The Eagles defense has been ripped all season by fans in this city, and at times rightlfully so. But to New England Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady, Juan Castillo's unit is nothing to laugh about.
"They really have threats everywhere," said Brady. "They rush as good as anybody that we face. They have two of the best corners in the league that intercept passes. They force you to throw it quick and then they're on you quick."
Brady has never been an especially mobile quarterback, which should excite Eagles defensive end's Trent Cole and Jason Babin. The two have combined for 15 sacks, and if you throw Cullen Jenkins into that mix, the Eagles can rush three players who know how to bring down the quarterback.
"They are a very athletic and fast group," said Brady on the Eagles defense. "They're a really dangerous group and we have to go out and execute really well."
The Patriots offense is a dangerous group themselves, but they are also very one dimensional. With Ben Jarvis-Green Ellis as their lead running back, the Patriots have not been able to establish a running game all season. That means it will be up to Brady, Wes Welker and Rob Gronkowski to carry this team to a win- a task that Brady said will not be easy.
"They can play with anybody," said Brady. "They're as good as any team in this league. They're a tough team in all phases."
Eagles Notes: For the 2nd week in a row, Michael Vick did not practice because of his broken ribs. Andy Reid said that Vick is getting better, and the fact that he could throw for a little bit yesterday is a step in the right direction.....Desean Jackson also did not practice due to swelling in his foot. Jackson injured the foot in the Eagles win over the New York Giants. His status for Sunday is not known, but it looks like he should be able to go once the swelling does down......Jeremy Maclin did return to practice, and it looks like he should be a go on Sunday.
Follow Buzz on Broad Eagles Beat Writer Eliot Shorr-Parks on Twitter at @EliotShorrParks
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