Still, in the conservative philosophy embraced by many who coach football, Andy Reid's decision to kick a third-quarter field goal after three failed cracks at the end zone in the 29-16 loss to the Giants seemed strategically correct. The Eagles were at home. After surrendering two ugly big plays for touchdowns in the first quarter, they had bottled up New York's injury-depleted offense, had the kind of lopsided advantage in ball possession that suggests a lead 10 times as great as the one they had.
Giants defensive end Justin Tuck's cranky neck had forced him out of the game. The Giants appeared on the brink of break. Later it was learned that Michael Vick's right (non-throwing) hand was broken after completing a pass on that drive, but given that he ran twice into the gut of the Giants' defense, it's hard to believe that was factored in much.
A kickoff followed. Another three-and-out by New York, followed by another promising Eagles drive into New York territory with Vick at the helm. And then one of those little things that often get in the way of Andy Reid's big schemes. On third-and-9 from his own 49, wideout Steve Smith, one of the smartest players on the field, ran his route 1 yard short.
"I thought I knew where I was," he said. "I should have gotten the first down."
Another fourth-and-1, this time on the Giants' 43. Leading 16-14 with an injured quarterback, another head coach might have swallowed his disappointment, chalked it up to the game's human element, and punted the ball. Maybe he pins the Giants deep. Maybe he gives his revived defense and its rookie coordinator a chance for total redemption.
