Coordinator...WHAT?

In a stunning move today, Philadelphia Eagles Coach Andy Reid decided to stay within the organization with his search for a defensive coordinator. Eagles fans were finally looking forward to some fresh blood to revitalize a defense that has struggled the past couple years. Instead Reid promoted longtime O-Line coach Juan Castillo to defensive coordinator.

In an obvious effort to prevent riots in Philadelphia, the Eagles PR staff has been busy collecting quotes from head coaches around the league praising the move:

"Great move by Coach Reid. Juan is a football junkie who has always studied the entire game. He’s a detailed, aggressive, and passionate football coach - all attributes vital to coaching defense. I wish him all the best.” - Rams Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo

“I’m really excited about this news and very proud of Juan being named defensive coordinator of the Eagles. First of all, Juan is one of the smartest and most dynamic coaches in the NFL. If anyone could cross over to the dark side [of defense], he’s the guy. Seriously, if anyone can do it, Juan Castillo is able to do it. I don’t know if I have seen anyone any more committed as a coach in this league than him." - Panthers Head Coach Ron Rivera

“I have a strong affinity for Juan going back to our days spent together in Philadelphia. I can remember Jim Johnson and our defensive staff putting our game plans together and we’d always get together with Juan just to make sure they were sound in terms of pressures and blitzes. Sometimes, I felt like he was on our defensive staff. And to do this day, he and I talk every week during the season to talk about other offenses in the league. That’s how much respect I have for him as a coach and how well he is able to understand the defensive schemes. I’m so excited that’s he’s going to be able to put those ideas to work for himself as the defensive coordinator in Philly. Andy Reid made a great choice.” - Vikings Head Coach Leslie Frazier

These are glowing remarks and there is no doubt that Castillo is a very smart and highly respected person in the NFL. With that said, I still cannot fathom how the Eagles decided to go in this direction. The Eagles are in "win now" mode, there's even word on the street that Andy Reid's job security may been on the line next season. They needed a big name defensive coordinator, however it looks like no one was willing to risk their job security for what might be one year to prove themselves as Eagles' defensive coordinator. What they got was a man who has never coached any defensive unit at the professional level. Castillo played linebacker in college but that is hardly enough to qualify him for the defensive coordinator position.

Andy Reid has always been someone who likes to promote from within, but this is a move that I believe will ultimately be his downfall. He is an excellent coach in the league, but Philadelphia fans want a Super Bowl, which is understandable considering how many times the Eagles have made the playoffs over the last decade. There will be no coach under more pressure to win next season than Andy Reid.

MNF: Redskins Perspective

Players to Watch

S LaRon Landry - Landry has become one of the best safeties in the NFL this year. He is a big hitter, does an excellent job at blitzing the and seems to always be around the ball. He leads the team the team in tackles and definitely brings an intimidation factor in the secondary.

WR Anthony Armstrong - The Redskins have been searching for another receiver to emerge to help take some pressure off of WR Santana Moss. Armstrong comes from a small division II school (West Texas A&M) and has been playing arena football for the past 3 years, he finally got a chance in the NFL this year and has shined starting the last four games. He is averaging 21.6 yards per catch and finally given the Redskins another receiving option.

OLB Brian Orakpo - It is a hard transition switching from being a down linesman to a linebacker, but Orakpo so far has done a great job of adjusting to his new role. Orakpo has 5 sacks in the last 4 games and they need him to have a big game tonight and get some pressure on Vick.

Key Matchup: CB DeAngelo Hall vs WR DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin- Hall has gotten back to his pro-bowl form this year leading the NFL in interceptions and passes defended to go along with 63 tackles. He has been dominate at times and has single handedly won the game against the Bears. Hall will most likely be matched up against the Eagles two young fast receivers and will have his hands full tonight. This match-up will be key to winning this game. The Redskins are 31st in pass defense so they are going to need a big game out of Hall and the rest of the secondary.

Why the Redskins Will Win- McNabb will be motivated. McNabb has taken a lot of criticism some of it has been well deserved. I think with a big contract under his belt (just signed a 5 year $78 million), he is going to come out on national TV with everyone watching and prove his critics wrong and show that he is worth the money. McNabb knows what it is like to be benched, in 2008 he was benched by Andy Reid when he was on the Eagles. The next game McNabb came out and responded by throwing for 4 touchdowns and blowing out the Cardinals. I would not be surprised to see that happen again. Another big reason is that Eagles QB Michael Vick has been flawless throwing for 7 TDs and 0 interceptions and a QB rating of 105.3. When he was at Atlanta Vick's QB rating was generally around 75 (a high of 81) so I think he is going to come back to reality sooner rather than later.

Prediction: Redskins 24 Eagles 17

MNF: Eagles Perspective

Players to Watch

QB Michael Vick- One of the most excited players in the game, he gets another chance at beating the Redskins after he left the 1^st game with a rib injury that kept him out for 3 weeks. He showed against the Colts last week that his MVP-type season through his first 4 weeks was no fluke. Perhaps most impressive about Vick’s resurrection is that he has no interceptions so far on the year, and his completion percentage is over 60%, two things that have plagued Vick previously. Vick will continue his more balanced approach to quarterbacking, and look for a big game for him through the air against the league’s 2^nd worst passing defense.

WR DeSean Jackson- The speedy receiver had one of his best games last week and will try to put together back-to-back 100 yard receiving games for the 2^nd time this year. As mentioned before, the Redskins are vulnerable to the pass, which is great news for one of the greatest young receivers in the league.

CB Asante Samuel- The consistent veteran is once again a nightmare for opposing QBs and has 5 interceptions in his last 5 games. McNabb just received a 5 year contract extension with Washington for $78 million and Samuel will make McNabb earn it tonight. Santana Moss receives a lot of targets from McNabb, so look for Samuel to try to jump some routes.

Key Matchup: LeSean McCoy vs. Albert Haynesworth- It’s easy to forget the Eagles’ young running back in an offense full of exciting players, but McCoy is crucial to Andy Reid’s style of offense. Averaging 4.7 ypc, McCoy’s success has opened up the passing game for the Eagles, and is also an excellent option on screens. Haynesworth has shown improvement every week, but if McCoy is able to pound in through on the ground against him, look for the entire Eagles offense to have a big game.

Why the Eagles Will Win- The Eagles likely would have won the first matchup if it weren’t for the injury to Vick. Philadelphia has far more talent on both sides of the ball and their playmakers are healthy. They have been playing good football as of late, while the bye will not be able to solve the problems the Redskins experienced in their loss to the Lions. McNabb was lucky to get one win against his former team, but will find that the Eagles are just too good a team to beat twice.

Prediction: Eagles 31, Redskins 17

AFC & NFC East Quarter Review

NFC East- This division is completely up for grabs.

By New Contributor Jimmy Hawley

Washington Redskins (2-2)

Washington has been greatly improved by the arrival of new coach Mike Shanahan and longtime Eagles QB Donovan McNabb. The team has to be ecstatic about their 2-0 start within the division with big wins over the Cowboys and the Eagles. While the loss to the Rams was a little baffling, the Redskins have shown a new toughness under Shanahan and even Albert Haynesworth, who has been a major distraction this season, played very well against the Eagles.

Standout Players: Donovan McNabb, Brian Orakpo, Santana Moss

New York Giants (2-2)

The Giants finally saw the resurgence of their defense in their last game against the Bears, registering an

incredible 10 sacks. The defense, which looked awful in the loss to the Colts, is starting to find its rhythm. The offense, however, is still a big problem spot, and they need improved play out of Eli Manning if they want to contend in the division.

Standout Players: Ahmad Bradshaw, Hakeem Nicks, Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, Justin Tuck

Philadelphia Eagles (2-2)

Philadelphia may have taken for granted how great it is to have a reliable QB in Donovan McNabb. The concussion to QB Kevin Kolb opened up the door for Michael Vick to showcase what could only be characterized as a MVP performance in his first three appearances, leaving Kolb, who was once thought of as the future franchise QB as merely an afterthought. Vickmania may need to cool down, however, as Vick suffered an injury to his ribs. The injury is not likely to keep Vick out of action for more than two weeks, but it is obvious the type of style Vick plays makes him more susceptible to injuries. Kevin Kolb will get the chance in the mean time to try to show why the Eagles traded away McNabb, and QB situation in Philadelphia will likely be a yearlong storyline and continue into the offseason. Despite the issues, the Eagles are right in the mix to contend for the division and have the talent to rise to the top, however that chance will suffer if Vick cannot stay healthy.

Standout Players: Michael Vick, DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy

Dallas Cowboys (1-2)

Dallas seems to have one of the most talented teams in the league every year, yet it is always a question of if that talent can translate into wins. The Cowboys are usually a team that starts out great and fades as the season progresses, but this year they have struggled right out of the gate. A mediocre offensive line has made the running game practically nonexistent. They may have righted the ship with the win against the Texans, but the team has a brutal schedule this year. The defense is solid but does not create many turnovers and if they continue to be a one dimensional team on offense, they will not be able to win the division.

Standout Players: Tony Romo, Miles Austin, DeMarcus Ware

Prediction: The Giants defense and improved play from Eli Manning earns New York the division title in what will likely be the closest divisional race in the NFC.

AFC East – One of the strongest divisions in the NFL

By Keith McGonigle

New York Jets (3-1)

After a tough season opening loss to the Ravens, everyone criticized Jets and the arrogance they displayed in Hard Knocks. Since then, however, they have looked like the super bowl contenders they talked about. Mark Sanchez has really come on, throwing 8 touchdowns 0 interceptions in the last three games. Rex Ryan’s defense has had some injuries, but they have not lost a step. With WR Santonio Holmes coming back from his suspension and CB Darrelle Revis and LB Calvin Pace both coming back from injury, it is scary to think how good the Jets could be.

Surprise players: LaDainian Tomlinson, Mark Sanchez, Dustin Keller

New England Patriots (3-1)

The Patriots first three games were a roller coaster ride, but they are coming off a huge road game against the Miami Dolphins, a team they have struggled against in the past. Bill Belichick’s teams are usually defined by veteran players and high IQ guys. This year the Patriots team is filled with a lot of young fast players that are still trying to grasp all the concepts. Six rookies have started and contributed so far this year. The offense has been very efficient; they haven’t put up great stats, but lead the NFL in points per game. The big question will be can the young defensive players mature and play like a Belichick coached team.

Surprise Players: Aaron Hernandez, Rob Gronkowski, Brandon Tate, Patrick Chung

Miami Dolphins (2-2)

Many people picked the Dolphins to win the AFC East this year so the 2-2 start is somewhat disappointing. Overall, the Dolphins have played pretty well except a few phases of the game. They just fired their special teams coach after two poor performances against the Jets and Patriots. They have also had too many turnovers and some questionable play calling. The talent is still there though; individually a lot of players have done well. They have a very tough stretch of games coming up; we will see what the Dolphins are made of in the coming weeks.

Surprise Players: Davone Bess, Cameron Wake, Jason Allen

Buffalo Bills (0-4)

There really is not a lot to say about the Buffalo Bills. They are the worst team in the NFL. You have to think that this season they are just playing for the first overall pick in next year’s draft, so they can finally get a franchise QB. The only problem is the Bills are so bad at drafting I don’t know if they will even select a QB.

Surprise Players: CJ Spiller. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Steve Johnson

Prediction: It will come down to the Patriots and Jets. The Jets are a very streaky team so I am nervous to just give them the AFC East. I think the Patriots will end up taking it and the Jets will get in with the Wild Card.

Eagles 2010 Analysis and Preview

Last Years Record 11-5

Wins: Panthers, Chiefs, Buccaneers, Redskins (2x), Giants (2x), Bears, Falcons, 49ers, Broncos

Losses: Saints, Raiders, Cowboys (2x), Chargers,

Biggest Playmaker DeSean Jackson

WR, California, Drafted #49, 3^rd year

Jackson is the definition of a playmaker. Last year he put it all together. He had 1,156 yards receiving, an outstanding 18.6 YPC and 9 TD’s. He is unbelievably quick and agile, and a home run threat every time he touches the ball.

Impact Player Brent Celek

TE, Cinncinati, Drafted #162, 4^th year

Celek quietly had a great year for the Eagles. He was 4^th, behind Antonio Gates, Dallas Clark, and Jason Witten with 971 yards for a tight end. He led the Eagles in receptions and had 8 touchdowns, yet was left off the pro-bowl roster. Look for Celek to have another stellar season and maybe get some well deserved national exposure.

Biggest Offseason Addition Ernie Sims

OLB, Florida St., Drafted #9, 5^th year

The Eagles acquired Sims, a former 9^th overall pick in the 2006 draft, for just a 5^th rounder this offseason. You would think that Sims must be a bust for the Eagles to get him at such a low value, yet he put up 100+ tackles in his first 3 years, and his production only dropped off last year because he was bothered with injuries. Sims is a guy that can make plays from sideline to sideline and he should come in and help out right away. The Eagles biggest problem last year was finding consistent starters at linebacker, so picking up Sims for only a 5^th rounder was a huge pick up.

Biggest Offseason Loss Donovan McNabb; Briann Westbrook

QB, Syracuse, Drafted #2, 12^th season; RB, Villanova, Drafted #91, 8^th season

With the loss of these two guys it seems like the Eagles are losing their whole identity. McNabb and Westbrook have been the face of the franchise for a long time now and it will be just weird to see the Eagles play against Donovan and the Redskins this year. I am sure Eagles fans are excited to see some new, younger guys, but one day they will appreciate how much McNabb and Westbrook did for their team.

Most Interesting Loss Kevin Curtis; Shawn Andrews

WR, Utah St., Drafted 74^th, 8^th year; OG, Arkansas, Drafted 16^th, 7^th year

Neither of these players have made an impact in the last two years, but both are interesting losses. Both have been plagued by injuries for the last two years, were released by the team this year, and had pro-bowl caliber ability. In his first year with the Eagles Curtis amassed 1,110 yards receiving and 77 receptions. Unfortunately he got injured the next two seasons. Having him in the slot last year would have made a pretty amazing receiving core. It is the same story for Andrews, except at one point he was considered one of the best guards in football. In the 2008 season he suffered from depression and then went on the IR for the next two years with back injuries. Both guys are great cases of ‘what if’s’ for the Eagles.

Biggest Draft Steal Ricky Sapp

DE/OLB, Clemson, Drafted #134, Rookie

Sapp was a 5-star recruit coming out of high school and had all the talent to become a great pass rushing threat. He never produced like anyone thought he would but still ended up having 17 sacks in his college career. He has so much talent that he could be a guy that puts it all together at the NFL level and could be a huge steal for the Eagles.

Biggest Draft Reach Brandon Graham

DE, Michigan, Drafted #13, Rookie

Graham was a guy I really liked, and after seeing him dominate the Senior Bowl I was convinced he should be a first rounder. Before that point he was a guy that was considered a second round pick, but then the hype started building and a snowball effect took place a little too much. Graham was worth picking up in the 20-32 range, but I think because he became a little too over hyped and the Eagles ended up trading up and drafting Graham with the 13^th pick. It was not a great value pick especially with Jason Pierre-Paul and Derrick Morgan, two better prospects still available.

Offseason Grade B

The Eagles brought in 13 new draft picks, some more guys that can rush the passer and Ernie Sims to help out at linebacker. They had a very solid offseason but did not really make any huge splashes and let their starting QB and RB go.

X-Factor Kevin Kolb

QB, Houston, Drafted #36, 4^th season

It is surprising to see that the Eagles have so much confidence in a guy that has only started 2 games in his NFL career. The whole city is putting a lot of pressure on Kolb to come in and perform better than McNabb did right away so it will be interesting to see how he handles it.

Name You Should Know Trent Cole

DE, Cincinnati, Drafted #146, 6^th season

This is a name everyone should absolutely know. He is one of the best defensive ends in the NFL and has 42 sacks in the last 4 years, yet he is never been in the conversation for best defensive ends with guys like Dwight Freeney, Julius Peppers or Jared Allen.

Rising Star LeSean McCoy

RB, Pittsburg, Drafted #53, 2^nd year

McCoy had a great rookie season averaging 4.1 YPC and racking in 40 receptions. He should be a guy that can end up replacing Brian Westbrook.

Offensive Outlook B-

The biggest question mark is how Kevin Kolb will perform in his first year as a starter. The Eagles have done a good job of surrounding him with a lot of young talent. Jermey Maclin and DeSean Jackson can only get better, the offensive line is led by one of the best left tackles in the game in Jason Peters, and don’t forget that they have Michael Vick and his ability to run the Wildcat.

Defensive Outlook B-

Defensively the Eagles look very strong on the defensive line and with Asante Samuel at cornerback. The biggest question still has to be the linebackers. Ernie Sims was a big addition but Stewart Bradley and Moise Fokou only have 21 games starting experience between them. The same can be said about their secondary, as they have some young talented guys without a lot of experience.

Special Teams Outlook A-

With Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson as possible punt and kick returners you have to be pretty happy about your chances of a good return every time. P Sav Rocca and K David Akers both have some pretty good legs.

Projected 2010 Record 8-8

From what I have seen from Kevin Kolb, he looks like a great QB. But I am not going to go ahead and equate a couple of good starts to a guy being able to put it together and have a great year. The Eagles should at least be a very fun team to watch this year.