The great thing about being a Philly sports fan is that everyone here has an opinion. Whether it’s the Carson Wentz vs. Nick Foles debate, or if the Sixers should trade Ben Simmons or Joel Embiid, you’ll never find a die hard Philly guy who isn’t willing to take a stance on a hot take. But I gotta say, the whole “we hate Andy Reid because he never won us a Super Bowl” crowd seems like a bunch of sore losers and I really have no desire to engage in a sports debate with them on this. But I’m a Philly sports blogger and can’t help myself, so here we are!
Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat, Andy Reid did not cost the Eagles the Super Bowl back in 2005. The blame should fall squarely on Donovan McNabb’s shoulders. Even the mismanagement of the clock in the fourth quarter is McNabb’s fault. I mean, the dude was so drained at that point and was throwing up in the huddle all night. Do you really think having him run a two-minute drill with the Super Bowl on the line would’ve panned out? Probably not.
Then you have the Reid haters who claim he’s a bad person because he allows some questionable characters to play for him. For those of you who think this way, let me ask you this: would you rather have a coach like Andy who gives his players some benefit of the doubt, or a coach like Chip Kelly who manifests rumors about gang ties for players he doesn’t like and trades said players at the drop of a hat? Of course you’re going to go with Reid.
For the life of me, I just don’t understand why Philly fans are still so divided on this guy. He is, without a doubt, the best head coach in terms of long-term success the Eagles have ever had.
Obviously he wasn’t perfect and he certainly had his fair share of drama during his time on the Eagles sideline, but isn’t that the story with any head coach that’s been with his team for over a decade? Even the great Bill Belichick isn’t immune to disappointment and allowing questionable characters to play for him. But I guess when Belichick does it it’s the “Patriot Way,” right?
It’s about time we stop letting our Philly pride get in the way and just give Big Red the respect he deserves. No, he didn’t bring the Eagles their first championship, but he gave us some unbelievable memories during his tenure and gave Philly the coach who would eventually bring home the Lombardi for us in Doug Pederson.
Congratulations on finally becoming a champion, Andy. Next stop: the fast food buffet at the White House. Eat up, champ.