Here's an exercise I try to remember every August: Name one thing you remember about last year's Eagles preseason games?
Give up? You're not alone.
These game don't mean a lot, even if they give the team a chance to gouge fans with regular-season practices for what amounts to little more than glorified practice scrimmages.
The Eagles starting quarterback, Sam Bradford, barely needed a shower after his cameo last night. After the Buccaneers conveniently fumbled the opening kickoff, it took the Birds and Bradford just three plays to cash it in for a go-ahead touchdown and a lead they never relinquished.
Bradford attempted one pass. That's it. Then he took a spot on the sidelines and cleared the stage for - no, not Carson Wentz. Remember, he's the No. 3 quarterback. At least he was going into last night.
Chase Daniel came in the game and got roughed up by the Bucs' defense. Daniel took a pounding, so much so that new Eagles head coach Doug Pederson surprisingly lifted him at the end of the first half and brought in the wunderkind Wentz.
The kid showed several things immediately. He has a commanding presence solely on his size. He's huge standing back there in the pocket. He's also much more mobile than Daniel, and can throw accurately while on the move. That certainly helped last night.
Maybe the biggest concern of the night was not the Wentz question, but instead questions about the guys who will be protecting him, as well as Bradford.
The offensive line did not have a great night. They struggled in protection. Of course starter Jason Peters was absent from his spot at left tackle. But Lane Johnson was in the lineup, even though he may be looking at the prospect of a 10-game suspension for a PED problem.
If the Birds lose Johnson, their chances of a successful season - as well as keeping Bradford and anyone else lining up as their QB - will be in serious danger.
Still, maybe it's best for everyone to take a deep breath. Remember, it's preseason. Everyone remembers the hype that exploded after Bradford lit up the Packers in the preseason last year.
It then took him half the regular season to look anything close to that.
One other thing that was distinctly noticeable last night: The Eagles wide receivers still can't get open.
This team looks like it is going to be dependent on a steady diet of balls thrown to the tight ends and backs.
The QB will be getting the ball out of his hands ASAP. Which, after watching last night's practice game, might not be a bad idea.
Comments