PHILADELPHIA — Donovan McNabb flexed his muscles, seemingly mocking Terrell Owens. The always stoic Andy Reid played cheerleader, encouraging the crowd to make noise.
Many fans may not want the quarterback or coach back for another season. But they’ll be here for at least one more game — a playoff game.
The Philadelphia Eagles overcame daunting odds to capture an NFC wild-card spot with a dominating 44-6 victory over the Cowboys on Sunday. So much for all that preseason Super Bowl hype in Dallas — America’s Team can start its vacation plans early.
The Eagles (9-6-1) will play at NFC North champion Minnesota (10-6) on Sunday.
“A lot of people counted us out and said it was over,” McNabb said. “We continued to stay focused on what the plan was.”
In a game that became do-or-die for both teams shortly before kickoff, the Eagles thoroughly outplayed the error-prone Cowboys (9-7) in every facet. McNabb threw two touchdown passes and ran for another, and Brian Dawkins forced two fumbles that were returned for scores.
Written off after a 10-3 loss at Washington last Sunday, Philadelphia avoided elimination when Oakland upset Tampa Bay and Houston beat Chicago in earlier games.
Of all the teams that remained in contention for a playoff berth entering the final weekend, the Eagles had the lowest odds.
Meanwhile, Dallas knew all week it just had to win to get in. How ’bout them Cowboys!
Tony Romo came up short in another crucial game, dropping his record to 5-8 in December. T.O. was a nonfactor, despite six catches for 103 yards.
“They just handed us an old-fashioned butt whipping,” Owens said. “I don’t have all the answers, but I’d love to be part of the solution.”
