National Football League

Eagles have bigger problems than QB

Published Sep. 13, 2010 2:53 a.m. ET

foxsports

There will be no quarterback controversy in Philadelphia.

Despite a lackluster effort from starter Kevin Kolb, the fourth-year pro will start next week’s game at Detroit, coach Andy Reid confirmed at his press conference after Sunday’s 27-20 loss to the Green Bay Packers.

Kolb struggled, going 5-for-10 for just 24 yards, but he didn’t get much help from his teammates. His receivers appeared to have trouble getting open in the first half, so Kolb held on to the ball a little longer than usual. He was willing to stay in the pocket to throw the ball instead of running away, however.

Kolb left the game in the first half with a concussion and did not return. Veteran quarterback Michael Vick replaced him and played fairly well, completing 16 of 24 passes for 175 yards and a touchdown and rushed 11 times for 103 yards, including a 31-yard burst.

“I’m just proud of the way Michael played in the game,” Reid said in response to being asked if Vick or Kolb would start next week.

Vick clearly has all of his speed back after being out for two seasons because of his role in a dogfighting ring. His 103 yards on the ground topped all Eagles rushers.

While Vick made some errant passes, he also made some great throws on the run. One thing that Vick must do, though, is throw the ball higher and to the correct shoulder of his intended receivers. He made several low throws, but his receivers made nice adjustments.

Interestingly, the Green Bay defensive backs seemed to back off a bit, giving the Philadelphia receivers room to run their routes. The Packers clearly did not want to give up a big play.

Overall, you have to give Philadelphia credit for their effort in mounting a nice comeback that eventually fell short. Despite losing several key players from both sides of the ball, the team never gave up.

Lost during the game were key players such as Kolb, FB Leonard Weaver (knee), C Jamaal Jackson (elbow), LT Jason Peters (knee), and MLB Stewart Bradley (concussion).

Peters returned to the game. Jackson likely will be lost for the season due to a torn biceps. Weaver suffered an ACL injury. Both players will have MRI exams on Monday to determine the full extent of their injuries.