Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick has gotten a lot of attention, as his team has soared to the top of the always challenging NFC East. But Bears coach Lovie Smith said the Eagles have much more than the league's top-rated quarterback.
"Just athletic, fast guys," Smith said of receivers DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. "Both can change the game quickly. They've been a big play offense. A lot of long passes with them. So we'll have our hands full.
"It's not just Vick."
Smith then added another key player, running back LeSean McCoy, who is 15th in the NFL with 726 rushing yards. But what's impressive about him is his 5.0 yards per rush average.
"Excellent player too," Smith said of McCoy. "He's not as well known (as Brian Westbrook), but he can do all the things Westbrook did. Excellent out of the backfield, catching the ball. Can make you miss, in the open field. Most people don't realize they're third in the league in rushing and a lot of it has to do with him."
To be fair, though, that the Eagles are third in the NFL in rushing has to do with Vick's 375 rushing yards.
Here are other thoughts from Smith today:
* On the health of his team: The team is in great shape. Everyone practiced today. We realize the importance of this game. And we'll be ready to go."
* On what he's thankful for: "Oh, I'm thankful for so much. Just be here, No. 1. I have an opportunity to lead a great team like the Chicago Bears, and of course my family. What more can you ask for, if your family is healthy. Can't wait to go home and spend a little bit of time with them too. I like spending time with you, but I cant wait to get there and spend time with them."
* And on who can eat the most on his roster: "You look at the size, and that'll give you a start. I would say one of our offensive linemen, without singling out one."
the bears defense is great. urlacher is too smart to get fooled by vick and our defense is fast enough to keep up with desean and vick.
Vick and the eagles are to fast and explosive for the bears and there over rated defense this game should be over early
The Bears have a lot of weapons of their own, don't think for one minute that the eagles are confident they can beat the bears. Our defense has been very stingy and the last time I looked we have identical records.
Philly has an elite offense, we have an elite defense. I think philly is a little bit better of a team right now than we are, however our special teams and home field advantage in my opinion, give us the edge in this game. It will be a battle, and if we don't hurt ourselves with turnovers and penalty yards, we win this game. Bears 27, Eagles 20.
Da Bears got eaglets grounded, pounded, and exposed as mediocre. Never have Da Bears ever had a problem with Mr. Vick. Streak over today. Jay less picks than Mike. No DeSean or Macklin over the top and the Bears win easy... easiest game of the year so far. Certain folks like Mr. MoreIhate should be tarred and feathered and sent out of town wearing pink tutus.
Da Bears healthy and happy with hometown love. 27-13. Momentum train startin' to roll. Bears win. Losers lose.