Eagles-Steelers: Reasons to watch

Share

Given the boredom brought about by NFL preseason, in the past we've provided pregame stories detailing reasons to watch.

However, this year was different. The off-season was erased by the lockout, so the preseason arrived with excitement. The reason to watch last weeks Eagles-Ravens game was simple: Football was back. Plus, there was the question of whether it would be any sloppier than previous preseason games.

Turns out, it wasnt.

So with that out of the way, well resumeand admit that we simply forgot to do it last weekour list. Here are five (and a bonus) reasons to watch Thursdays Eagles-Steelers game at Heinz Field:

1. DeSean JacksonNew contract or not, he should always hold out of training camp. Camp can only hurt DeSean, who in his first practice tore up the turf at Lehigh. He probably wont play much against Pittsburgh, so dont tune in late.

2. Casey Matthews It looks like Asante Samuel is here to stay, and thats a good thing. But it also looks like keeping three white-on-rice corners means the Eagles will rely on the rookie to be their starting middle linebacker. Matthews wasnt credited with a tackle against Baltimore. Lets see if he shows up on the stat sheetand if he plays more than two seriesthis time.

3. Eagles running gameYes, the first-team offenses lone series against Baltimore resulted in a touchdown. But the bulk of the drive came through the air; Brent Celeks TD catch was set up by a 42-yard reception by Riley Cooper.

The Ravens held the Eagles to 2.8 yards per rush.

While Andy Reid said the first team will play a half, dont be surprised if LeSean McCoys night ends early. In order to get a better look at his other backshe said he has a tonReid lightened Shadys workload at the end of camp.

I know what LeSean can do, Reid said.

4. Jason Kelce Could the rookie be the starting center come Week 1? The sixth-round pick out of Cincinnati is pushing veteran Jamaal Jackson.

5. Jaiquawn JarrettWe were going to put Danny Watkins here, but youre already watching the O-line with No. 4. So keep an eye on No. 26 and see if he shows signs of being as physical as the Birds need him to be.

6. Alex Henery and Chas HenryThe kicker and punter? When theyre both rookies on a team considered a Super Bowl contender, you bet.E-mail Andy Schwartz at aschwartz@comcastsportsnet.com

Contact Us