Michael Vick Is Eagles' Football Future: Jeff Garcia To Help the Present
Kevin Kolb
After reading Ashley Fox's story, "Eagles' Garcia to Kolb: Only one chance at first start" that appeared in Thursday's Philadelphia Inquirer, something became crystal clear to me.
Veteran Jeff Garcia was brought in for one reason, primarily: To help Kevin Kolb in his first start at the Philadelphia Eagles' home opener on Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.
Is Kolb a Joe Montana or even Steve Young in wraps, or more like Bobby Hoying or Mike McMahon? Probably somewhere in between. But with Garcia's guidance, he might be just good enough to beat the Saints.
Listen to Kolb's words in Fox's story:
"You have to do your best not to think about the what-ifs or the difference scenarios," Garcia said, "but just take advantage of the opportunity, whether it's one start or two starts. Take it one day at a time and make the most of the opportunity, because you never know what's going to be in front of you. If this is his opportunity to present to the rest of the league what he's all about, hopefully he takes advantage of that."
The lasting impression of Kolb may have been his relief role in the backup of Donovan McNabb in last year's 36-7 loss to Baltimore. On 4th-and-goal, Kolb's pass was intercepted by Ed Reed for a 108-yard interception for a touchdown.
I was furious after that play. Not at Kolb. Not after the benching of McNabb. Nope. I was furious at Marty Mornhinweg and Andy Reid for dialing up a pass play on 4th-and-goal on the two-foot line.
What? Are you kidding me? They hung Kolb out to dry. An experienced quarterback should have called an audible at the line of scrimmage.
Kolb should not be judged on that play or preseason performances.
What I remember about the drive to get to the goal line was Kolb moving the team precision like, 10 to 20 yards at time. First down after first down.
My impression of Kolb? A good field general, very adequate, but unable to throw the deep ball.
I think the Eagles see Michael Vick as an established NFL quarterback with raw talent and needing some work to get accustomed to the West Coast offense.
Garcia? Whether or not he decides to become a quarterbacks coach after retirement, he certainly has the NFL experience and knowledge to become one.
Kolb is working with the first team and Garcia and Vick are working with the scout team in practice this week.
If the Eagles were smart, they would put headphones on Garcia or keep him close to Reid and Mornhinweg.
And the Eagles should have a longer leash on Kolb. One half is not enough to judge a quarterback.
This should be Kolb's day.
Just keep Garcia in his back pocket for one day.
