Congratulations are in order for the NFC East champion Dallas Cowboys. After posting consecutive shutouts for the first time in franchise history in a 24-0 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, the Cowboys claimed their second division title in three years. The reward: a rematch against the one and same Eagles.
Now THAT’s the Marion the Barbarian we know and love. Marion Barber had 14 carries for 91 yards and 1 catch for 14 yards, included in that a nifty 32 yard run on the second play from scrimmage that led to the game’s first touchdown. Barber appeared to be more aggressive this time around and ran with a purpose. They were also able to spread out his carries over the course of the game as to not have a worn out Barbarian going into the 4th quarter.
Felix Jones seems to be rounding back into the form he was in before he got injured last season. Jones had 15 carries for 91 yards and 1 touchdown as well as 3 catches for 3 yards. The touchdown came on an impressive run down the left sideline, featuring an escort by Doug Free who provided some key blocks on the play. Felix is showing more speed and more burst each week. Hopefully he can stay healthy in the offseason and be full strength to start next season.
Not much to say about Tashard Choice since he didn’t log a carry or catch in this game. In fact, he suffered a concussion after taking a knee in the helmet in the 1st quarter. Reports are saying there’s a chance he’ll play Saturday night, be that remains to be seen.
The regular season is over and now the real fun begins, as the Cowboys host the Eagles in the Wild Card round of the playoffs Saturday night at the Death Star. It will be very interesting to see what kind of adjustments both teams make after facing each other less than a week before. I would expect a much more aggressive, physical approach from the Eagles and the Cowboys not only need to match that level of intensity, they also need to overcome whatever mental demons they may have as a team if they’re going to win their first playoff game since 1996.
GO COWBOYS!!!
