Rodgers-Cromartie: I'm way better than that

Sometimes it doesnt matter how young or talented or athletic you are. Sometimes theres no substitute for experience.

One day Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie hopefully will look back on this game as one of those valuable learning experiences. But right now, the 25-year-old Cromartie doesnt want to look at this game at all.

Basically coming down to third down, we couldnt get them off the field, Rodgers-Cromartie said after the Eagles 30-24 loss to the Bears. They made it every time they needed a play, whether it was a run or a pass. Basically every phase of the game, we got outplayed.

The Bears converted their first four third downs and finished 7 for 14and actually 9 for 16 if you count Jason Babins dubious roughing the passer penalty in the second quarter and Nnamdi Asomughas critical pass interference in the fourth quarter.

At least two of those conversionsand another second-and-longcould have been prevented by Rodgers-Cromartie, who is still clearly learning to play the slot.

The inside slot is a new position for him, coach Andy Reid said. We had some communication things that we have to get straightened out as well.

Rodgers-Cromartie doesnt accept the learning curve excuse.

Its the eighth gameexcuses for not knowingthats not acceptable, he said. Can I play better? Yeah. Shoot, Im a way better corner than what Im playing. It just so happens its not going that way.

To wit:
First quarter, third-and-seven from the Eagles 31:

Rodgers-Cromartie was stuck to receiver Earl Bennett and appeared poised to make the pick. Yet Bennett made the catch and gained a few more yards while Rodgers-Cromartie stood there, clapping in frustration and Nate Allen and Kurt Coleman made the tackle.

I tapped the ball, Rodgers-Cromartie said. I felt the ball hit my hand, so I thought I knocked it down, but evidently I knocked it into his hands, and he continued on with the play, and I didnt realize it until he was tackled.

The drive ended with the Bears first touchdown.

Fourth quarter, second-and-12 from the Bears 47:
Rodgers-Cromartie followed Devin Hester deep down the sideline, but Hester was already covered by Asomugha. Had he stayed short, Rodgers-Cromartie would have been with Bennett, who was wide open and gained 22 yards.

A frustrated Rodgers-Cromartie then was lectured by defensive coordinator Juan Castillo.

It was a call that he made, that I should have been in position, but instead I did the wrong thing, Rodgers-Cromartie said. Just a mental lapse. You have them sometimes in the game, and for him to be upset, I totally understand that.

He was also consoled by Reid.

I got frustrated on the play that I should have known was coming, and instead I did something else, so I kind of went off, Rodgers-Cromartie said. I was mad. Its in the heat of the moment. S--- going to happen. So he was like man, just stay cool, keep your head.

The drive ended with the Bears third touchdown.
Fourth quarter, third-and-two from the Eagles 37:

Rodgers-Cromartie was a step behind Roy Williams, who made a 14-yard reception. That drive ended with Robbie Goulds 22-yard field goal.

Granted, some pressure on the QB would have helped Rodgers-Cromartie and the rest of the Eagles secondary. The Eagles not only failed to sack Cutler but also recorded nary a QB hit (well, except for Babin's penalty).

He bought a little bit of time, Rodgers-Cromartie said. You give credit to him.

And censure the Eagles, who fell flat one week after looking like world beaters.

Very frustrating man, Rodgers-Cromartie said. Monday night, in front of everybodythose are the games you want to win. Especially at home.

For the Eagles, this was a game they had to win.

E-mail Andy Schwartz at aschwartz@comcastsportsnet.com.