The big play in this win was early in the fourth quarter with Philadelphia leading 24 to 10. A pass interference call in the Eagles End Zone put the ball at the one yard line. I felt certain that St. Louis would score and narrow the lead to one touchdown. After a great play holding the runner to no gain, a false start on St. Louis put the ball at the six. The Eagles responded and St. Louis would score and narrow the lead to one touchdown. After a great play holding the runner to no gain, a false start on St. Louis put the ball on the Rams 11. They gained nothing on the next two plays. They kicked a field goal but their momentum sunk after that. The St Louis defense tired late in the third quarter and the Eagles started moving the ball more consistently. Getting 100 yards rushing from both Michael Vick and Shady McCoy was a big accomplishment.
The only real offensive play drawing complaints was Vick's fumble inside the Rams' 10. This was late in the second quarter and the Eagles led 14 to 10. A score here, even if only a field goal, would have made things much easier. Philadelphia has some rough edges; but over time they should improve.
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A big point in time management follows. Depending on the situation, this axiom may not apply in the last five minutes of both the second and fourth quarter. When a team is on offense and is tied or ahead, it pays to stay in bounds after pass catching or running. There should be a rule protecting ball carriers by sliding just like there is for quarterbacks. Burn the clock when your offense is on the field.