The Blame Game
I was surprised to hear that people were saying that I am not taking blame for us being 3-5. I did say in my press conference earlier today (http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=14381) that "I'm definitely not the whole reason why we lost these games" and "I'm not fully [to] blame for everything that goes on around here." But I also said, "There are a lot of mistakes I've made. [Whether] it's throws I want back, [bad] decisions, whatever it may be, there are mistakes that I've made in every game- a lot of things that you're not used to doing, a lot of things that you know you can do better. Everybody makes mistakes. But, in this situation, there's no room for error, and that goes for each individual person. There's no room for error." I wish it were easy to find out what is going wrong ? then it would be easier to fix. Have I made mistakes? Yes. Do I expect more from myself? Absolutely yes. This is truly frustrating for me because I am giving all I have in practice, in film study, and in the games. I share a passion with Eagles fans to see this team win each week. It hasn't happened as often as we'd like thus far. I haven't given up on myself, our my teammates. And I certainly haven't given up on this season.




Awesome said November 08, 2007
Keep your head up.
jpc1950 replied November 10, 2007
Roger_Dorn said November 08, 2007
tonedeft said November 08, 2007
Against the Giants he left you on a limb against a constant successful blitz the whole game when everyone knows that the way to counter an effective blitz is an effective rushing attack (youse guys were averaging over 6 yds on the ground, I believe). If you are successful running, they will be wary of blitzing so much and that will open up the pass. If not, well, you're screwed. The fact that he left you to get sacked 12 times while still coming back from a serious injury was completely moronic and ignorant to you.
Against the Cowboys, he just assumed that because they let up a bit of deep plays that they would do to the same to youse even though every team knows Andy lives by the big pass. Even after seeing 6 DBs every time youse went to 3 receiver sets, he didn't make any good adjustments.
My wife is complaining that she needs to get on the computer so I can't write all that I'd like, but to be short; I think you are still coming back from an injury so people need to stop expecting you to play like your pro-bowl years right away, but also they need to realize the coaching hasn't helped you at all wither. That and there really is only two of the games you've lost that I would put you near the top of the list of players responsible for those losses.
I know you won't comment on it, but I am really curious what you would think of having Bill Parcells as the coach...
Anyways, keep your head up.
PhuckPhilly replied November 08, 2007
funkediva said November 08, 2007
bobbyriether said November 08, 2007
I just wanted to thank you for everything you've given to the city. Even though you obviously don't know me as I am just a random Eagles fan (season ticket holder though!) amongst millions, I really do admire everything about how you have handled yourself professionally and personally throghout the years. I fully believe that you are one of the top QBs in the game and though I'm guessing the knee isn't 100%, I have faith that you'll be back and better than ever very soon. I feel like so many times you've gotten a raw deal in so many situations, but you've always rose above unwarranted criticism and maintained professionalism that virtually no other person could have endured.
I must admit that I do read the news and listen to WIP and I worry that you may go elsewhere sooner rather than later. And while I know you will hold up that Super Bowl trophy one day, I just hope and pray it's not in another uniform. Please know that while it may not seem to be the case, tons of Eagles fans like me truly treasure what you've brought to this city and support you though thick and thin.
Best Regards,
Robert Riether
Bethlehem, PA
ck0712 said November 08, 2007
I just wanted to thank you for everything you've given to the city.
I know it is hard to read that you should not listen to the critics; however, if you want to move forward you have to hear and not hear. We still believe in this team and support you guys all the way. Fly Eagles Fly!
ALL EXCELLENT points!!!!!!!! and i agree 110% with the above posters!!!!!!
TeRoy3 said November 08, 2007
sorry...Bills....sorry...now Eagles...sorry charlie. The team wouldn't be 3-5 if they didn't exspect you to keep doin the impossible. Keep your head up man. If it doesn't work out I'm sure my Bears could use you
Mandan_35 said November 08, 2007
I no this year has been very fustrating for the fans but its got to be even more fustrating for you guys because of all the hard work. I just hope this losing and fustration doesnt want u to leave Philly, cuz if that day ever comes thats goin to be hard...Keep fighting and dont worry we will pull through...
Truth4sho said November 08, 2007
Holla
iggle36 said November 08, 2007
The media is just desperate for a story, so they try to make something out of nothing.
phileaglesfan said November 08, 2007
But I'll keep you in my prayers. Keep your head up! And remember you have fans that are gonna stick with you regardless what happens!
phileaglesfan said November 08, 2007
But I'll keep you in my prayers. Keep your head up! And remember you have fans that are gonna stick with you regardless what happens!
rayj0101 said November 08, 2007
brettman replied November 08, 2007
MsEaglesAllDay said November 08, 2007
DDB18940 replied November 08, 2007
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totalpackage said November 08, 2007
strongsafety29 said November 08, 2007
dont get caught up in the hype!
do what u do best,
remembr what Public Enemy said DONT BELIEVE THE HYPE
Go Eagles!!!!
zachvigg said November 08, 2007
Something that I Iearned and keep in mind everyday, is the theory that God speaks to us through coincidences. I live my life on the beleif that there are no accidents, and there are no coincidences, there is only messages in disguise sent to us by God. I won't go to much into detail, but what I will say is that there are no accidents, and it was not a coincidence that you hurt your knee two days before your birthday, and I hurt my knee two weeks later, one day before my birthday. You have inspired me so much man. Not just by your fearless efforts to recover, but in so many ways over the last almost 9 years. I've looked up to you since you came to Philly when I was 10. I've watched you grow form a young kid, to a grown man. I respect you so much Donovan. I beleive in you and Coach Reid. Whatever happens, I'm gunna stick by you, and I'll never stop beleiving. Just keep in mind, everything happens for a reason. Keep fightin, I know you will.
PhillyRapture said November 08, 2007
As far as what's wrong with the team, well, you said everyone has made mistakes. Brian Dawkins also said everyone has to do better, it is a team sport. I don't disagree but I think it is more the system than the team in the sense that it appears the system doesn't fully take advantage of its players. I believe this roster needs more of the 3 headed monster approach to shorten the games and keep the defense fresh. More runs on first downs to make defenses respect the play fake and guess more about the sets and packages even when down by a score or two. Keep running in the redzone like the Minnesota game.
I've seen flashes of things going in the right direction, but also remember that the young players on this team might need that pat on the back or acknowledgment to continue to move forward and build on the positives. Washington looked pretty beatable this past week, get a win there and all the negative talk gets put on pause. Nobody likes to loose games, and at the end of the day it is just a game so don't let all the outside pressures take you out of yours.
TacoBill said November 08, 2007
Holding the ball for 7 seconds and then taking a sack is just another way of saying its not my fault. The WR's weren't open and the O line didnt do its job...thats BS
You didnt even try.
4 things can happen on a pass play. Complete, Incomplete, Int or pass interference. 3 out of 4 don't lead to negative results. And a deep Int is equal to a punt. So just THROW THE BALL Donovan!
PhuckPhilly replied November 11, 2007
firedancer723 said November 08, 2007
I really would love to sit here and say the things the rest of these guys are saying, but I can't. I don't completely agree with them or you. But first, let me lay a few things out. 1- I am a die hard Eagles fan, born and raised in Philly, taught to always bleed green. I am disappointed in you because I know how good you could be, but I am still loyal to you, mostly because you wear the Eagles jersey. 2- I am living in San Francisco, am female, and am constantly challenged to defend my team out here as no one understands the passion of an Eagles fan, especially when it comes from an unassuming 5'3" ballet dancer. I've been trying for a while to justify your actions, but it has gotten tougher in the past few weeks.
With that being said, listen, everyone and their brother can sit here and say it's a team effort, there are more people on the team than just the quarterback, blah blah blah. But let's face it, you are the team's leader. And you have dealt with a lot of crap over the past few years, the least of which was T.O. and his drama. Dude, you are so much better than this but it is obvious on your face and through your half-assed actions on the field (i.e. throwing more than one pass to your receivers' feet!) that you have given up. Maybe you don't even realize it, but you have. I sat through that entire game on Sunday, from kickoff to the bitter end and I never saw any fire in you throughout the whole entire game. Donovan, you were playing the COWBOYS. This is a serious game for Philadelphians. You need to bring it. And maybe you did. Maybe you are right. Maybe you really were giving it your all. But as an experienced Eagles fan, I sure as hell didn't see it. You played an incredible game on a broken ankle, you are capable of so much more than this. But if that truly was your best effort, then maybe it's time for you to move on. I love ya, D, but that was really sad, and extremely tough to watch from here. So I ask of you only this: If you really do love this team like you say you do, PLEASE for the love of God, go back and do something to make this season better. Go above and beyond what you've been doing so far, and be the leader that we expect you to be. We don't need you to win a Super Bowl this year. Just show us some passion and make this a respectable season for the birds. If you really are tired and worn out from an admittedly brutal Eagles fanbase, then please do us all a favor (including yourself) and move on. We'd hate to see you go, but it would be even worse to continue this way. I agree that you may need a better offensive line, better receivers, etc. But come on, man. You used to be able to make magic happen. Do it again!
OK that's all I've got to say. If you ever really read this, I do understand if it pisses you off. But it should. Go prove me wrong and give me a reason to defend you from now on instead of agreeing with all the criticism.
Much love,
Juliette- Eagles fan
scorpiodsu replied November 09, 2007
" I agree that you may need a better offensive line, better receivers, etc. But come on, man. You used to be able to make magic happen. Do it again! " Another idiotic statement. He needs all those things but you expect him to make things happen. When he had crappy receivers like Pinkston and Fredex, the defense was very good. That isn't the case now so you can't expect him to make "magic" happen with a worst supporting cast than he had before.
You said all this stuff about McNabb without passion. Guess you didn't see the passion on the scoring drive to put the eagles ahead of the bears, but wait the DEFENSE gave up a 97 yard drive. And you want him to show more passion? Come on now. Andy kept sending out 3wrs against 6 DBS, where was the help against the Giants, did McNabb muff a punt against green bay? Yes McNabb deserves criticism but it is very STUPID to place all the blame on him when the organization has done very little to support him and the team winning. Yes Brady has never had the receivers he had now and was still great, but he also had a great defense and receivers good enough to get the job done and an offensive line that hardly lets him get touched. Where would Peyton be without Harrison, James/Addai, Wayne, Clark and that line? I bet if you asked them, winning depends more than just them.
FatMoon said November 08, 2007
swiftlyjenkins said November 08, 2007
HaloChaos said November 08, 2007
I'm not an NFL QB, so their is no way I can know or understand all of the pressures that you go throught being one.
Second.
You get alot of respect for posting after playing so bad against the Cowboys. You post here, win or lose, after a great game vs Detroit or a bad game against.. yeah teh Cowboys which we all hate. :p.
I saw your press conference and what not, and yeah you take the blame as you should. I don't know if its cause you are injured or if you are too distracted, or if their are far too many things in your head.. but you are not on your top game. Quite frankly, you're not playing like the DMAC we know and expect, who took the Eagles to 3 NFC Championships. I know that you is still in there.. but man how are we gonna get that out.
I'm gonna be honest, at this point I don't see us (I say us like I'm on the team, lol I'm such a fanboy) making the playoffs. Don't give up tho, being a player, you aren't out of it till you are mathematically out of it. Just.. alot of your throws seem to be... way.. way off. And those INTs.. ouch.
Ah well, next year.
5snumber1fan said November 08, 2007
I also took GREAT offense at the touched up photo on the back of the DAILY NEWS today. (Thurs). That was not only cruel but TOTALLY uncalled for. You can bet your --- that NO ONE ever did anything like that to any other quarterback in any league. I apologize for the stupidity it took for them to even think of printing that picture.
You go, 5. I am with you and I know I am not the only one.
Sue
sportsnorts said November 08, 2007
MindRiteSports said November 08, 2007
GETusJUST1 said November 08, 2007
tdaloisio said November 08, 2007
super5forever said November 08, 2007
i truly believe in you, and to say that you don't take responsiblity is absolutely ludicrous. you are an inspiration to many. As far as the Dallas game, i guess you didn't cover TO and left him wide open for a TD. i guess you didn't cover the RBs who gave Romo and out when he needed it. are you supposed to play both ways?. in my estimation, the D bought this one. i hope you have a thick enough skin to last in Philly and be an eagle until you retire. either way, i;ll be a fan forever. Keep you head up, be yourself and god takes care of those who deserve which is you. Stay strong.
browndiva said November 08, 2007
JimbobOdion replied November 20, 2007
JimbobOdion replied November 20, 2007
EAGLES_in_O7 said November 08, 2007
PhuckPhilly replied November 11, 2007
Big5RocksMyBox said November 08, 2007
PhillyNSocal said November 08, 2007
JimbobOdion replied November 20, 2007
big_little said November 08, 2007
browndiva said November 08, 2007
Keep your head up. I have been your fan since that dreadful draft day. You showed strength and courage then and you continue to show it now. This is Philly, they are so quick to judge instead on holding the right persons responsible. Namely, Andy Reid, Jim Johnson, & that spineless Jeff Lurie. You and my other favorite player, Brian Westbrook, have carried this team on your shoulders for years. When are they (management) going to stop being punks and spend the money necessary to get quality receivers. A QB drafted was not the answer then and its not the answer now. You will still have these same problems. You are going to be their fall guy. You see it and everyone in their RIGHT MIND see it. They haven't adjusted this team for you like they did for Garcia. With that said, I have told folks that they are setting you up to fail. But, I will pray for you for you to get the best situation out of this. If that means going to a team that will support you and give you the weapons you deserve, then so be it. Although, I want you here (Philly), I will follow you wherever you go. YOU WILL HAVE A SUPERBOWL RING!!! And sad to say, Philly will still be quoting those same words as always, "Maybe Next Year". I Love You Don, and remember, everyone in the city is not against you. I will come down there and help you fight if you need me just call. LOL!!!
JimbobOdion replied November 20, 2007
And about quality recievers? They do have quality starters as a 2 or 3 receiver, but the eagles really need a number one reciever like they had when they had TO.. Kevin nor Reggie have really filled that role and it would be ludicrous to expect that they could. Kevin Curtis is quick and has decent hands but too much of a flyweight, and gets open, but is somehow out of sync with Donovan on the route running, and Reggie just can't seem to stay in a groove for long enough to figure out where his strengths lie. They're both #2's. Neither one is good enough to draw coverage.
larrylondon said November 08, 2007
brettman said November 08, 2007
Man, the media sucks. They always make things bigger than it actually is. Just to think most of this is the Philadelphia press asking you those questions. Anyway, just don't sweat it and do what you do best, leading and winning football games. E-A-G-L-E-S, Eagles!!!
Brettman
PhuckPhilly replied November 11, 2007
livespin said November 08, 2007
GREENENVY71 said November 08, 2007
surefooted said November 08, 2007
dev_32 said November 08, 2007
flicker said November 08, 2007
I have disagreed with the media all year that the Eagles' decision to draft a second round QB got under your skin and effected you. I scoffed at that because you've always been one to let stuff like that roll off your back and then to go out, lead and produce on the field. But the way you've looked this year makes me wonder if they are right.
Where is the joy you used to have on your face when you played and led the team? Where is the swagger? You are both the leader and the lightniing rod. You'll get more credit you deserve when you win and more blame than you deserve when you lose. It has nothing to do with your color or anything else. It has do with you being the QB in a major city that is dying and begging for a champion. I don't think the Donovan of a few years ago would have come out and said "it's not all my fault". The old Donovan would have taken the team on his back and taken the heat himself and said up yours to the doubters and gone out and made things happen. What has happened to you? Get your swagger back and lead this team, they need it desperately!
I guarantee to you that the city would rally behind you. Don't quit on us! Your team needs your leadership more than ever
Ldaley06 said November 08, 2007
redsstripe said November 08, 2007
The season is half over, and you have hardly said anything about this sinking ship. BE A LEADER AND OPEN YOUR MOUTH. If you wanted different types of playcalling (for example), open your mouth and (diplomatically) ask for it. I don't have to tell you that it's your career on the line. I'm pulling for you to take charge and right this ship. You are still the QB of the team, and you're not a young rookie player anymore. You are not moving like you were in the past, not throwing like your old self either. So it's time for you to get out on the field and prove that you've still got what it takes. And I'm not saying you do or you don't have it, Mr. McNabb, but the clock is ticking and the rabble is being roused. Blame doesn't matter. Either you have the results or the reasons why not. We all want the results, and you know what you have to do.
Even though it's a little late, there are a lot of Donovan McNabb fans out there who want to see you do it.
Sharky said November 08, 2007
I'm dying this season because we're sucking, I keep waiting for you to save us, but I realize how sad it is that I have to hope on one man to do that job. I dunno, it seems that it's all on your shoulders like it's always been. I wish it were spread around more, I don't know if any man is held more responsible for their team than you are for the Eagles. As it is, however, I wouldn't choose another man to bear the Atlas-like weight.
Stay strong, I hope that you know there are more fans supporting you than those being vocal in their opposition. Kolb? Please. Not even close to being time. It's still your team to command.
--Shark
robertdejour said November 08, 2007
chainsmoke42 said November 08, 2007
coltfan said November 08, 2007
ursportspro said November 08, 2007
xsvOfWangnuts said November 08, 2007
Chris
big_little said November 08, 2007
kimberly said November 08, 2007
kim
lindros97 said November 08, 2007
Eagles_Fan_54 said November 08, 2007
joyces replied November 09, 2007
voodoochile75 said November 08, 2007
Sincerely,
voodoochile75
cocomama5 said November 08, 2007
COCO
cincyeaglefan said November 08, 2007
shaq86 said November 08, 2007
holla
shaq43
shaq86 said November 08, 2007
QueenNAsiatic said November 08, 2007
The fight is not over. The cowards never come, and the weak die along the way. You do your thing every week so while everyone is pointing fingers all you need to do is stay focused. The best you are capable of is all you can provide. Learn from the mistakes, master the tactics of preventing those mistakes, flip the negativity and channel the energy the feeds the hunger to win.
"The army that finds its ground flourishes, the army that loses its ground perishes. Here the ground means a place of strategic importance." - Chapter 4: Formation, The Art of War
I hope this message finds you in a healthy mindstate. Lets keep looking forward. See you on Sunday.
roceagles said November 08, 2007
Question for Donovan: I understand that a vocal minority of Eagles fans are reactionary morons who have run Wilt Chamberlain, Dick Allen, Charles Barkley, Allen Iverson and countless other stars out of town. I just hope that you are not the next in a long line of underappreciated Philly athletes. My question is do you think you are this generation's Mike Schmidt? His personality was never embraced by Philly fans who viewed him as aloof and lacking emotion. Your public persona leads many to believe that you are always goofing around and cracking jokes. The reason the city embraced Jeff Garcia was because he possessed the personality that you seem to lack. He was fiery leader, while you are without debate a more relaxed leader. I just hope that you are another Philly athlete who was misunderstood and not another Philly QB who lacked the intrinsic qualities to lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory. Thank you for representing the Eagles and the city of Philadelphia with class over the last 8 year and good luck with whatever your future holds. I HOPE YOUR SPIN MASTERS ALLOW YOU TO READ THIS QUESTION/COMMENT.
Rico51151 said November 08, 2007
tarity12 said November 09, 2007
PhuckPhilly replied November 11, 2007
PNelly said November 08, 2007
DrBruceBanner said November 08, 2007
Please know that there are many sentient Eagles fans out here who understand that the Carpetbagger Jeff Lurie and Haberdasher Joe Banner have opened up their smear campaign on you. Lincoln Financial Field is The House That You Built for Tweedledum and Tweedledee and this is the thanks you get? You owe them nothing.
Rest assured that you will always have respect in Philadelphia, something the Carpetbagger and the Haberdasher will never have.
joyces said November 09, 2007
squish059 said November 09, 2007
shane_d said November 09, 2007
wingedFury54 replied November 11, 2007
PhuckPhilly replied November 11, 2007
JimbobOdion replied November 20, 2007
mir1146 said November 09, 2007
bungxgba said November 09, 2007
5fanforlife said November 09, 2007
TAB1MyEagles said November 09, 2007
painpa said November 09, 2007
Beezboy said November 09, 2007
Beezboy said November 09, 2007
What kind of athlete needs people to come on here and pat him on the back and tell him "its okay, we still love you."?? A soft one. One who is not a general. I've followed your career since Mt. Carmel, I've even played basketball with you at Syracuse. You sir, are a poor leader. Your teammates even said so when you were out and Garcia was in. I don't need to site the article, because I'm sure you remember it. Congratulations, people like you because you are non-threatening and cordial, good for you. Who wants that out of the leader of a football team. I want a straight up jerk who doesn't care what anyone thinks and goes out on the field ready to destroy the other team, mentally and physically. This is not you. Wow, the REAL Eagle fans still love you, how exciting. You mean the people who put all their faith and belief in a corporation that doesn't give a damn about them? Awesome. You are a cash cow, not a winner. Its sad. You should just quit.
bigjackv said November 09, 2007
RyanB0922 said November 09, 2007
Dedicated Eagles Fan
minusthebars said November 09, 2007
Keep your head up.
TacoBill said November 10, 2007
That can not...and will not happen this year. Why (I know this is a second time for the why shiit)...because YOU grounded that energy....took it away... with your (its not all my fault) comments. Just like the way you gave away home field advantage on the first play of the game last week. Do you think Garcia would have said that???? How about Tom Brady? Palmer ? or even Vince Young.
VY has played like shiiit....but he doesnt play... pass the blame game.....because he gets it.
This season is over......and a large part because YOU couldnt take over as our leader.
jboyd23 said November 10, 2007
Anyway, I hope #5 is the Eagles starting quarterback for the next decade. He is a pro-bowler, a proffesional, and he and Westbrook will be Super Bowl Champions by the end of their careers. Please just keep your head up #5 and to all you fans - boo the playcallng, cheer the men out there trying their best to win games. Start giving our Eagles standing ovations at the beginning and end of the game win or lose.
James Boyd
ZeR0_81_goth said November 10, 2007
. I know that most philly fans are starting to turn on you but keep in mind some of us do still beleive in you. I think you need your family desperately before your confidence is completely broken. I dont wanna see the man that ive defended in countless areguments over the years go out like this. I dont blame all our woes on you and im glad you fought back. Theres 52 men on that roster not 1. Just remeber what happened to Cunningham. If your unable to scramble anymore who cares. Air it out my friend I know you can. I still beleive in you. I really hope you and your mother actually get this but i doubt you will if you do though id be honored to recieve personal emails andwhat not. Just promise me no matter what happens you wont give up. Kevin Kobb no offense to him is not the answer.. YOU ARE!!!!!!!
stillscrambln said November 10, 2007
egreen said November 10, 2007
torres4321 said November 10, 2007
vincentbovoso said November 10, 2007
Vincent Bovoso
theturses said November 10, 2007
rhinos said November 11, 2007
wingedFury54 replied November 11, 2007
IrishAL said November 11, 2007
wingedFury54 said November 11, 2007
EagleNDtown said November 11, 2007
As a true Eagles fan that lives in Dallas, last week truly hurt my heart. I have watched you week-by-week strive to get that win and it's just not happening. I know that so many are trying to kick you when you are already down, but all teams have been where you are at some point. The Eagles need you to continue your enthusiasm for the game, your focus and your leadership to get them through this. I know that Philly is pulling for you and so are the rest of your fans all over (regardless of where they live). Keep your head up and play YOUR game. You've shown us for years that you are one of the top QBs in the league. This is just a small obstacle to eventually prove all the haters that they are wrong! Do your thing, LEAD the team and know that you are supported!
grownassman said November 11, 2007
PhuckPhilly said November 11, 2007
PhuckPhilly said November 12, 2007
ck0712 said November 12, 2007
lavelle707 said November 12, 2007
Stevenm said November 12, 2007
jautopsy replied November 26, 2007
lavelle707 said November 13, 2007
redsstripe said November 13, 2007
iLL_one77 said November 13, 2007
Dawktrix20 said November 14, 2007
Keep your head up. That was a heck of a game against the skins. Let the doubters doubt, but we true fans know what you have done for this team and this organization. Just know that we are behind you 110%.
eaglesfan5 said November 20, 2007
peanutcla said November 21, 2007
Do you think that you will be playing football this weekend with your thum? As a football team if you want to anywhere close of getting into the playoffs as a team. You need to be and look bettter on the football frield. My family still watchs you on t.v. The only thing the team needs to do is play better.
Ps please write me back with your comments
Christy
jautopsy said November 26, 2007
captoncutclass said December 03, 2007
Stallworth was making plays when he was healthy...he could stretch the field with you at QB. It opened up plays for Westbrook.
But honestly Donavon if they trade you to Minnesota or Chicago or whoever it is just keep being Donavon...If they are going to make the investment of picking you up they will make the investment with weapons. I just wanted to say thanks and I am looking for you to stay an Eagle.
mustang1966 said December 23, 2007