http://www.sbnation.comhttp://www.sbnation.com/users/Behan01 Posts made by Behan01 on SB Nation http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2008/11/13/660515/are-the-eagles-just-unluck Behan01 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:35:37 -0000 <p>The Eagles currently sit near the top of many statistical tables, including most advanced metrics.&nbsp; They are second in overall DVOA, and in the top ten on both offense and defense.&nbsp; They are third in the league in point differential, and are in the top ten in both points scored and surrendered per game.&nbsp; Footballoutsiders predicts that, based on their numbers and schedule, they would average 6.6 wins. &nbsp;</p> <p>We all know the results aren't there.&nbsp; The question is why?&nbsp; The answer may be that they are just unlucky.&nbsp;</p> <p>One argument that the Eagles are unlucky is that opposing kickers are eating them alive.&nbsp; Opposing kickers have hit 100% of their field goals against the Eagles.&nbsp; Only the Steelers and Ravens have that same problem.&nbsp; Unlike those teams, opposing kickers are an amazing 4/4 from 50+ against the Eagles, 9/9 from 40+.</p> <p>The other traditional luck argument is recovering fumbles.&nbsp; The Eagles are actually having a good year recovering fumbles, recovering half of their offensive or special teams fumbles (4 of 8) and 7 of the 10 fumbles the defense has caused.</p> <p>The kicking thing is certainly weird, but can that alone account for the Eagles underperforming their metrics?&nbsp;</p> <p>By the way, this site notes that the Eagles were one of the unluckiest teams last seasons:</p> <p>http://www.advancednflstats.com/2008/01/luckiest-teams-2007.html</p> <p>The other interesting questions:</p> <p>Is this just prolonged bad luck, or is there something about this team that brings the bad luck upon these Eagles?&nbsp; Have they angered the football gods, is Andy just a mush now?</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>