Jan 11 2009
Eagles, Steelers Advance
The first-ever all-Pennsylvania Super Bowl remains a possibility after Philadelphia and Pittsburgh won divisional playoff games Sunday. Philadelphia defeated New York, 23-11, and Pittsburgh beat San Diego, 35-24.
New York’s reign as NFL champion ended with a home loss to a NFC East rival. The Giants (12-5) started the season 11-1 but lost four of their five contests. Philadelphia (11-6-1) trailed, 11-10, in the third quarter but scored the game’s final 13 points. The Eagles did not allow a touchdown.
San Diego (9-9) scored two minutes into the game and seemed poised to avenge an 11-10 regular-season loss to Pittsburgh. However, the Steelers (13-4) got their offense rolling late in the first half and led at the break, 14-10. San Diego only ran one offensive play in the third quarter. Pittsburgh’s offense wore down the Charger defense and registered three second-half touchdowns.
The conference championship games will be next Sunday. Arizona will host Philadelphia followed by Baltimore playing at Pittsburgh.
EAGLES!
Congratulations, Dletus.
Purple, I agree the all-Pennsylvania game would draw big TV numbers. Arizona and Baltimore won’t do so.
I think Philadelphia might be the underdog. The Eagles were lucky to get in the playoffs while Arizona clinched the NFC West a month early. Philadelphia will be playing its third consecutive road game while Arizona is much better at home. That said, I’ll still take the Eagles.
I had a moment of madness last night (fully encouraged by my wife, who is too dang good to me)and am now flying from London to Phoenix for the weekend to go to the Eagles game with two of my brothers (one lives in Phoenix, the other is driving out from California with my nephew). Should be a good but tiring weekend.
Dletus, enjoy your trip. It’ll be long but it’ll be a great experience. Granted, a better experience if your team wins but great in any case.