Donovan McNabb has to play great today for the Birds to get the W.
I feel confident that Brian Westbrook will play today but I don't think we're going to see the Brian Westbrook we are used to seeing. I would estimate that Westbrook will be operating at 70 to 75%. He'll be able to play but he won't be able to take over the game like he's done in the past.
The Skins will have to account for him and that will in all likelihood but his main contribution to the offense.
This one is on McNabb. He's got to make things happen for the Birds today. The Skins love to play man to man but their top cornerback, Shawn Springs will miss this game because of injury.
In the past, the Eagles have isolated cornerback Carlos Rogers and grilled him like some at steak on the barbecue pit.
One of the other corners back there is Fred Smoot who used to be an outstanding cover guy. He's not that any more.
The receivers must step up, catch the football and make something happen with it when they get their hands on it.
How many times have I said that they need L.J. Smith to show up big? Probably too many times, but I must say again today that they need production for Smith. Skins linebacker Marcus Washington will be matche one on one with him and Washington couldn't cover the kitchen table if I handed him a tablecloth.
If Smith could have a breakout game, it will make life easier for the Birds for the rest of the season.
They'll be able to move the ball but just like last week they must get the ball into the endzone.
