Saints vs. Cowboys: The Dallas Cowboys Shake Off Their December Chill To Cool Off New Orleans

No it isn't Ali over Liston; nor is it the U.S. hockey team defeating the Soviets in the 1980 Olympics, but for one night the Dallas Cowboys have shaken-up the world of NFL football. The Dallas Cowboys (9-5), who have found it difficult to win in December, upset an New Orleans Saints team (13-1) that has found it difficult to lose all year, 24-17 ending the Saints chance at an undefeated season. Dallas quarterback Tony Romo who has come under a lot of scrutiny for his inability to win games in December, has silenced his critics for at least one week.

The Cowboys defense came up big in this game shadowing the Saints receivers all over the field --- their longest receiving play was only, a mere-mortal, 27 yards. Dallas also got a great deal of aid from an uncharacteristically-off Drew Brees who produced three turnovers all on his own --- 1 interception and 2 fumbles. One of those fumbles came with about 12 seconds left in the game and sealed the win for the Cowboys.

The Dallas running game showed up for Cowboys as well as they produced 145 yards on the ground. Marion Barber sparked the run game early, keeping the Saints defense on their toes --- he finished the game with 62 yards on 17 carries and two touchdowns. Tony Romo played mistake-free and stellar ball, completing 22 of 34 passes for 312 yards and one touchdown. Of those 22 completions, he connected with the red-hot Miles Austin 7 times for 139 yards including a 49 yard strike for the game's first score.

You would be hard-pressed to find a NFL analyst who gave this Cowboys team a chance against this near-invincible looking New Orleans team. This win keeps Dallas in the hunt for the NFC East crown and a wild-card spot. New Orleans may not have a perfect season to play for any longer, but they are still battling the Minnesota Vikings for home-field advantage throughout the playoffs --- and this loss puts more pressure on them to win the rest of their games.

The December-monkey may not be completely off Tony Romo's back, but for now, it doesn't appear to be riding him as hard.