1. Guess who’s back? Shady’s back.
Andy Reid promised to use LeSean McCoy in a more limited role than normal, but that doesn’t mean he won’t be at full speed. McCoy has no plans to change his style — remember, he was the one looking for contact at the Pro Bowl last year — and that could be both dangerous (injury?) and productive as the offense tries to gel over these last two games. Either way, McCoy is here to play so might as well feed him the rock and watch him rack up big gains. “I’m a competitor, and I’m going to finish the season out,” McCoy promised. Also keep an eye on Bryce Brown. Can the rookie back actually hold onto the football?
2. Bye, bye Big Red. Will it be a fond farewell?
If this is indeed Andy Reid’s final season here as head coach — and all indications are that it is — then this game will mark his finale at the Linc. Which begs the question, how will the Eagles faithful send him off … with cheers, as the greatest coach in franchise history who guided the Birds to five NFC championship games and a Super Bowl? Or, with boos, as the bumbling mad scientist who changed his whole philosophy (roster, coaching staff, scheme) and failed to make the playoffs in the past two seasons? Either way, let the coaching search begin.
3. Can the Birds defense figure out RG3?
Robert Griffin III put on a clinic the last time these teams met, registering a perfect QB rating and throwing four TDs. (The Redskins QB is expected to start after practicing for two straight days). It will be interesting to see how the Eagles’ defense will adjust (or if they can adjust) to RG3 and the read option offense. Hopefully, they have figured out some kind of blueprint for a guy they’ll see frequently for the next decade. “I don’t feel like it’s a blueprint or non-blueprint, I think we’re prepared,” defensive coordinator Todd Bowles said Thursday.
