National Football League

On Further Review: Without the ball, Maclin still contributes

Published Oct. 18, 2010 10:12 a.m. ET

foxsports

Here are some observations and ruminations about the Eagles-Falcons game:

Everybody's in the act

The Eagles worked hard early to get the ball to wide receiver DeSean Jackson, but fellow wideout Jeremy Maclin still was involved.

On a third-and-2 end around for Jackson, Maclin sustained a long downfield block on cornerback Dunta Robinson, helping pave the way for a 13-yard gain.

Jackson appreciated it. After he was tackled, he pumped a fist toward Maclin, who tapped it in acknowledgment.

That's teamwork.

Solid defense

For the second straight week, the Eagles slowed down one of the better ground games in the NFL in the first half.

This week, the defense held Atlanta to just 35 yards on 12 carries. Last week, it kept the 49ers to 31 yards on 15 totes.

Overall, the Eagles limited the Falcons to 65 net rushing yards on 19 carries.

Even though the Falcons often packed their offense in and tried to outmuscle the smaller Eagles, the run defense was able to get a push and stop the running-back tandem of Michael Turner and Jason Snelling.

Samuel is back

Want to find a reason for the trouble the Eagles' secondary had last week in San Francisco, especially in the second half? Look no further than No. 22.

Asante Samuel was out with a concussion, and his absence was felt. Knock the cornerback for his flimsy tackling and cocksure attitude, but the guy can cover and make plays.

He got his second interception of the season, and could have had another if not for what appeared to be offensive pass interference by receiver Michael Jenkins in the second half.

Samuel finished with three tackles and three passes defended to go with his pick.

Reid gets animated

Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham survived a horrific-looking cut block by a Falcon.

The rookie collapsed to the turf. While trainers were treating Graham, Eagles coach Andy Reid berated the officials for missing the call. Reid cupped his play chart around his mouth but still could be seen yelling.

Don't worry, be happy

Reid was positively giddy when he talked about his quarterbacks, Kevin Kolb and Michael Vick, after the game.

"When you're sitting here as a chubby head coach in the National Football League and you have two good quarterbacks, you're a happy guy," Reid said.

"You take Michael Kolb, and we go play, baby," Reid said.

"It's a crazy thing, isn't it? I might have all kinds of surprises. That's what's so great about it. Enjoy it," Reid said.

"I will promise you that we'll have one of them out there," Reid said.

There is something unsettling about Reid's being so playful. It's not natural.