Here are some Eagles-Packers nuggets to get you ready for playoff football this afternoon in South Philadelphia.
The Eagles and Packers have twice met before in postseason play, both games proving to be defining moments in Eagles history. The two teams squared off in the 1960 NFL Championship from historic Franklin Field, where the Eagles won 17-13 and claimed their third title in 12 years. That afternoon also proved to be the only playoff loss in the legendary career of Packers coach Vince Lombardi.
More recently, the Eagles and Packers met in the 2003 Divisional Round at Lincoln Financial Field. That game will forever be known for "4th and 26", a Donovan McNabb to Freddie Mitchell connection in the most improbable of circumstances. The Eagles went on to win the game in overtime 20-17, clinching a spot in the team's third consecutive NFC Championship game.
The Eagles have won four of the past six meetings between the two clubs, but the Packers won the most recent, a 27-20 Week 1 game in Philadelphia. While both head coaches boast a career winning percentage above .500, Andy Reid has had considerably more experience in the postseason than Packers head coach Mike McCarthy. Reid holds a 10-8 playoff record, where as McCarthy is only 1-2.
Eagles
-- Under Reid, the Eagles have made nine playoff appearances since 1999, most in the NFC. The club is 4-1 in the wildcard round under Reid. His 10 playoff victories are the most for a head coach in team history. He has guided the Eagles to six division titles, most in NFC during that span.
-- Quarterback Michael Vick is the first player in NFL history with over 3,000 passing yards (3,018), 20 passing touchdowns (21), 500 rushing yards (676) and seven rushing TDs (9).
-- Running back LeSean McCoy led the NFC with 1,672 scrimmage yards (1,080 rush, 592 receiving). He was first among NFL running backs with 78 receptions. His 2,617 scrimmage yards are the most by an Eagle in his first two seasons.
-- Defensive end Trent Cole had a team-high 10.0 sacks and is the first Eagle with more than 10 sacks in consecutive years since William Fuller (1995-96)
Packers
-- The Packers have won 12 NFL championships, the most in NFL history. Their 25 postseason victories are tied for third most in NFL history. Their .610 postseason winning pct. (25-16) is third best in NFL annals. The Packers have advanced to postseason in 13 of past 18 seasons.
-- Quarterback Aaron Rodgers led the NFC with 101.2 quarterback rating. He is the first Packers quarterback with consecutive seasons with a quarterback rating over 100.0 (103.2 in 2009).
-- The Packers had three WRs with at least 50 catches for the first time in franchise history: Greg Jennings (76), Donald Driver (51) and James Jones (50).
-- Linebacker Clay Matthews finished second in the NFC with 13.5 sacks and is the first Packer to start his career with consecutive 10-sack seasons (10.0 in 2009)
-- Posted by Josh Goldman, 11:15 a.m., January 9
