Cowboys Scratch Panthers From Playoffs, Terrell Owens Out With High Ankle Sprain

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The Dallas Cowboys got past the Carolina Panthers 20-13 tonight and moved a step closer to home field throughout the playoffs. But WR Terrell Owens left the game midway through the second quarter after catching five balls for 48 yards and a TD and never returned. He was diagnosed as having a high ankle sprain which can be an annoying, lingering type of injury.

Dallas had to rely on their running game and defense to get this win. But that’s exactly how they’re going to get anywhere in the playoffs anyway, so this was a good test of their ability to do just that. Tony Romo’s hand injury seems to be fine. He threw the ball 42 times. But it was All-Pro Marion Barber, who seems to have taken over the top spot at running back, making the difference. He had 22 carries for 110 yards. The Dallas D had five sacks and an INT.

From what I know about high ankle sprains, TO will be hampered for up to a month. But also knowing what I do about TO’s resiliency and ability to heal quickly (remember Super Bowl XXXIX), I’ll bet he’s back for the Cowboys’ Divisional playoff game. Don’t feel sorry for Dallas. They’ll somehow be at full-strength when the playoffs begin.