ARLINGTON -- The outcome was as disappointing as it was uncharacteristic.
What was the most surprising regular season in Cowboys history ended like so many others before it. When Mason Crosby's 51-yard field goal sailed through the uprights Sunday as time expired, the Cowboys were saddled with a 34-31 loss and the realization that for the 21st consecutive season this franchise won't advance to the NFC Championship Game.
Some will seek solace by claiming that Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers was just too good and this Cowboys team too young. A team that prides itself on setting the tone by jumping out to early leads fell behind 21-3 and was forced to claw its way back all afternoon.