Dawkins Ready as Eagles Tackle Redskins

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
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