The main differences I see between the 2002 matchup and the 2004 matchup is that McNabb is playing at a higher level, Westbrook is better all around then Staley in 2002, and Philly's defense is similar, but I would give the edge to the 2002 squad.
As for Atl the main difference is that they are a better running team this year and they are MUCH better at stopping the run (3.9 a carry). To me this is enough for me to say this game will not be a blow out. I just don't see McNabb picking the Falcons apart. Atl should be able to pressure McNabb which could lead to major problems in the passing game. Westbrook is outstanding, but Dunn also is a big play threat. Vick is more experienced this year even though is stats are not that great. I don't think Philly dominates like in 2002. When in comes down to Sunday afternoon I feel strongly that the Eagles offense will struggle. The Falcons will not explode either, but I feel like the running game will be very effective against this Eagle's D that is very good but not sufficatiing against the run. Dunn is playing out of his mind this year and I believe it will continue, combine that with the fact that Vick is having his best rushing year and Crumpler should be able to get some catches. McNabb is not the scrambler he used to be, although he has been playing at an extremely high level, it will be interesting to see if he can pick apart the Falcon secondary, but I don't see eagles WRs having much success this week. I think Atl will be the more relaxed team in this matchup and an opening big play td could spell disaster for Philly.
As for Atl the main difference is that they are a better running team this year and they are MUCH better at stopping the run (3.9 a carry). To me this is enough for me to say this game will not be a blow out. I just don't see McNabb picking the Falcons apart. Atl should be able to pressure McNabb which could lead to major problems in the passing game. Westbrook is outstanding, but Dunn also is a big play threat. Vick is more experienced this year even though is stats are not that great. I don't think Philly dominates like in 2002. When in comes down to Sunday afternoon I feel strongly that the Eagles offense will struggle. The Falcons will not explode either, but I feel like the running game will be very effective against this Eagle's D that is very good but not sufficatiing against the run. Dunn is playing out of his mind this year and I believe it will continue, combine that with the fact that Vick is having his best rushing year and Crumpler should be able to get some catches. McNabb is not the scrambler he used to be, although he has been playing at an extremely high level, it will be interesting to see if he can pick apart the Falcon secondary, but I don't see eagles WRs having much success this week. I think Atl will be the more relaxed team in this matchup and an opening big play td could spell disaster for Philly.
