Eagles Relaxed Heading Into Showdown With Saints
By Ed Benkin
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The NFL playoffs is a win or go home situation. For the Eagles, it's just another day at the office.
Despite the pressure of a playoff game on the horizon, the Eagles appear relaxed and confident heading into Saturday's first round matchup with the Saints. The team has taken a one game at a time approach all season and players such as Jason Kelce don't feel any differently even though there is usually more pressure in the post-season.
"I really don't feel any added pressure for the game," said Kelce. "I just feel like we're going out there playing another game. I think that's part of the way we've been throughout the season. You don't approach this game any differently than you do the other ones."
Tight End Brent Celek also believes the team's ability to not look ahead has served them well throughout the year, and knows they need to take the same approach against the Saints.
"I think that's the way we've been going all year," Celek said. "I think that's the way we need to continue to go. It's important to just focus on that week and what you're doing, and not go ahead, especially in the playoffs."
The younger Eagles have learned from the veterans about the importance of keeping focused. Second year Cornerback Brandon Boykin says there is no reason to act any differently this week now that the playoffs are getting underway.
"We're not changing anything," said Boykin. "The mentality of everybody here hasn't changed. It's not like because the playoffs are here now that we have to do something different. It's just the next week."
While the younger players are following the advice of the veterans, Guard Evan Mathis is hoping they won't take a playoff appearance for granted so early in their careers.
"It's just important for them to know that you can't take opportunities like this for granted," Mathis said. "It's not often that teams are in the playoffs every single year. When you do get in, you need to make the most of your opportunity."
The Eagles went through a walk-through on Thursday. Safety Earl Wolff participated, but he is still questionable for Saturday's game with a knee injury.
