We have all discussed this issues with the long pass plays on 3rd and short.  Especially with Hixon.  Anyways where is Steve Smith in the slot running a slant where the blitzing LBs used to be.  That has always been our bread and butter play.  After getting so many balls thrown his way in the first 4-5 weeks he has been targeted alot less.  I say throw it to Smith short pick up the first down and then, go long on 1st down. 

Maybe Eli just wants to give these guys a shot to make plays.  I mean if Mario or Hixon or Nicks catches a deep ball on 3rd and short the past few weeks the game could have changed drastically, but it didnt happen.  Lets see if we play a little more conservative against the Eagles and stay with a short passing game.