Missanelli: It’s All About Michael Vick

PHILADELPHIA - Fox 29 contributor Mike Missanelli says the Philadelphia Eagles will have a tough time with Green Bay and Vegas isn’t a big believer in the Eagles.

Philadelphia opened as a 2 ½ point favorite in Sunday’s game at the Linc, which you can see on Fox 29 at 4:30 p.m.

Since oddsmakers give the home team three points, Missanelli says there isn’t that much support for the Eagles, aside from their loyal fans.

He says Andy Reid’s decision to rest almost all of his starters will help the Eagles a lot.

“He did the right thing,” Missanelli said. “Keep everybody healthy.”

And what about Michael Vick?

“Teams are starting to get the feel about how to defend Vick, and the last couple of games, he has not been sharp,” he said.

Missanelli says for the Eagles to have a chances, the coaches, offensive line and Vick must deal with the Packers’ pass rush – and their blitzes.

“He went back to the old Michael Vick – survival mode,” he said.

And what about the rumor started by Missanelli’s fellow broadcaster at ESPN 950, Sal Paolantonio, that Andy Reid would bench Vick in the Green Bay game.

“If that is the case, they are out of their minds,” Missanelli said.

“At the very least, Michael Vick can make a play anytime he touches the ball.”

Kevin Kolb didn’t impress anyone on Sunday, and Missanelli says the Eagles will have to outscore the Packers since Philadelphia doesn’t have a strong defense.

The key to an Eagles’ win, Missanelli says, is that Vick has to handle the blitz and make big plays.

But he won’t make a prediction until later this week.