Colts look to end losing "streak" against McNabb-less Eagles

The first loss of the year can be a humbling one, and it was for the Colts. Peyton Manning seemed particularly down about what he saw on film this week -- probably because he was involved in three of the four turnovers. Avoiding turnovers, more than anything, could be the key to beating the Eagles on Sunday night. Manning expressed regret that Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb is out for the season, but he and others made sure not to take Jeff Garcia lightly.

Garcia was a strong quarterback, but he hasn't been consistently effective since he left San Francisco. He will be a big target for Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis if the Colts can stifle the running of Brian Westbrook. I thought the run defense showed improvement last week and injured linebacker Gary Brackett told me he's "ready to give it a go" this week, so that should help as well. One positive of Brackett's absence was the play of Rob Morris. He showed he still has the skills to do a decent job at linebacker and makes the team stronger at that spot.

No word yet on whether Bob Sanders or Brandon Stokley will return this week. As we get later and later into the season, it's a legitimate question whether Stokley will be able to have the timing necessary to be effective once he returns. His experience suggests he will, but a player still needs game-time play to sharpen those instincts. To be effective come playoff time, he needs to return to the lineup for at least the last three or four regular-season games.

The Colts were scheduled for a short practice time today before heading to their various Thanksgiving get-togethers. Manning planned to have about 10 teammates over, including most of his offensive linemen. He won't be cooking. "Ashley (his wife) is going to take care of that," Manning said. Brackett said he is also hosting a meal and "everyone's invited." I'm not sure he should have said that to the media. We've been known to jump at free meal.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone. Count your blessings.