The Dallas Cowboys have pulled off their first playoff win in years. Tony Romo is now 1-2 in the playoffs, and Wade Phillips finally has won one himself. Phillips and Romo had been known as "choke artists" in the past years, Romo fumbling a kicker hold against the Seattle Seahawks and throwing an interception late against the New York Giants.
However, not only did they win, but they won in convincing fashion against the Philadelphia Eagles. Holding one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL to 14 points in two games, the defense is playing inspired football. With the front 7 applying pressure on the running game and the quarterback, the secondary locks down on big name receivers. Next week is a favorable match up against the Minnesota Vikings offensive line. They continue to allow Favre to be sacked, and Adrian Peterson is unable to have his explosive speed contribute when he can barely get to the line of scrimmage.
Romo continues to play the best football of his career with 2 touchdowns and 244 yards. This is far from the Romo of December and January's past; he has truly learned how to hold onto the ball and avoid turnovers while still being a big play threat. Miles Austin is his deep threat, but Jason Witten and Patrick Crayton continue to be huge 3rd down targets. Even Roy Williams is looking in sync with Romo, catching a bullet pass that was way over his head.
The Vikings had a great regular season, but were beginning to see a bit of slump towards the end. The defense was unable to harass opposing quarterbacks and the offense was stagnant at times. As Favre is pressured more and becomes frustrated, he makes far more errant passes. The lone exception to this was the beat down the Vikes put on the Giants in the final game of the regular season. They began to combine everything they had put together early in the season and were able to rebuild some confidence. Still, with a bye week they could be sluggish. Only time will tell how this match up will end, but you have to like the Cowboys chances.
