May The Best Coach Win
The Dallas Cowboys had had three consecutive 5-11 records when Bill Parcells was brought in to take over three years ago. The New York Giants entrusted their fortunes to Tom Coughlin, a one-time Parcells assistant, after losing their last eight games to end up 4-12 two years ago.
Both coaches have lived up to expectations by turning their teams around. With the four-time defending NFC East champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, out of the picture, The Giants and the Cowboys are tied for the lead at 7-4. This is a game that could ecide where the divisional title ends up.
"It's been Dallas and us every week," the Giants' Antonio Pierce says. "You kind of figure whoever wins this game will win the division."
The coaches:
Tom Coughlin
New York Giants
NFL record: 85-78
2005 record: 7-4, tied for first in NFC East
Coaching highlights: Transformed Giants from also-ran to contender in his second season. Named Jacksonville's first head coach and took the club to the AFC Championship Game in 1996. Guided Jaguars to the playoffs in four of their first five seasons — the only expansion team to accomplish that.
Bill Parcells
Dallas Cowboys
NFL record: 172-127-1
2005 record: 7-4, tied for first in NFC East
Coaching highlights: Restored pride to downtrodden franchise, adding to his reputation as a brilliant coach. First head coach to lead four different teams to play-offs. Enjoyed greatest success with Giants from 1983-90, winning two Super Bowls in that span. Ranks as ninth coach in league history - in terms of games won. He trails only San Diego's Marty Schottenheimer (189) among active coaches in wins.
