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by Digger

Here we go again. Philadelphia Eagles mid-season struggles have become the norm in recent years. So has bandwagon loads of finger-pointers directed at QB Donovan McNabb... again.

McNabb's entire career has been surrounded by controversy. All sorts of questions and insults have been hurled his way. To his credit, he's weathered the storm...

Ironic how things work sometimes. McNabb became Philadelphia's starting QB back in 1999. This franchise never had such a string of success before his arrival. Yet, he's probably been singled out more than any other player in Eagles history.

Considering the lack of a coherent supporting cast... McNabb enjoyed a great career right up until running out of steam with 3:00 minutes to go in Super Bowl XXXIX (lost, 24-21). Only once did Philadelphia go out and sign a stud wide receiver (Terrell Owens). They made it to the big dance but imploded when Owens/McNabb fued went public. Owens was soon shipped out of town without finding any replacements.

Philly's offensive line has become so thin they're rarely successful on 3rd and short runs. Pass protection for McNabb has rarely been above average. Eagles Offensive Coordinators rarely open up defenses by calling deep passes. And far too many critical dropped passes during DM's entire tenure.

Speaking of passes... free ones have been giving to the coaches again this season. It was Andy Reid's play calling at the end of three contests which cost this squad 3 potential wins (vs Chicago, Washington, Giants). Philly's running game has been pretty bad all year yet Reid went for 3rd/4th and short runs each time the game was on the line and guessed wrong. Each time the Eagles were stopped in late game changing situations. McNabb had unspectacular yet solid games in those contests but wasn't trusted to get the mission done.

Much of McNabb's recent heat began in an overtime tie in Cincinnati when he famously stated he didn't know OT's could end in tie's. Follow that up with Reid benching him this past weekend only trailing by 3... it's evident there's a rift. McNabb has had critical moments of mental lapses. It appears his not spotting open receivers has coaches and teammates second guessing. Fans now too since this is starting to become a media circus.

All eyes will be on Philadelphia, Reid & McNabb on Thanksgiving day. It'll be a battle of the birds between Philadelphia vs Arizona. Cardinals QB Kurt Warner is challenging Dan Marino's single season passing mark of 5,084 yards. Arizona plays inspired football... Eagles do not.

When Philly loses... they'll be too far behind in the playoff race to contend. McNabb will face a full frontal attack for his remaining days as an Eagle. Philly front office would be wise to dump Reid too.