| Eagles coach Andy Reid defended quarterback Michael Vick’s play in a 17-16 win over Cleveland on Sunday. (AP Images) |
Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid acknowledged quarterback Michael Vick didn't have a great game, but he also pointed the finger at the rest of the offense. Whether he meant it or was simply protecting Vick is something only Reid knows.
Vick had one of the worst games of his 11-year career on Sunday, when he threw four interceptions in the Eagles’ 17-16 victory over Cleveland. Vick made several bad decisions and several bad passes, allowing an the inferior Cleveland Browns to remain close until the final whistle.
Even Vick acknowledged that after the game, saying “I have a responsibility to this team and that is to lead them, not to hurt them.”
But on Monday, less than 24 hours game, Reid defended Vick, putting the onus on teammates and coaches.
“This wasn’t a one-man show,’’ Reid said. “Everybody had a piece of this pie, including me and the coaches.”
Reid said Vick’s protection was inconsistent, his receivers didn’t run great routes at times and he also lamented the turnovers (five) and penalties (12 for 110 yards) that dogged his team.
But Reid also praised the Eagles’ last drive, in which Vick capped a 91-yard drive with a four-yard touchdown pass to tight end Clay Harbor for the winning score.
“It gives you an idea of what you can do on offense it you eliminate the penalties and turnovers,’’ Reid said. “This is a potent offense if we eliminate the mistakes.”
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