When the sports betting schedule makers from the NFL slotted this game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Seattle Seahawks for the first Thursday night game in December, they had to have thought that the reigning NFC East and West division champions would be fighting for another title and playoff spot. But with the Eagles and Seahawks going a combined 8-14 so far this year, all that is left to fight for in this week’s game is pride, with both teams three games back of a playoff spot with only five to play.
Philadelphia Eagles @ Seattle Seahawks
Thursday December 1, 2011 – 8:20 PM ET
CenturyLink Field, Seattle, Washington
NFL Betting Lines: Philadelphia Eagles – 2
While the Eagles allowed a 10-point lead to turn in to an 18-point loss at home to the New England Patriots last Sunday in a game that pretty well sealed their playoff fate, the Seahawks have won two of their last three to at least earn some respect. Unlike last year when Seattle would have still been in contention at 4-7, they have no chance at catching the San Francisco 49ers now and will concentrate on earning just their third home win.
Eagles Seahawks Betting Preview: Philadelphia Eagles
What was once considered a “dream team” has felt the wrath of what the pressure of expectation can bring, and it has humbled the Eagles this season. Even with a quick start against the Patriots, Philadelphia failed to parlay the momentum of a strong first quarter and New England eventually blew them away. It’s hard to point just one main area of concern for the team heading in to this week, but the loss of Michael Vick to broken ribs is a big one, and they will likely deliver a strong dose of running back LeSean McCoy on offense while looking to tighten things up front on the defensive side of the ball.
Eagles Seahawks Betting Preview: Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks play three of their final five at home where historically they have been a hard team to beat, and if Marshawn Lynch and the rushing attack can get their legs going against an opponent that has struggled to defend the run, then they will have a chance. Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson has been a bust in his first year in Seattle, and it begs the question of why the team gave up so much for backup Charlie Whitehurst if he is simply going to sit on the bench. While Seattle’s defense has been better in recent weeks, they did allow Washington Redskins’ quarterback Rex Grossman to throw for over 300 yards in a 23-17 loss last week so they have work to do.
Eagles Seahawks Betting Preview: Outlook & Pick
For as bad as the Eagles looked in the second half of their loss to the Patriots last week, they are still talented enough to bounce back if they can put together a strong effort on short rest this week. Seattle is in the midst of playing three straight online wagering contests at home, but unless they can find a way to slow down McCoy they will have a tough time keeping up.
Eagles Seahawks Betting Pick: Philadelphia Eagles