EAGLES NEWS

In his first start at QB since returning to the NFL last year, Mike Vick had a big day. He completed 21 of 34 passes for 284 yards and 2 TDs and rushed 7 times for 37 more yards. 4 of Vick's 21 completions went to Desean Jackson for 135 yards and a TD. In addition to Vick, Lesean McCoy had a huge day as well with 16 carries for 120 yards and 3 TDs. Despite all that the Birds still almost lost to the Lions as the defense collapsed late after a strong start.

Vick fired a 45 yd TD pass to Jackson to give the Birds the early 7-0 lead in the 1st quarter, but the Lions came back with 17 unanswered points behind 2 scores by Jahvid Best to take 17-7 midway through the 2nd quarter. Just when it appeared Detroit was poised to take a lead into the half, Vick led to 2 scoring late in the half with Lesean McCoy's 14 yard run and Vick's 9 yd TD putting the Birds back ahead at the half, 21-17. On the only scoring drive of the 3rd quarter McCoy plunged in from 4 yards out for a 28-17 lead. Later with about 6 minutes to play in the 4th quarter McCoy did it again, this time from 46 yards out for a 35-17.

Unfortunately, just when it seemed the Birds had it wrapped the defense broke down and the Eagle's running game consistently failed to time off the clock. Surprisingly Detroit was able to take advantage. Best's 3rd TD of the day, cut it to 35-24. Then Shaun Hill fired a 19 yd TD pass to Calvin Johnson and converting for 2 points , the lead was down to 35-32. Riley Cooper had the ensuing onsides kick in his hands but couldn't hang on and Detroit ending up recovering to give themselves one chance to win or tie. Thankfully at this point the Eagles defense finally woke up again and force a 3 and out to preserve the 35-32 Eagle victory. Since the Cowboys, Giants, and Redskins all lost today the Birds are now actually tied for 1st in the NFC East. As good as Vick was Kevin Kolb will still step back into the starter's role next week and he'll now have tremendous to deliver or end up on the bench.