What the first game is worth

As training camp comes to an expiration at Lehigh University, many of the players have seemed to impressed the coaching staff thus far. Aside from two weeks of grueling, agonizing training camp, these players really havent seen much action outside of their own schemes and own teammates. When the Eagles play the Ravens in an exhibiton game Monday in Baltimore, it will be the first time these players get to shed their wings and compete against different playcalling and a different atmosphere. So what does it all mean? When in all, its really just a meaningless game but, on the flipside that game is huge to some rookies and undrafted free agents trying to make this football team. The game gives the Eagles young crop an oppurtunity to get under the lights and make plays out on the field in front of thousands. Alluding to the rookies, there are a few veterans on this team, who are considerably on the "bubble" and need this game, to raise a few eye brows on the coaches. Guys like Jerome McDougle, Ryan Moats and, Kelly Kolcomb are a few names that have been tossed around these last couple of weeks. For the veterans, its a begining of a new season and a quest for that elusive Superbowl ring. Generally speaking, head coach Andy Reid wont play many normal starters. One guy who will get the nod is strong side linebacker Chris Gocong. Gocong is a one year veteran that missed all of last season on IR with a stinger. Gocong is expected to be teams starter at that position this season, and despite high expectations from coaches, scouts and, fans Gocong has never appeared in an NFL game. Other guys like Sean Considine, Omar Gaither, Broderick Bunkley etc. will be the guys who see the most playing time. So while the game may mean absolutley nothing in the standings, it is pivitol in the eyes of many players as well as the Eagles coaching staff.