Defensive issues will thwart Eagles

Despite their solid start, Merril Hoge still doesn't believe the Eagles will make the playoffs.

Originally Published: September 24, 2004
By Merril Hoge | ESPN Insider
Before the season began, ESPN.com's NFL editors asked me if the Philadelphia Eagles would win the Super Bowl. My response was a resounding no, and I went so far as to say I didn't feel the Eagles would even make the playoffs. Some people regarded me as a goofball who'd taken too many hits, or they simply thought I was joking. Neither is true … except maybe the part about taking too many hits.

Well, we're two weeks into the season, and I still feel the Eagles aren't good enough to make the playoffs!

People are probably snickering at my pick because the Eagles are 2-0 and coming off a Monday Night football win over the Minnesota Vikings. QB Donovan McNabb and WR Terrell Owens are clicking as they've combined for four touchdowns already, and the running game is getting by with Brian Westbrook carrying the load. I'm sure there are tons of guffaws and boos awaiting me in Philly.


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Merril Hoge

NFL
Former NFL fullback Merril Hoge is an analyst for a wide variety of NFL programs on television and ESPN Radio. An eight-year NFL veteran, Hoge spent 1987-93 with the Pittsburgh Steelers and joined ESPN in 1996.

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