In a must-win Week 11 NFC East matchup, the Philadelphia Eagles were able to hold off the division-leading New York Giants and their vaunted pass rush. Quarterback Vince Young stepped in for the injured Michael Vick and led the Eagles on a long fourth quarter drive that resulted in the game-winnign touchdown. For the second time in the last four weeks, this impressive performance establishes the Eagles offensive line as contenders for the third annual Madden Protectors Awards, presented by Prilosec OTC. The award honors the NFL's best offensive line and will be presented during the week of Super Bowl XLVI, which will be played on February 45, 2012 in Indianapolis. Past Madden Protectors Award recipients include the New England Patriots (2010) and New Orleans Saints (2009).
The Madden Protectors Award recognizes the fundamental role offensive linemen play in their teams' success by providing consistent and powerful protection on game day , just as Prilosec OTC can provide 24-hour heartburn protection when used as directed for 14 days. For more information on the Madden Protectors Award presented by Prilosec OTC, visit www.nfl.com/prilosecotc .
Philadelphia was able to notch their fourth win of the year, placing them two games out of first place with six weeks left in the season. The offensive line provided great protection all night for Young, allowing only one sack. In the fourth quarter, the Eagles O-Line anchored an 80-yard drive over 18 plays that lasted 8:51, converting six third downs along the way while not committing any penalties or allowing a single sack. The Eagles offensive line starts outside with tackles Jason Peters and Todd Herremans. The guards providing protection inside are Evan Mathis and first-round pick rookie Danny Watkins Calling the signals from the center position is rookie Jason KElce. Tackle Winston Justice and center Jamaal Jackson also contributed for the line. Offensive line coach Howard Mudd is in his 37th year in the NFL, and first season with the Eagles. Running back LeSean McCoy rushed for 113 yards on 23 carries while Young threw for 258 yards and two touchdowns.
"For the Eagles to win they needed to protect Vince Young, and they did a great job of that against the Giants," said Pro Football Hall of Fame Coach John Madden.
