NFC EAST Eagles, McNabb run past Giants
Philadelphia rushed for 299 yards, including a 40-yard run by McNabb in the 17-3 win.
PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Donovan McNabb and the Philadelphia Eagles ran to daylight against the New York Giants -- on the ground and in the NFC East standings.
McNabb scored on a spectacular 40-yard scramble and the Eagles shredded New York's defense for 299 yards rushing Monday night in posting a 17-3 victory and taking a two-game lead over the Giants and Washington in the NFC East.
With nine games remaining in the season, the Eagles (5-2) are seemingly well on their way to a second straight division title and the Giants (3-4) seem as if they're headed for another season that won't include a playoff appearance.
"Whatever it takes," McNabb said after gaining 111 yards on seven carries. "That's always been my attitude. You don't have to go out and pass for 300 or 400 yards every game. If it's me rushing for whatever so we can get that big win, I think that's the most important thing."
Staley gains 126 yards
Duce Staley gained 126 yards on 24 carries. The Eagles' offensive line helped the backs average 7.7 yards, and Philadelphia's defense limited the Giants to a field goal and forced a crucial third-quarter fumble by rookie fullback Charles Stackhouse at the 1-yard line when New York appeared on the verge of a go-ahead score.
Even with all the mistakes, the Giants still had a chance to spoil the final Monday night game at Veterans Stadium. Down by six early in the fourth quarter, Matt Allen had a punt roll dead at the Eagles 1.
All the Giants needed from their defense -- which was playing without injured defensive tackle Keith Hamilton -- was one stand. One stand and they would get the ball in great position. It never happened.
McNabb, who was 14-of-30 for 137 yards, completed a 5-yard third-down pass to Antonio Freeman for a first down and the Eagles were off and flying. Staley ran for 17 yards on the next play, and McNabb hit James Thrash for 32 yards two plays later to get the ball to the New York 39. Two plays later, McNabb scored to ice the game.