Dallas took convincing control over the NFC East by thumping New York, their closest division rivals. The Giants had a six-game winning streak, but they could not overcome another stellar game from Tony Romo—four touchdowns, including two long lobs to Terrell Owens—plus costly penalties that eliminated a touchdown run and a long kickoff return.
The Cowboys could have put the game away earlier were it not for a barrage of early penalties. Jeremy Shockey shined in the loss, grabbing 12 passes for 129 yards and an early score; Eli Manning threw two picks, one when his arm was hit as he threw, one on the final play of the game. Dallas swept the series, which began with a wild 45-35 season opener, given them what is in effect a three-game division lead. (More NFL stories.)