DFW SPORTS MIX By Don Arnick
«They were better all the way around in every phase.» That was Philadelphia Eagles Coach Andy Reid after the third Cowboys-Eagles go round. This one was for playoff advancement. For the Dallas Cowboys, a chance to slay some demons. They slayed three of them, barriers that has blocked them from playoff advancement forthe last 13 years. For the team, a 13 year drought from winning a playoff game. They did that in dominating fashion with a defense that is putting a stranglehold on opponents. Two touchdowns in the last three games shows that Dallas D has the stuff that Super Bowl Champions have. We will see.
The offense was clicking too. Running back Felix Jones had a big game, a 143 yard night, which included a 78 yard run to put the game away. And his role might increase if Marion Barber does not go. He has bruised knee issues that kept him from playing.
Another demon slayed, Tony Romo winning his first playoff game. He passed for 248 yards,with two touchdowns. Even got Roy Williams in the mix with 5 catches for 48 yards. Tony is playing his best football of his career, and it is during the part of the season when you need to peak as a team progresses along in the post season.
The last demon, Coach Wade Phillips winning his first playoff game. Most fans wanted him fired halfway into the season. Most fans wanted him gone the moment he arrived to town three years ago. Now Coach Phillips has the Cowboys in the second round with a date with the Minnesota Vikings. With a defense that some fans are comparing with the Doomday defense of past seasons.
With the 34-14 win over Philly, the Cowboys got king kong off their back. No telling how far this team can go, we maybe seeing something special here.
While Major League Baseball is still trying to approve the new Texas Rangers ownership lead by Nolan Ryan, the Rangers are still aggressive in getting players. With Marlon Byrd flying the coup to Chicago and the Cubs, the Rangers got a player that has given them fits over the years. Vladimir Guerreo is now a Rangers after being with the LA Angels. He will be in center field, and will be a designated hitter too. This is a great find for the Rangers, who might not be done with getting players.
And the Dallas Mavericks welcome the return of Edwardo Najera, who was playing with New Jersey this season. This is Edwardo’s second go round with Dallas, who give up 2 bench players to get him.
