Eagles Just Hoping For "Respectable"

Facing fourth-and-one with 1:30 left in overtime, no timeouts, and the wind in their faces, the Eagles' coaching staff decided to punt.

They did this knowing full well that after the Bengals got the ball, a completed pass -- even a sack -- would take enough time off the clock that they'd have no chance for one last attempt to win the game.

They did it because they were afraid to lose. 

They did it because they were hoping for a tie.  A tie.

They -- and by "they," let's be clear, we're really talking about the head coach -- decided it would be better to try to lock in a tie, rather than going for a win.  Even though the current playoff situation pretty much demanded they win this game.

Andy Reid has made any number of decisions over the years that people haven't liked.  I've defended the hell out of some of them.  And been just as puzzled as everyone else by others.

In every situation, I've understood both sides.  Maybe there's a percentage point or two difference in the options, but that's why he gets paid the big bucks, to think of situational modifiers we don't and act accordingly.

The decision to punt today was the first time I've ever felt that Reid made an indefensible choice. 

It was a give up move. 

It was a no guts move.

It was, quite simply, a call made by a guy who -- on this day at least -- had lost his nerve.

All week people have been asking if this team has quit on its coach.

Today, the coach quit on his team.