Dawkins Ready as Eagles Tackle Redskins

It was killing me to not play them the first time," said Dawkins, who missed three games because of his illness. "I was on the sidelines watching plays and I was thinking, `I could be out here making a difference.` I hope I get a chance to make some of those plays Sunday."

The 8-4 Eagles and the 7-4 Redskins play Sunday with first place in the NFC East at stake. In the first meeting, Washington beat the Eagles 17-14.

But having Dawkins back makes a big difference for the Eagles defense. The fifth-year player from Clemson played in the Pro Bowl last year and is one of the top free safeties in the league. His speed and hitting ability key a good Eagles secondary.

Without him, the Eagles gave up 141 rushing yards and 266 passing yards to Washington.

"It`s great to have Brian back," cornerback Troy Vincent said. "He makes a big difference. With him in there, you know teams aren`t going to go deep on us. He`s a play-maker on our defense."

Dawkins admitted that it took him a few weeks to shake off the aftereffects from the illness and subsequent surgery. Now, though, he says he`s back to being his Pro Bowl self. Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson agrees.

"No question about it. I thought the first couple of games he was tentative. When you come off an injury like that, and it was a serious operation he wasn`t quite sure of himself," Johnson said. "I see him being back to the old Brian right now the last couple of games. He`s making plays. He`s a play maker, so it`s going to continue all year. But I do see the difference the last two or three weeks. He`s an impact player on our defense."

Dawkins understands the challenge the Redskins bring to the table. They have a huge offensive line, a powerful running back in Stephen Davis and a fine quarterback in Jeff George.

But the Eagles are the ninth-ranked defense in the league. "We`re pretty good," Dawkins said. "They`re good and we`re good. Sunday is going to be one of those battles you like to be a part of. They`re going to come right after us and we`re going to do the same to them."

(Copyright 2000 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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Author: AP