Training Regimen Gave Douglas a Lift

In 1999, Eagle defensive end Hugh Douglas sat out most of the season because of a partial tear of his anterior cruciate ligament and a torn biceps tendon. The injuries, Douglas decided, were partly a result of lack of size.

Douglas has not been injured this season.

“I did more off-season weight training than ever before,” Douglas said, “and added about 15 pounds of muscle. I think it worked.”

Douglas has 60 tackles, 15 sacks, his first interception and his first trip to the Pro Bowl.

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The acquisition of running back Chris Warren in December might have been the Eagles’ most critical move.

The Eagles had been searching since Week 5 for a replacement for injured Duce Staley. Philadelphia signed Warren after he was cut by the Dallas Cowboys. The 11-year veteran gained 85 yards in 22 carries in the Eagles’ 21-3 wild-card victory over Tampa Bay last week. In the fourth quarter, with the Eagles trying to run clock, Warren gained 42 yards.

“He is going to put some pressure on the Giants’ defense because we do have someone now besides Donovan [McNabb] who can run the ball,” Eagle Coach Andy Reid said.

“He makes a very big difference for us,” McNabb said. “He also has good hands. He can catch the ball coming out of the backfield. He gives us lots more options.”

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This will be a big game for Giant rookie Ron Dayne, the 1999 Heisman Trophy winner who gained more than 400 yards in two Rose Bowl appearances for Wisconsin but has been a disappointment in the NFL. Dayne has gained only 42 yards in his last 25 carries, but Coach Jim Fassel said Dayne will have a big role.

The Giants’ top rusher, Tiki Barber, must wear a protective cast on his broken left arm. Though the cast has been cut down significantly, and though Barber said the cast won’t hinder him, Fassel has said that “Ron Dayne could be the key.”

“I’m ready for whatever is asked,” Dayne said. “I feel real comfortable. I know the coach has some faith in me and that’s a good thing. I don’t know how many times I’ll get the ball, but however many, I’m ready.”