The Battle for PA...

Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Miles apart, literally and figuratively. We eat Primanti's and drink Iron City. They eat Pat's cheesesteaks (with whiz) and drink Yuengling. But for all of our differences, we're really not so different. At least in some respects.

For instance, contrary to how it may seem, we're both from Pennsylvania. I mean, that's gotta count for something, right? Also, we both know what it's like to experience the futility of a Major League Baseball franchise. And then who can forget, we're both from Pennsylvania. Yeah, I got nothin'...

Our football teams, however, while similar on Defense, diverge when it comes to Offense. The Eagles run that West Coast style and our Steelers, well, we like to run the ball. Philly relies almost exclusively on Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook. Sure, it's nice when Greg Lewis, Hank Baskett, and most recently, Desean Jackson can be a major factor. But that's more the exception than the rule.

Brian Westbrook is a running back (I guess), a wide receiver, a tight end and though I've never seen it, it wouldn't surprise me if they let him throw a few rocks as well. He's currently 14th overall in rushing yards, while part of a 3-way tie for 1st in rushing TDs. And I don't have the numbers on it, but I'm willing to bet he's high up on the list for all purpose yards. Not to mention front of the line for the kiddie coaster.

Then, there's Donovan McNabb. He's primarily a pocket, high percentage passer. But a damn good one at that. Behind a line that could make even Tommy Maddox look like Joe Montana (ok, now I'm talking crazy). Through two games this season, he's 2nd in the league in passing yards, 6th in the league in QB rating (a respectable 114.1), and part of a six way tie for 2nd in the league in passing TDs.

Of course, in case you hadn't checked recently, Big Ben is #1 in QB rating, tied for 3rd in TD passes, and um, 20th in passing yards. But never mind that. Willie Parker is 3rd in the league in rushing yards, whilst also tied for 1st in rushing TDs thanks to that disgusting game he had against the Texans.

But what worries me is this - we're built to stop the run first, blitz second (hmm, maybe those are one and the same for us), and defend the pass, last. The Eagles hardly do anything you could call "running the ball," and their passing game tends to favor quick passes, which just may allow McNabb to avoid a blitz and exploit one of our bigger weaknesses.

Anyways, I think what I'm getting at is - unlike our first two, this one's going to be a real game. And none too soon if you ask me. We have played pattycake with a couple of 1st graders these past two weeks. Now, it's time to tango with some bigger fish. In fact, if you believe the media pundits, a Super Bowl contender. Or something like that.

So we've already talked about it a little bit in the comments this week, but what do you guys think? Formidable foe? Worthy opponent? Or just next in line to get popped in the mouth?

Oh yeah, and it sounds like Deshea's going to miss his 2nd game in a row. Bryant McFadden better wear his big boy pants again. He's on notice.