NFC Championship - 2009

Just finished watching the NFC championship game between Philadelphia Eages and Arizona Cardinals. An exciting game with plenty of ups and downs. Going into half-time, it seemed the Cardinals had it all figured out, their defense stifling McNabb and Co. while Cardinals offense on fire with QB Kurt Warner leading the way making quick, accurate decisions, connecting with star WR Larry Fitzgerald three times, including a monster 60+ yard throw in the 2nd quarter off a trick play.

Eagles came roaring back in the 2nd half with their defense making required adjustments to cover Fitzgerald and DB's blitzing Warner, McNabb led effective drives (finding celek twice) and threw a bomb to rookie WR DeSean Jackson to take the lead, and all the momentum, early in the the 4th quarter. The Cardinals, however proved they had plenty of weapons with rookie RB Tim Hightower shoving, rushing and fighting his way into the Eagles red zone with a little over 2:50 minutes to go. Eagles fell short. They were many missed opportunities for the Eagles who looked to be the dark horse after beating the NY Giants last week. But there was just not enough time left on the clock for Eagles.

Cardinals have faced constant criticism since the beginning of this season which often comes from playing in a decidedly mediocre division (NFC West). They did have it easy getting into the playoffs cos despite getting off to a decent start they faltered towards the end and clinched the playoffs purely by winning their weak division. But they have plenty of fire power. Three match-winning WR's - Boldin, Fitzgerald and Breaston, effective RB's - Hightower, Edge James (who was used sparingly in the regular season but made it count in the playoffs) and Arrington. But probably the key was their QB - Kurt Warner who was competing with former USC super QB Matt Leinart. Second year coach Ken Wisenhunt decided to go with Warner after Leinart had a disappointing game in the 2nd pre-season game. It has definitely proved to be an excellent decision.

Now Cardinals will face the winner between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens.

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