EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - In spite of a stellar performance by quarterback Donovan McNabb, the Philadelphia Eagles came up a little short on Sunday in a 16-3 loss at Giants Stadium. McNabb, who completed nearly half of his passes, threw for well
over 130 yards and was perfect in the interception column with zero. Responding to the absence of running back Brian Westbrook, McNabb also shored up the rushing attack with 4 rushes for 4 yards.
"I don't think I could have played any better." said McNabb after the game. "I didn't do anything on the field to be critical of - we didn't try to lose. But if I do get criticized, I think we all know the real reason why."
Looking polished and graceful during his 12 sacks, McNabb constantly lured the Giant's defense into the backfield in an effort to take the pressure off his receivers and running backs. "I had most of their defense on our side of the line." he
said. "But still, none of those guys could get open. It's frustrating."
McNabb's only touchdown pass, a 19 yard strike to Reggie Brown, was called back because McNabb allegedly crossed the line of scrimmage before the throw. "There must have been something wrong, because that blue line wasn't on the field during
that play." said McNabb. "I guess that's part of 'home field advantage' these days."
For the Giants, quarterback Eli Manning struggled mightily in the win. Completing just 14 passes, Manning also threw an interception and rushed for minus five yards. Barely able to eclipse the 130 yard mark, Manning - who is white - looked
awkward and lurchy in the pocket and was unable to escape a sack by Jevon Kearse. "I definitely didn't have the night Donovan had." said Manning. "But we'll take a win any way we can get it."
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