Cowboys need to finish strong

In 15 seasons with the Giants, Patriots and Jets, Parcells' teams were an outstanding 51-24 over the final five games of each seasons. He had a winning record 13 times, including three 5-0 finishes.

In Dallas, however, the Cowboys have gone 2-3 all three years. That's more losing records than he had at all his other stops combined.

But if the Cowboys win, spirits would be soaring, as would their chances of winning the division. They'd also be eyeing New Orleans and Seattle for a first-round bye and perhaps even Chicago for home-field advantage in the playoffs.

The last time Dallas enjoyed either of those rewards? 1995, the year of the Cowboys' last Super Bowl title. And, as most fans are painfully aware, the club hasn't won a playoff game since 1996.

The 3-4 defense has held the Bears to three touchdowns in three games this season. That constitutes more trend than glitch.

The only three 3-4 defenses they have faced - the Dolphins, Jets and Patriots - have held them to their three lowest scores in their 9-2 season.

The one team in the NFC that uses it as its primary defense is the Cowboys, which is one reason the Bears are assigning a scout to check out the Cowboys at their game Sunday against the Giants in New Jersey.

It's six weeks until the Bears are likely to be in a playoff game, but it's never too early to start preparing, and the Cowboys look like just about the only NFC team besides the Bears interested in playing in January.

The Cowboys have released guard Matt Tarullo and defensive tackle Remi Ayodele from the practice squad, and signed tight end Tony "Some Like it Hot" Curtis.

That leaves the club with an open spot on the practice squad if anyone's interested.

"So I don't have to answer any more questions about this, I'm not dating Jessica Simpson, nor have I gone on a date with her," Romo said while laughing. "I appreciate everyone's interest in my social life, but I think I may try to play it close to the vest from here on out."