Are Eagles poised for 'dream' year?

The “Dream Team” season turned into a nightmare, as the Eagles fell well shy of expectations in 2011 and finished a disappointing 8-8 and excluded from the postseason.

But with different circumstances in 2012, could this upcoming year be Philly’s “dream” season?

Don Banks of Sports Illustrated believes the Birds are primed for a big year despite the defending champion Giants, Robert Griffin III and the ‘Skins and the talent of Dallas making up a solid NFC East, once again.

“In an NFC East that features the moxie and resiliency of the defending Super Bowl champion Giants, the fresh dose of energy and excitement Robert Griffin brings to Washington, and the always intriguing talent and potential of the Dallas Cowboys, it's the Philadelphia Eagles -- Team Underachievement last year -- that I think is in the best position of all as the 2012 season looms in the not too distant future,” wrote Banks.

Banks focuses on the productive off-season by the Eagles, the defensive-minded draft choices and new contract extensions for DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy, Trent Cole and Todd Herremans, that will result in a big year for Andy Reid’s crew.

Whether that will ring true or not, Banks knows one thing for sure: Philadelphia fans are anxiously awaiting the start of the 2012 season.

“Last year's Eagles certainly didn't capitalize on their opportunity,” he wrote. “Is there anywhere in the NFL where they're happier to see the approach of a new season than Philadelphia?”