Philadelphia Eagles

Despite QB Donovan McNabb coming back too early from knee surgery and playing at much less than 100%, and despite the lack of offensive weapons besides RB Brian Westbrook, and even despite the various off-field distractions, the Philadelphia Eagles still almost made the playoffs last year. They went 8-8, which was only good enough to finish last in the NFC East, and lost five games by four points and less. In football betting terms, that makes these birds dogs.

Philadelphia started 1-3, and sat at 5-8 before winning their last three in a row. But for some reason the Eagles struggled mightily at home last year, going 3-5 straight up, with several tough defeats, and 2-6 vs. the NFL betting lines at Lincoln Financial Field. But they did prove to be a dangerous team to underestimate, going 5-1 ATS as underdogs.

Statistically, Philly was solid all around, ranking 6^th in total offense at over 350 YPG and 8^th in rushing at 123 YPG, 10^th in total defense at 311 YPG and 7^th vs. the run at just 96 YPG. The Eagles also ranked 10^th in average time-of-possession at +1:52 and 7^th in total yardage at +47 per game. But the defense only managed to make 11 INTs all of last season, second-fewest in the league, which led to Philadelphia ranking 25^th in turnover margin at -8.

Fortunately, those kinds of numbers tend to reverse themselves from season to season. Donovan McNabb was hobbled for much of last year, and consequently got sacked 44 times. But he still managed to compile a 19/7 TD/INT ratio, and led the team to those last three victories. And Westbrook, on 370 touches, led the league with 2,100 yards from scrimmage. But instead of adding an offensive threat this offseason, Philly went to the other side of the ball for their key free-agent additions (CB Asante Samuel, DE Chris Clemons) and two of their top three draft picks.

The Eagles have won five of the last seven Eastern Division titles, and in nine seasons under coach Andy Reid are 96-62 straight up and 90-65 vs. the spread, which ranks right near the top over that span. And Reid often seems to be doing it with mirrors, or at least with his backup quarterback and an undermanned offensive attack. And yet this team remains a threat to win its division.

An already-solid defense may be even better this year. But as usual in Philly, McNabb's health will go a long way in determining what degree of success this team will experience.