Foles or Fools

This is a republication of “Foles or Fools” article by John Ruffin published in 2014 to remember and celebrate Super Bowl 52 MVP Nick Foles.

Today, Philly.com reported Donovan McNabb’s critique of the Eagles quarterback Nick Foles. McNabb stated, “When he’s running the read-option, I’ve never seen a quarterback move so slow.” Although McNabb did praise Foles for being a good pocket passer, he asked, does he “give you the impression he’s a franchise quarterback?” I believe that Nick Foles is a franchise quarterback and he will be the quarterback to lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory next season. Let me explain my optimism and what makes Foles a capable NFL starting QB.

Nick Foles

Philadelphia Eagles QB
Age: 25
Born: 1/20/1989 Austin, TX
College: Arizona
Experience: 3rd season
High School: Westlake HS

Head: Foles received development from Andy Reid, a proven QB developer, and Michael Vick. Chip Kelly has put him in the right system and uses his strengths.

Eyes: Foles scans the field well and knows how to look his receivers off.

Height: Foles’ stature and height (6-6) allows him to see the field above his line.

Arm: Foles’ arm strength is more than enough to do the job. I’ve seen his arm strength and accuracy up close (See video).

Stats: Although it is too much to expect Foles to repeat his performance in 2013 (27 TDs, only 2 INTs, 2,891 YDs, 119.2 RTG), his calm demeanor and student approach to the game will allow him to get through tough times.

Feet: Yes, McNabb is right that Foles runs like a turtle. But he knows when to roll’em, fold’em, throw’em, and to run away. He fits Chip’s system and runs it well.

Foles’ feet may be a big advantage because they provide him a flat firm based from which to launch his passes. The balance and stability that flat wide feet provide should not be underestimated. They are just as important as big hand size for throwing a football. His tall frame is supported well by his “turtle” feet. Observe his drop back and deep throw that I recorded last year while on the sideline of the Detroit-Eagles matchup.

What I’ve observed about Foles is that he knows what’s happening on the field. Ever since the Dallas game early in the 2013 season when he exited with a concussion, Foles has been sharp. The Oakland game could be chalked up and thrown out as an aberration given it was against the lowly Raiders. However, his consistent play, his ability to adjust, and most importantly those around him have made him a legitimate starting NFL quarterback. Here are highlights of his season success.

During the offseason Foles said he would take more chances. That says something about his confidence and how comfortable he is in Chip’s offense. Despite the departure of DeSean Jackson to the division rival Washington football team, Foles is surround by a plethora of talent and options. The acquisition of the New Orleans Saints RB, Darren Sproles, will make up a significant portion of the offense lose by Jackson’s departure. The return of Maclin paired with Cooper along with the development of Ertz provide Foles with plenty of optioins. Foles reads defenses well and makes quick decisions.

The league will adjust to Foles now that 31 teams have film on him. But his talent will make them play honest. The double treat out of the backfield will be a lethal one-two punch. The LBs will have their hands full and even more confused when a double TE set is deployed. No doubt teams will blitz early and often to rattle Foles. He must get the ball to these playmakers. Putting the ball into their hands will take the pressure off of his shoulders.

Here are a few examples of Foles distributing the ball underneath and down field.

Foles patience as he waits his TE to cross and peal of coverage.

Foles delivers an accurate deep ball.

Foles rolls and finds Cooper crossing in the back of the end zone for a TD.

Nick Foles will be the franchise quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles. He is no Bobby Hoying. McNabb is right to tell folk to see what happens this year. I think Foles will struggle early over the first eight games of the 2014 season as the defenses adjust, Chip Kelly will protect and continue to groom his rising QB. Don’t forget that Foles exited the playoff game against the Saints after taking the lead with an impressive scoring driver. Hold your criticism because you might turn out to be a fool to doubt Foles.