The End Of The Cowboy Curse?

Unless you have been living in a remote location without access to television, the internet, and print media, you could not help but hear the fatalistic predictions regarding the December-January swoon of the Dallas Cowboys. After losing their first two December games to the Giants and Chargers, it seemed inevitable that this "curse" was once again rearing its ugly head. Nationwide sports shows were blaming the usual suspects: Wade Philips, Tony Romo, and above all, the teams' lack of intestinal fortitude.

Despite losing their first two December games there was one major difference- the performance of quarterback Tony Romo. In prior seasons Romo was scene as the root cause of the collapse and his statistics supported those claims. This year Romo has displayed far more confidence and a type of leadership that has even his most ardent detractors singing a different tune. As for coach Philips, the classic "Wadeface", where he constantly looks bewildered regardless of the what is taking place, has not changed a bit. However, Philips is not required to be a tactical genius, he is a players coach whose primary responsibility is to make sure his team is motivated. With a team that is exhibiting leadership, his lack of discipline is no longer as much of a detriment .

In addition to superhuman performances by Demarcus Ware, the rest of the Cowboys defense is stepping up as well. While the performance in Washington is not a referendum on how improved this unit has become, the game in New Orleans certainly was. Although the post season has yet to begin, there is just a different feeling I have about this Cowboys team. While I do not envision a Superbowl run, they will be a tough out in the playoffs and this is a difficult team to matchup against.

Another important factor has been the recent annointment of the Eagles as the NFC East team to beat. Furthermore, most pundits are predicting the Eagles to represent the NFC in the Superbowl. In prior years the Cowboys have succumbed to the pressure of being favorites within their division and this year they appear almost oblivious to it.

While the Cowboys are the home team and have already beaten the Eagles earlier this season, many people expect the Eagles to win tomorrow's game. I however think Dallas wins this game and captures the NFC East division. The public is on the Eagles bandwagon yet the spread remains firm at Cowboys -3. This is surprising considering how much the public usually leans towards the Cowboys.

With a division title under their belt I think it would be safe to put this late season curse behind the Cowboys. One thing that should concern Cowboys fans is the potential for a rematch against the Eagles the following week. If this does happen, the Cowboys find themselves in the unenviable position of having to beat a hated division rival three times in the same season. Again, just something to think about for Cowboy fans who will be celebrating tomorrow's win.