In a game that at times displayed the Eagles knack for self inflicted injury, Donovan McNabb peeled off another layer of comeback rust, and led the Eagles to their third win of the season, 23-16 over a struggling Vikings squad. Against a run tough Minnesota D, he passed for 333 and a score from inside the red zone. The TD pass was not a drop back laser, but instead came on a designed shovel pass to Brian Westbrook. Regardless of the method, it was a cheery moment when it happened. That play had been a staple of the Eagles red zone offense and has been inexplicably unused this season.

McNabb was the primer for the offense, displaying his returning gift for stretching a play. He had several nifty evasions and runs, including a quarterback draw.

“I definitely feel like the burst is coming back,” said McNabb. “That gives me the opportunity to do a lot of different things that I’m used to.”

While number 5 has been working all season to regain his Pro Bowl form, the missing parts of his game have been apparent. Games have been lost as McNabb missed opportunities built mostly on Brian Westbrook’s efforts. Not so in the Metrodome. Westbrook only gained 46 yards on 21 attempts today. He added another 46 on 4 catches. His day also included 2 TDs from inside the 20.

The Birds did not overwhelm, at times committed boneheaded penalties (especially in the first quarter),  but did show grit.  Brad Childress pulled another trick out of Andy Reid’s seldom used bag when he on-sides kicked after the Vikings took a 7-0 lead.  The Eagles never saw it coming and Minnesota had the ball back inside the 50, with momentum.  On the first play from scrimmage from the 48, Trent Cole burst past the Viking’s tackle and sacked Kelly Holcolm for a 9 yard loss.  That took the wind out of the sails of the Vikings crowd, and the Eagles D held.  Cole had a great game, collecting 2 sacks and 8 tackles.

McNabb was assisted mightily by his receivers. Reggie Brown continued his resurgent play with 8 catches for 105 yards including a terrific toe tapping sideline snare in the first quarter. Kevin Curtis had 3 grabs for 76.  His highlight was a sensational steal of a ball, over-top of a Viking D back.  He snatched the ball out of the defenders hands with just his right  hand as he tumbled over him to the turf.