Getty ImagesWhile the Eagles are heading to the playoffs after winning the division for the fifth time in six years, the Falcons face an uncertain offseason. Coach Jim Mora’s status already was tenuous before he angered owner Arthur Blank by telling a Seattle radio station he would be interested in the University of Washington job, even if the Falcons were in the playoffs — and without the position being open.
Mora apologized for his comments, saying his intended sarcasm in the radio interview was not understood. But the damage may be irreparable.
“I have a strong passion for this organization. I love this organization,” Mora said. “Of course I want to be here. It’s all I’ve ever wanted.”
It was only two years ago the Falcons played in the NFC championship game, a 27-10 loss in Philadelphia. But they were 8-8 last year and lost seven of nine after a 5-2 start this season.
“We dedicated ourselves to really having a good season this year,” Vick said. “I feel like every guy in that room put the time in. It’s disappointing because things didn’t go the way we expected them to go.”
The Eagles also struggled after a strong start. They opened 4-1 before losing five of six, but it turned our great in the end.
When the final score from Texas Stadium flashed on the scoreboard early in the first quarter, fans cheered wildly and hurled derisive chants at the Cowboys. Now, the Philly faithful can direct their venom toward the Giants. The teams split two meetings this year, with each winning on the road.
Though finishing in first place was quite an accomplishment for the Eagles this season, many veteran players didn’t even wear the championship hats or T-shirts.
“We didn’t do too much celebrating because this is just the first step,” Trotter said. “We want the big one.”
Notes: Philadelphia is 22-8 in December since 2000. ... Dawkins played in his 157th game, tying Guy Morriss for fourth-most in team history. ... Vick is 1-3 against the Eagles, including playoff losses in 2002 and 2004. ... The Eagles’ five offensive linemen started every game for the second time in team history. The other time was in 2000. ... Baskett is the first Eagles player to have two TD catches of more than 80 yards in the same season. He had an 87-yard TD catch against Dallas on Oct. 8.
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