Despite fine season, Eagles still stuck in reverse

NEW ORLEANS - Their 46th consecutive disappointing season was over for about 15 minutes, and already the 2006 Eagles were seeking some separation from the previous 45.

A 27-24 loss to the New Orleans Saints had ended both a six-game winning streak and their belated scramble to fulfillment. Their championship parade, then, would follow the usual route: From One NovaCare Way to Two NovaCare Way, and back.

But the Birds had achieved plenty without injured quarterback Donovan McNabb, including a division championship and double-figure Ws. So, to a man, from the owner down, they would send out an invoice, demanding payment in full of respect.