So far, Vick hasn't had much chance to show his skills

By Rob Maaddi
The Associated Press

PHILADELPHIA

Michael Vick knows how to hand off. He still has to work on his blocking and route running.

Two games into his return to the NFL, Vick hasn't done a lot for the Philadelphia Eagles. The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback was expected to add a new dimension to an already potent offense. So far, he's been a decoy.

Used primarily to run Philadelphia's version of the wildcat offense, Vick has come in for 17 plays in non-garbage time. He's lined up at quarterback 13 times and was split out as a wide receiver on four plays. His totals: two incomplete passes, one carry for 7 yards, no catches or intended passes, 10 handoffs.

Clearly, the Eagles brought Vick in to do more. But coach Andy Reid and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg are in no rush to show opposing defenses too much. The Eagles routed Kansas City 34-14 in Vick's debut in Week 3 and easily beat Tampa Bay 33-14 on Sunday.

There was no need to resort to trickery against those teams. Not when Vick is getting acclimated to playing again after spending 18 months in prison for his role in running a dogfighting operation.

"You don't want to show your hand every time you play," quarterback Donovan McNabb said. "Believe me, we have a lot more in store for what we want to do this year. "

With Oakland (1-4) and Washington (2-3) next on the schedule, it's not likely Vick will soon get a chance to really run the wildcat. Maybe the Eagles will save those innovative plays for the New York Giants (5-0) on Nov. 1.

Vick had an opportunity to run the traditional offense the final two series against the Bucs because of the lopsided score. He completed 1 of 3 passes for 1 yard and showed off his running skills with an 11-yard scramble, taking a hard shot to the ribs on the play.

"Being under center is more natural," Vick said. "That is what I like to do, that's what I enjoy. In due time, I will get my opportunity."

That probably won't happen in Philadelphia unless McNabb and Kolb are hurt.

For now, Vick has to settle for whatever he can get.

The game plan varies every week and it's adjusted depending on circumstances in each game. There's no telling how much Vick will play or what he'll do.

"If we like it one week, we use it. If we don't, we won't," Reid said.