4th and 26: Difference between revisions

4th and 26
17	20
Date	January 11, 2004
Stadium	Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Favorite	Eagles by 5.5
Referee	Ed Hochuli
Attendance	67,707
Hall of Famers
	Packers: Brett Favre; Eagles: Brian Dawkins
TV in the United States
Network	Fox
Announcers	Joe Buck, Troy Aikman and Cris Collinsworth

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4th and 26 was a National Football League (NFL) game played on January 11, 2004, between the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles during the 2003–04 playoffs. The Packers travelled to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for a divisional playoff game after beating the Seattle Seahawks in a wild card game the week prior. After taking an early 14–0 lead, the Packers allowed the Eagles to tie the game in the fourth quarter, 14–14. After the Packers regained the lead on a late field goal, the Eagles got the ball with only a few minutes left to tie or take the lead. After a penalty and a sack pushed the Eagles back 16 yards, they faced a fourth down with 26 yards to go with just 1:12 left on the game clock. Eagles' quarterback Donovan McNabb completed a 28-yard pass to wide receiver Freddie Mitchell for a first down. The Eagles continued their drive with a tying field goal to send the game into overtime. After the Eagles intercepted Packers' quarterback Brett Favre, kicker David Akers kicked a game-winning field goal to send the Eagles to the NFC Championship Game, which they would go on to lose 14–3 to the Carolina Panthers.

Background

The Green Bay Packers went 10–6 during the 2003 NFL season, enough to win the NFC North after ending the year on a 4-game winning streak. This included a 17–14 regular season loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 10.^[1] The Eagles won the NFC East after going 12–4, which included a 9-game winning streak in the middle of the season. This record was enough to secure the 1st seed in the 2003–04 NFL playoffs and a first-round bye.^[2] The Packers saw success throughout the season behind the passing acumen of Brett Favre, who threw for 32 touchdowns and over 3,300 yards, and the rushing success of Ahman Green, who ran for 15 touchdowns and a team-record 1,883 yards.^[1]^[3] The Eagles success primarily came from quarterback Donovan McNabb, who accumulated almost 3,600 yards combined passing and rushing.^[4]^[2] The Eagles relied on a "running back-by-committee" approach with Brian Westbrook, Correll Buckhalter and Duce Staley all rushing for over 450 yards for the season.^[5]^[2] Both teams employed defensive units ranked in the top 15 by scoring.^[6]

The Packers hosted the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the playoffs, winning 33–27 in overtime courtesy of an interception returned for a touchdown by former Eagle Al Harris (known as the We want the ball and we're going to score! game).^[7] As the first seed in the playoffs, the Eagles secured home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.^[8] Thus, the divisional round playoff game was hosted by the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, scheduled for the evening of Sunday, January 11, 2004.^[9] This would be the second postseason meeting between the Packers and Eagles; the previous meeting was back in the 1960 NFL Championship Game, which the Eagles won 17–13.^[10]^[11] The Eagles were 5.5 point favorites over the Packers.^[4]

Game summary

Photo of an empty Lincoln Financial Field — Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia, the site of the game.

First half

The game began with the four consecutive punts, two by each team. Midway through the first quarter, Eagles' quarterback Donovan McNabb fumbled the ball on the Eagles' 40-yard line, which Packers' linebacker Nick Barnett recovered. Packers' quarterback Brett Favre threw a 40-yard touchdown pass on the first play to Robert Ferguson to put the Packers on the scoreboard with a 7–0 lead. James Thrash returned the ensuing kickoff 36 yards to the 44-yard line. McNabb rushed for 41 yards on the first play to get the ball to the Packers 15-yard line. After a short rush and two incomplete passes, Eagles' kicker David Akers missed a 30-yard field goal attempt. After the missed field goal, Favre led the Packers on an 8-play, 88 -yard drive, which included a 26-yard run by Ahman Green. Favre threw his second touchdown pass to Ferguson from the 17-yard line, giving the Packers a 14–0 lead with 1:16 left in the first quarter. Both teams traded punts, before McNabb led the Eagles on their first scoring drive, completing five consecutive passes for 77 yards, including a 45-yard pass to Todd Pinkston. On the last play, his 7-yard touchdown pass to Duce Staley cut the lead to 14–7. The Packers took the ensuing kickoff and drove 67 yards to the Eagles' 1-yard line, featuring a 33-yard run by Green. On fourth down, Green was tackled for no gain. The Packers turned the ball over on downs and the Eagles ran out the rest of the time in the first half of the game.^[12]

Second half

The third quarter started with three short drives, each ending in a punt (two by the Packers and one by the Eagles). Late in the third quarter, the Eagles began an 8-play, 88-yard touchdown drive, despite two 10-yard penalties against them on the drive. McNabb was responsible for all of the yards on the drive, rushing for 37 yards and completing four passes for 72, including a 12-yard touchdown pass to Pinkston that tied the game at 14 on the first play of the fourth quarter. Each team punted once before the Packers began a 5-play, 48 yard drive that ended in a field goal. Starting at mid-field, Favre completed a 44-yard completion to Javon Walker, but the Packers were unable to get into the end zone. Ryan Longwell kicked a 21-yard field goal to give the Packers a 17–14 lead. The ensuing Eagles drive started with a 22-yard run by Duce Staley, but on the next play, McNabb threw for an incomplete pass. On second down the Eagles were penalized 5 yards for a false start and then a sack pushed the Eagles back to their own 26-yard line, and on third down McNabb threw another incompletion. The Eagles, faced with a fourth down and 26 yards, needed to convert for a first down, with only 1:12 remaining and one timeout left.^[12]

4th and 26

The fourth down play (74 Double Go) called for a slant route to Freddie Mitchell.^[13] McNabb threw a deep pass to Mitchell and the Packers' Cover 2 defensive coverage broke down, allowing the reception.^[14] Darren Sharper played past the first down marker, positioning himself for an interception rather than preventing any play in front of the line to gain. The only player that was close to making a play, Packers' safety Bhawoh Jue, was playing the sidelines and was too late to prevent the catch or first down.^[13] Mitchell completed the catch and was brought down at the Packers 46, giving the Eagles a first down.^[15]

End of the game

The Eagles gained another 27 yards, almost running the clock out, before Akers made a game-tying, 37-yard field goal, which led to the game going into overtime. The Eagles got the ball first, but punted after going three-and-out. On the first play of the Packers' drive, Eagles' safety Brian Dawkins intercepted a Favre pass and returned it 35 yards. The Eagles gained 21 yards to get into field goal range. Akers kicked a 31-yard, game-winning field goal attempt, giving the Eagles a 20–17 victory.^[12]

Box score

Divisional Playoffs: Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles – Game summary

Period	1	2	3	4	OT	Total
Packers	14	0	0	3	0	17
Eagles	0	7	0	10	3	20

at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Date: Sunday, January 11, 2004
Game time: 4:46pm
Game attendance: 67,707
Referee: Ed Hochuli
TV announcers (Fox): Joe Buck, Troy Aikman and Cris Collinsworth
Sources: ESPN.com^[16] and Pro-Football-Reference.com^[9]

Game information

First quarter

GB – Robert Ferguson 40-yard pass from Brett Favre (Ryan Longwell extra point), 7:54. Packers 7–0. Drive: 1 play, 40 yards, 0:17.
GB – Robert Ferguson 17-yard pass from Brett Favre (Ryan Longwell extra point), 1:31. Packers 14–0. Drive: 8 plays, 86 yards, 3:30.

Second quarter

PHI – Duce Staley 17-yard pass from Donovan McNabb (David Akers extra point), 6:32. Packers 14–7. Drive: 6 plays, 77 yards, 6:32.

Third quarter

No scoring

Fourth quarter

PHI – Todd Pinkston 17-yard pass from Donovan McNabb (David Akers extra point), 14:48. Tied 14–14. Drive: 8 plays, 89 yards, 15:27.
GB – Ryan Longwell 21-yard field goal, 10:22. Packers 17–14. Drive: 5 plays, 48 yards, 0:57.
PHI – David Akers 37-yard field goal, 0:05. Tied 17–17. Drive: 12 plays, 61 yards, 2:11.

Overtime

PHI – David Akers 31-yard field goal, 10:18. Eagles 20–17. Drive: 6 plays, 21 yards, 2:39.

Green Bay Packers stats

Passing

Brett Favre – 15/28, 180 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception

Rushing

Ahman Green – 25 rushes, 156 yards
Najeh Davenport – 9 rushes, 42 yards
Tony Fisher – 2 rushes, 9 yards
Brett Favre – 1 rush, 3 yards

Receiving

Robert Ferguson – 8 receptions, 146 yards, 2 touchdown
Javon Walker – 1 reception, 44 yards
Donald Driver – 2 receptions, 25 yards
Ahman Green – 3 receptions, 16 yards
Tony Fisher – 2 receptions, 13 yards
Wesley Walls – 1 reception, 7 yards
Bubba Franks – 1 reception, 6 yards
William Henderson – 1 reception, 4 yards

Philadelphia Eagles stats

Passing

Donovan McNabb – 21/39, 248 yards, 2 touchdowns

Rushing

Donovan McNabb – 11 rushes, 107 yards
Duce Staley – 5 rushes, 45 yards
Joique Bell – 8 rushes, 5 yards
Correll Buckhalter – 9 rushes, 12 yards

Receiving

Todd Pinkston – 7 receptions, 95 yards, 1 touchdown
Freddie Mitchell – 2 receptions, 37 yards
Chad Lewis – 4 receptions, 37 yards
L. J. Smith – 2 receptions, 31 yards
Duce Staley – 3 receptions, 26 yards, 1 touchdown
James Thrash – 1 reception, 9 yards
Reno Mahe – 1 reception, 8 yards
Correll Buckhalter – 1 reception, 5 yards

Analysis

The Eagles became just the second team in NFL history up to that point to win a playoff game after trailing by 14 points or more after the first quarter.^[15] The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel identified two series of events that led to the Eagles victory. First, in the second quarter the Packers were on the two-yard, close to scoring. Najeh Davenport was stopped inches short of the goal line, and then on fourth down, Ahman Green was again stopped short after Mark Tauscher was unable to complete his block, leading to a turnover on downs.^[14] A touchdown or even a field goal would have likely changed the dynamic of the game. The second key moment came in the fourth quarter, when the Packers were at mid-field with a fourth down and less than a yard to go. Even though the Eagles' defense seemed exhausted, the Packers decided to punt the ball instead of go for the first down, which likely would have ended the game.^[14]^[17] McNabb was recognized for his ability to extend plays, with Sports Illustrated commenting that he "spent much of the second half turning busted plays into big gainers", while also noting that Favre's only real mistake came at the worst time (the interception in overtime).^[18] Lastly, the Packers' defense was criticized for its strategy and execution on the fourth and 26 play.^[19]^[14] Even though the Packers had kept McNabb under constant pressure during the game, they chose to only rush four players on the fourth down play and go into a soft zone coverage.^[18] Darren Sharper appeared to position himself for an interception instead of trying to stop Mitchell from gaining the first down, while other Packers players in the secondary gave the Eagles too much space and time.^[13]

Legacy

Less than a week after the game, Packers defensive coordinator Ed Donatell was fired, with the failure on 4th and 26 noted as the key reason.^[19] The Eagles' win advanced them to the NFC Championship Game, which they lost to the Carolina Panthers, 14–3, ending their season.^[20]

In 2011 and 2012, the 4th and 26 play was noted in respective articles published in Advanced Football Analytics and the Journal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports. Both articles discussed the author's use of a Markov chain to estimate the probability of a series of football events. As the author wrote, "What are the odds that a drive containing a 4th-and-26 from the 25 would end with a successful field goal? According to the Markov model, a whopping 1 out of 175".^[21]^[22] Prior to a 2016 meeting in Philadelphia, the Eagles' scoreboard operator posted "4th and 26" as the down and distance to remind the Packers and their fans of that play. However, the Packers went on to win this game, 27–13.^[23]

4th and 26 was quickly compared to other notable plays in NFL history, such as The Catch or the Immaculate Reception.^[24]^[25] As such, it has become an important part of the histories of each franchise, as well as a key part of the rivalry between the two teams.^[23]^[26] In 2019, during the NFL's celebration of its 100th season, the NFL listed the 4th and 26 game as #69 on its list of the NFL's 100 greatest games.^[27]

References

^ ^a ^b "2003 Green Bay Packers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on May 15, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ ^a ^b ^c "2003 Philadelphia Eagles Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on November 1, 2023. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ Braun, Rick (December 31, 2003). "For Ahman Green, winning is what matters most". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Archived from the original on July 3, 2022. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ ^a ^b "Take Five". Green Bay Press-Gazette (clipping). January 11, 2004. p. 4. Archived from the original on June 13, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
^ Brown, Clifton (December 5, 2003). "The Eagles' Formula: Three Backs, No Losing". The New York Times. Archived from the original on January 26, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ "2003 NFL Opposition & Defensive Statistics". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on May 31, 2023. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ Demovsky, Rob; Henderson, Brady (January 9, 2020). "Seahawks vs. Packers: From a failed called shot to an improbable comeback". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on January 10, 2020. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ Swartz, Bryn (January 5, 2011). "Eagles vs. Packers Postseason History: A Championship and 4th & 26". BleacherReport.com. Archived from the original on February 6, 2013. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ ^a ^b "Divisional Round - Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles - January 11th, 2004". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on November 30, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2004.
^ Lea, Bud (December 26, 1960). "Eagles Win NFL Title". Milwaukee Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 13, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ "Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles Results". FootballDB.com. Archived from the original on May 20, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ ^a ^b ^c "Eagles 20-17 Packers (Jan 11, 2004) Play-by-Play". ESPN.com. January 12, 2004. Archived from the original on June 14, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ ^a ^b ^c Fitzpatrick, Frank (January 7, 2011). "Recalling Eagles' Fourth and 26". The Philadelphia Inquirer. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ ^a ^b ^c ^d "Fourth-and-26, other gaffes by Packers lead to demise vs. Eagles". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. January 12, 2024. Archived from the original on May 14, 2021. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ ^a ^b Frank, Reuben (January 5, 2011). "Donovan to FredEx: Fourth-and-26 revisited". CSNPhilly.com. Archived from the original on January 20, 2013. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ "Eagles 20-17 Packers (Jan 11, 2004) Final Score". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on June 13, 2024. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ Hoffman, Dale (January 12, 2024). "Fourth and won? Nope". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 18, 2013. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ ^a ^b Silver, Michael (January 19, 2004). "McNificent". SI.com. Archived from the original on October 23, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ ^a ^b Pasquarelli, Len (January 16, 2004). "Donatell dismissed after fourth-and-26 play". Archived from the original on March 29, 2022. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ Zinser, Lynn (January 19, 2004). "Panthers Send Eagles To 3rd Straight Loss In N.F.C. Title Game". The New York Times. Archived from the original on May 28, 2015. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ "A Markov Model of Football". Advanced Football Analytics. September 20, 2011. Archived from the original on November 1, 2021. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ Goldner, Keith (March 12, 2012). "A Markov Model of Football: Using Stochastic Processes to Model a Football Drive". Journal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports. 8. doi:10.1515/1559-0410.1400. S2CID 199666856. Archived from the original on November 1, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ ^a ^b "Eagles Put '4th And 26' On Scoreboard Before Packers Game". CBSNews.com. November 29, 2016. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ Anderson, Dave (January 16, 2004). "Fourth-and-26 Has No Meaning Yet for Eagles". The New York Times. Archived from the original on February 21, 2018. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ Reid, Ron (January 15, 2004). "'Fourth and 26' joins some famous names in big-play annals". The Philadelphia Inquirer. Archived from the original on March 3, 2016. Retrieved June 13, 2024.
^ Nickel, Lori (January 2, 2011). "Packers choose to forget 4th-and-26 past against Eagles". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Archived from the original on February 13, 2024. Retrieved June 14, 2024.
^ "NFL 100 Greatest Games". NFL.com. Archived from the original on April 22, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

External links

Packers vs. Eagles 2003 NFC Divisional Playoffs - "The 4th-and-26 Game" - NFL Full Game on YouTube

[03PACK-1] "2003 Green Bay Packers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on May 15, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[03EAG-2] "2003 Philadelphia Eagles Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on November 1, 2023. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[3] Braun, Rick (December 31, 2003). "For Ahman Green, winning is what matters most". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Archived from the original on July 3, 2022. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[TAKEFIVE-4] "Take Five". Green Bay Press-Gazette (clipping). January 11, 2004. p. 4. Archived from the original on June 13, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.

[5] Brown, Clifton (December 5, 2003). "The Eagles' Formula: Three Backs, No Losing". The New York Times. Archived from the original on January 26, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[6] "2003 NFL Opposition & Defensive Statistics". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on May 31, 2023. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[7] Demovsky, Rob; Henderson, Brady (January 9, 2020). "Seahawks vs. Packers: From a failed called shot to an improbable comeback". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on January 10, 2020. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[8] Swartz, Bryn (January 5, 2011). "Eagles vs. Packers Postseason History: A Championship and 4th & 26". BleacherReport.com. Archived from the original on February 6, 2013. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[PFR-9] "Divisional Round - Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles - January 11th, 2004". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Archived from the original on November 30, 2022. Retrieved June 14, 2004.

[10] Lea, Bud (December 26, 1960). "Eagles Win NFL Title". Milwaukee Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 13, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[11] "Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles Results". FootballDB.com. Archived from the original on May 20, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[PLAYBYPLAY-12] "Eagles 20-17 Packers (Jan 11, 2004) Play-by-Play". ESPN.com. January 12, 2004. Archived from the original on June 14, 2024. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[recalling-13] Fitzpatrick, Frank (January 7, 2011). "Recalling Eagles' Fourth and 26". The Philadelphia Inquirer. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[JSO-14] "Fourth-and-26, other gaffes by Packers lead to demise vs. Eagles". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. January 12, 2024. Archived from the original on May 14, 2021. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[FREDEX-15] Frank, Reuben (January 5, 2011). "Donovan to FredEx: Fourth-and-26 revisited". CSNPhilly.com. Archived from the original on January 20, 2013. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[16] "Eagles 20-17 Packers (Jan 11, 2004) Final Score". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on June 13, 2024. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[17] Hoffman, Dale (January 12, 2024). "Fourth and won? Nope". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Archived from the original on June 18, 2013. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[SI-18] Silver, Michael (January 19, 2004). "McNificent". SI.com. Archived from the original on October 23, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[DONATELL-19] Pasquarelli, Len (January 16, 2004). "Donatell dismissed after fourth-and-26 play". Archived from the original on March 29, 2022. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[20] Zinser, Lynn (January 19, 2004). "Panthers Send Eagles To 3rd Straight Loss In N.F.C. Title Game". The New York Times. Archived from the original on May 28, 2015. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[21] "A Markov Model of Football". Advanced Football Analytics. September 20, 2011. Archived from the original on November 1, 2021. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[22] Goldner, Keith (March 12, 2012). "A Markov Model of Football: Using Stochastic Processes to Model a Football Drive". Journal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports. 8. doi:10.1515/1559-0410.1400. S2CID 199666856. Archived from the original on November 1, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[BOARD-23] "Eagles Put '4th And 26' On Scoreboard Before Packers Game". CBSNews.com. November 29, 2016. Archived from the original on April 10, 2024. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[TIMES-24] Anderson, Dave (January 16, 2004). "Fourth-and-26 Has No Meaning Yet for Eagles". The New York Times. Archived from the original on February 21, 2018. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[25] Reid, Ron (January 15, 2004). "'Fourth and 26' joins some famous names in big-play annals". The Philadelphia Inquirer. Archived from the original on March 3, 2016. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

[26] Nickel, Lori (January 2, 2011). "Packers choose to forget 4th-and-26 past against Eagles". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Archived from the original on February 13, 2024. Retrieved June 14, 2024.

[27] "NFL 100 Greatest Games". NFL.com. Archived from the original on April 22, 2021. Retrieved June 13, 2024.

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@@ Line 31: / Line 31: @@
 | city            = [[Philadelphia|Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]], U.S.
 | referee         = [[Ed Hochuli]]
+| attendance      = 67,707
-| attendance      = 67,707<ref name="SI">{{cite web | url = https://vault.si.com/vault/2004/01/19/mcnificent-in-a-weekend-filled-with-nail-biting-finishes-donovan-mcnabb-rallied-philadelphia-to-an-improbable-win-over-green-bay | website = SI.com | title = McNificent | last = Silver | first = Michael | date = January 19, 2004 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = October 23, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211023122446/https://vault.si.com/vault/2004/01/19/mcnificent-in-a-weekend-filled-with-nail-biting-finishes-donovan-mcnabb-rallied-philadelphia-to-an-improbable-win-over-green-bay | url-status = live }}</ref>
+| odds            = Eagles by 5.5
-| odds            = Eagles by 5.5<ref name="TAKEFIVE">{{Cite news | url = https://www.newspapers.com/article/green-bay-press-gazette-take-five/149277225/ | title = Take Five | date = January 11, 2004 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | newspaper = [[Green Bay Press-Gazette]] | type = clipping | via = [[Newspapers.com]] | page = 4 }}</ref>
 | network         = [[NFL on Fox|Fox]]
 | announcers      = [[Joe Buck]], [[Troy Aikman]] and [[Cris Collinsworth]]
 | HOFers          = '''Packers:''' [[Brett Favre]]<br />'''Eagles:''' [[Brian Dawkins]]
 }}
-'''4th and 26'''  was a [[National Football League]] (NFL) game played on January 11, 2004, between the [[Green Bay Packers]] and [[Philadelphia Eagles]] during the [[2003–04 NFL playoffs|2003–04 playoffs]]. The Packers travelled to [[Lincoln Financial Field]] in [[Philadelphia|Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]], for a divisional playoff game after beating the [[Seattle Seahawks]] in a wild card game the week prior. After taking an early 14–0 lead, the Packers allowed the Eagles to tie the game in the fourth quarter, 14–14. After the Packers regained the lead on a late field goal, the Eagles got the ball with only a few minutes left to tie or take the lead. After a penalty and a sack pushed the Eagles back 16 yards, they faced a fourth down with 26 yards to go with just 1:12 left on the game clock. Eagles' quarterback [[Donovan McNabb]] completed a 28-yard pass to wide receiver [[Freddie Mitchell]] for a first down. The Eagles continued their drive with a tying field goal to send the game into overtime. After the Eagles intercepted Packers' quarterback [[Brett Favre]], kicker [[David Akers]] kicked a game-winning field goal to send the Eagles to the NFC Championship Game, which they would go on to lose 14–3 to the [[Carolina Panthers]].
+'''4th and 26'''  was a [[National Football League]] (NFL) game played on January 11, 2004, between the [[Green Bay Packers]] and [[Philadelphia Eagles]] during the [[2003–04 NFL playoffs|2003–04 playoffs]]. The Packers travelled to [[Lincoln Financial Field]] in [[Philadelphia|Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]], for a divisional playoff game after beating the [[Seattle Seahawks]] in a [[We want the ball and we're going to score!|wild card game the week prior]]. After taking an early 14–0 lead, the Packers allowed the Eagles to tie the game in the fourth quarter, 14–14. After the Packers regained the lead on a late field goal, the Eagles got the ball with only a few minutes left to tie or take the lead. After a penalty and a sack pushed the Eagles back 16 yards, they faced a fourth down with 26 yards to go with just 1:12 left on the game clock. Eagles' quarterback [[Donovan McNabb]] completed a 28-yard pass to wide receiver [[Freddie Mitchell]] for a first down. The Eagles continued their drive with a tying field goal to send the game into overtime. After the Eagles intercepted Packers' quarterback [[Brett Favre]], kicker [[David Akers]] kicked a game-winning field goal to send the Eagles to the NFC Championship Game, which they would go on to lose 14–3 to the [[Carolina Panthers]].
 {{TOC-limit|3}}
 ==Background==
 {{further|2003 Green Bay Packers season|2003 Philadelphia Eagles season}}
-The [[Green Bay Packers]] went 10–6 during the [[2003 NFL season]], enough to win the [[NFC North]] after ending the year on a 4-game winning streak. This included a 17–14 regular season loss to the [[Philadelphia Eagles]] in Week 10.<ref name="03PACK">{{Cite web | url = https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/gnb/2003.htm | title = 2003 Green Bay Packers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website = Pro-Football-Reference.com | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = May 15, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240515002807/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/gnb/2003.htm | url-status = live }}</ref> The Eagles won the [[NFC East]] after going 12–4, which included a 9-game winning streak in the middle of the season.<ref name="03EAG">{{Cite web | url = https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/phi/2003.htm | title = 2003 Philadelphia Eagles Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website = Pro-Football-Reference.com | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = November 1, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231101123927/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/phi/2003.htm | url-status = live }}</ref> This record was enough to secure the 1st seed in the [[2003–04 NFL playoffs]] and a first-round bye. The Packers saw success throughout the season behind the passing acumen of [[Brett Favre]], who threw for 32 touchdowns and over 3,300 yards, and the rushing success of [[Ahman Green]], who ran for 15 touchdowns and a team-record 1,883 yards.<ref name="03PACK"/><ref>{{Cite news | url = https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/206855251.html | newspaper = [[Milwaukee Journal Sentinel]] | access-date = June 13, 2024 | date = December 31, 2003 | title = For Ahman Green, winning is what matters most | last = Braun | first = Rick | archive-date = July 3, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220703034823/https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/206855251.html/ | url-status = live }}</ref> The Eagles success primarily came from quarterback [[Donovan McNabb]], who accumulated almost 3,600 yards combined passing and rushing.<ref name="TAKEFIVE"/><ref name="03EAG"/> The Eagles relied on a "running back-by-committee" approach with [[Brian Westbrook]], [[Correll Buckhalter]] and [[Duce Staley]] all rushing for over 450 yards for the season.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/05/sports/inside-the-nfl-the-eagles-formula-three-backs-no-losing.html | newspaper = [[The New York Times]] | access-date = June 13, 2024 | title = The Eagles' Formula: Three Backs, No Losing | last = Brown | first = Clifton | date = December 5, 2003 | url-access = subscription | archive-date = January 26, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210126101105/https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/05/sports/inside-the-nfl-the-eagles-formula-three-backs-no-losing.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="03EAG"/> Both teams employed defensive units ranked in the top 15 by scoring.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2003/opp.htm | title = 2003 NFL Opposition & Defensive Statistics | access-date = June 13, 2024 | website = Pro-Football-Reference.com | archive-date = May 31, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230531102619/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2003/opp.htm | url-status = live }}</ref>
+The [[Green Bay Packers]] went 10–6 during the [[2003 NFL season]], enough to win the [[NFC North]] after ending the year on a 4-game winning streak. This included a 17–14 regular season loss to the [[Philadelphia Eagles]] in Week 10.<ref name="03PACK">{{Cite web | url = https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/gnb/2003.htm | title = 2003 Green Bay Packers Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website = Pro-Football-Reference.com | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = May 15, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240515002807/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/gnb/2003.htm | url-status = live }}</ref> The Eagles won the [[NFC East]] after going 12–4, which included a 9-game winning streak in the middle of the season. This record was enough to secure the 1st seed in the [[2003–04 NFL playoffs]] and a first-round bye.<ref name="03EAG">{{Cite web | url = https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/phi/2003.htm | title = 2003 Philadelphia Eagles Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees | website = Pro-Football-Reference.com | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = November 1, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231101123927/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/phi/2003.htm | url-status = live }}</ref> The Packers saw success throughout the season behind the passing acumen of [[Brett Favre]], who threw for 32 touchdowns and over 3,300 yards, and the rushing success of [[Ahman Green]], who ran for 15 touchdowns and a team-record 1,883 yards.<ref name="03PACK"/><ref>{{Cite news | url = https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/206855251.html | newspaper = [[Milwaukee Journal Sentinel]] | access-date = June 13, 2024 | date = December 31, 2003 | title = For Ahman Green, winning is what matters most | last = Braun | first = Rick | archive-date = July 3, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220703034823/https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/206855251.html/ | url-status = live }}</ref> The Eagles success primarily came from quarterback [[Donovan McNabb]], who accumulated almost 3,600 yards combined passing and rushing.<ref name="TAKEFIVE"/><ref name="03EAG"/> The Eagles relied on a "running back-by-committee" approach with [[Brian Westbrook]], [[Correll Buckhalter]] and [[Duce Staley]] all rushing for over 450 yards for the season.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/05/sports/inside-the-nfl-the-eagles-formula-three-backs-no-losing.html | newspaper = [[The New York Times]] | access-date = June 13, 2024 | title = The Eagles' Formula: Three Backs, No Losing | last = Brown | first = Clifton | date = December 5, 2003 | url-access = subscription | archive-date = January 26, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210126101105/https://www.nytimes.com/2003/12/05/sports/inside-the-nfl-the-eagles-formula-three-backs-no-losing.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="03EAG"/> Both teams employed defensive units ranked in the top 15 by scoring.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2003/opp.htm | title = 2003 NFL Opposition & Defensive Statistics | access-date = June 13, 2024 | website = Pro-Football-Reference.com | archive-date = May 31, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230531102619/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2003/opp.htm | url-status = live }}</ref>
-The Packers hosted the [[Seattle Seahawks]] in the first round of the playoffs, winning 33–27 in overtime courtesy of an interception returned for a touchdown by former Eagle [[Al Harris (cornerback)|Al Harris]] (known as the "[[we want the ball and we're gonna score]]" game).<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28449702/seahawks-vs-packers-failed-called-shot-improbable-comeback | website = ESPN.com | title = Seahawks vs. Packers: From a failed called shot to an improbable comeback | date = January 9, 2020 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | last1 = Demovsky | first1 = Rob | last2 = Henderson | first2 = Brady | archive-date = January 10, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200110161326/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28449702/seahawks-vs-packers-failed-called-shot-improbable-comeback | url-status = live }}</ref> As the first seed in the playoffs, the Eagles secured home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.{{Citation needed|date=June 2024}} Thus, the divisional round playoff game was hosted by the Eagles at [[Lincoln Financial Field]] in [[Philadelphia|Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]], scheduled for the evening of Sunday, January 11, 2004.{{Citation needed|date=June 2024}} This would be the second postseason meeting between the Packers and Eagles; the previous meeting was back in the [[1960 NFL Championship Game]], which the Eagles won 17–13.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/290873981.html | newspaper = [[Milwaukee Journal Sentinel|Milwaukee Sentinel]] | access-date = June 13, 2024 | date = December 26, 1960 | title = Eagles Win NFL Title | last = Lea | first = Bud | author-link = Bud Lea }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.footballdb.com/teams/nfl/green-bay-packers/teamvsteam?opp=24 | website = FootballDB.com | title = Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles Results | access-date = June 13, 2024 }}</ref>
+The Packers hosted the [[Seattle Seahawks]] in the first round of the playoffs, winning 33–27 in overtime courtesy of an interception returned for a touchdown by former Eagle [[Al Harris (cornerback)|Al Harris]] (known as the [[We want the ball and we're going to score!]] game).<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28449702/seahawks-vs-packers-failed-called-shot-improbable-comeback | website = ESPN.com | title = Seahawks vs. Packers: From a failed called shot to an improbable comeback | date = January 9, 2020 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | last1 = Demovsky | first1 = Rob | last2 = Henderson | first2 = Brady | archive-date = January 10, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200110161326/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28449702/seahawks-vs-packers-failed-called-shot-improbable-comeback | url-status = live }}</ref> As the first seed in the playoffs, the Eagles secured home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://bleacherreport.com/articles/564107-eagles-vs-packers-postseason-history-a-championship-and-4th-26 | website = BleacherReport.com | title = Eagles vs. Packers Postseason History: A Championship and 4th & 26 | date = January 5, 2011 | access-date = June 14, 2024 | last = Swartz | first = Bryn | archive-date = February 6, 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130206040856/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/564107-eagles-vs-packers-postseason-history-a-championship-and-4th-26 | url-status = live }}</ref> Thus, the divisional round playoff game was hosted by the Eagles at [[Lincoln Financial Field]] in [[Philadelphia|Philadelphia, Pennsylvania]], scheduled for the evening of Sunday, January 11, 2004.<ref name="PFR"/> This would be the second postseason meeting between the Packers and Eagles; the previous meeting was back in the [[1960 NFL Championship Game]], which the Eagles won 17–13.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/290873981.html | newspaper = [[Milwaukee Journal Sentinel|Milwaukee Sentinel]] | access-date = June 13, 2024 | date = December 26, 1960 | title = Eagles Win NFL Title | last = Lea | first = Bud | author-link = Bud Lea | archive-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240613221505/https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/290873981.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.footballdb.com/teams/nfl/green-bay-packers/teamvsteam?opp=24 | website = FootballDB.com | title = Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles Results | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = May 20, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240520025012/https://www.footballdb.com/teams/nfl/green-bay-packers/teamvsteam?opp=24 | url-status = live }}</ref> The Eagles were 5.5 point favorites over the Packers.<ref name="TAKEFIVE">{{Cite news | url = https://www.newspapers.com/article/green-bay-press-gazette-take-five/149277225/ | title = Take Five | date = January 11, 2004 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | newspaper = [[Green Bay Press-Gazette]] | type = clipping | via = [[Newspapers.com]] | page = 4 | archive-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240613204145/https://www.newspapers.com/article/green-bay-press-gazette-take-five/149277225/ | url-status = live }}</ref>
 ==Game summary==
 [[File:Philly (45).JPG|thumb|right|[[Lincoln Financial Field]] in [[South Philadelphia]], the site of the game.|alt=Photo of an empty Lincoln Financial Field]]
 ===First half===
-The game began with the four consecutive punts, two by each team. Midway through the first quarter, Eagles' quarterback [[Donovan McNabb]] fumbled the ball on the Eagles' 40-yard line, which Packers' linebacker [[Nick Barnett]] recovered. Packers' quarterback [[Brett Favre]] threw a 40-yard touchdown pass on the first play to [[Robert Ferguson (American football)|Robert Ferguson]] to put the Packers on the score board with a 7–0 lead. [[James Thrash]] returned the ensuing kickoff 36 yards to the 44-yard line. McNabb rushed for 41 yards on the first play to get the ball to the Packers 15-yard line. After a short rush and two incomplete passes, Eagles' kicker [[David Akers]] missed a 30-yard field goal attempt. After the missed field goal, Favre led the Packers on an 8-play, 88 -yard drive, which included a 26-yard run by [[Ahman Green]]. Favre threw his second touchdown pass to Ferguson from the 17-yard line, giving the Packers a 14–0 lead with 1:16 left in the first quarter. Both teams traded punts, before McNabb led the Eagles on their first scoring drive, completing five consecutive passes for 77 yards, including a 45-yard pass to [[Todd Pinkston]]. On the last play, his 7-yard touchdown pass to [[Duce Staley]] cut the lead to 14–7. The Packers took the ensuing kickoff and drove 67 yards to the Eagles' 1-yard line, featuring a 33-yard run by Green. On fourth down, Green was tackled for no gain. The Packers turned the ball over on downs and the Eagles ran out the rest of the time in the first half of the game.<ref name="PLAYBYPLAY">{{Cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/nfl/playbyplay/_/gameId/240111021 | website = ESPN.com | title = Eagles 20-17 Packers (Jan 11, 2004) Play-by-Play | access-date = June 13, 2024 | date = January 12, 2004 }}</ref>
+The game began with the four consecutive punts, two by each team. Midway through the first quarter, Eagles' quarterback [[Donovan McNabb]] fumbled the ball on the Eagles' 40-yard line, which Packers' linebacker [[Nick Barnett]] recovered. Packers' quarterback [[Brett Favre]] threw a 40-yard touchdown pass on the first play to [[Robert Ferguson (American football)|Robert Ferguson]] to put the Packers on the scoreboard with a 7–0 lead. [[James Thrash]] returned the ensuing kickoff 36 yards to the 44-yard line. McNabb rushed for 41 yards on the first play to get the ball to the Packers 15-yard line. After a short rush and two incomplete passes, Eagles' kicker [[David Akers]] missed a 30-yard field goal attempt. After the missed field goal, Favre led the Packers on an 8-play, 88 -yard drive, which included a 26-yard run by [[Ahman Green]]. Favre threw his second touchdown pass to Ferguson from the 17-yard line, giving the Packers a 14–0 lead with 1:16 left in the first quarter. Both teams traded punts, before McNabb led the Eagles on their first scoring drive, completing five consecutive passes for 77 yards, including a 45-yard pass to [[Todd Pinkston]]. On the last play, his 7-yard touchdown pass to [[Duce Staley]] cut the lead to 14–7. The Packers took the ensuing kickoff and drove 67 yards to the Eagles' 1-yard line, featuring a 33-yard run by Green. On fourth down, Green was tackled for no gain. The Packers turned the ball over on downs and the Eagles ran out the rest of the time in the first half of the game.<ref name="PLAYBYPLAY">{{Cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/nfl/playbyplay/_/gameId/240111021 | website = ESPN.com | title = Eagles 20-17 Packers (Jan 11, 2004) Play-by-Play | access-date = June 13, 2024 | date = January 12, 2004 | archive-date = June 14, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240614160647/https://www.espn.com/nfl/playbyplay/_/gameId/240111021 | url-status = live }}</ref>
 ===Second half===
-The third quarter started with three short drives, each ending in a punt (two by the Packers and one by the Eagles). Late in the third quarter, the Eagles began an 8-play, 88-yard touchdown drive, despite two 10-yard penalties against them on the drive. McNabb was responsible for all of the yards on the drive, rushing for 37 yards and completing four passes for 72, including a 12-yard touchdown pass to Pinkston that tied the game at 14 on the first play of the fourth quarter. Each team punted once before the Packers began a 5-play, 48 yard drive that ended in a field. Starting at mid-field, Favre completed a 44-yard completion to [[Javon Walker]], but the Packers were unable to get into the end zone. [[Ryan Longwell]] kicked a 21-yard field goal to give the Packers a 17–14 lead. The ensuing Eagles drive started with a 22-yard run by Duce Staley, but on the next play, McNabb threw for an incomplete pass. On second down the Eagles were penalized 5 yards for a false start and then a sack pushed the Eagles back to their own 26-yard line, and on third down McNabb threw another incompletion. The Eagles, faced with a fourth down and 26 yards, needed to convert for a first down, with only 1:12 remaining and one timeout left.<ref name="PLAYBYPLAY"/>
+The third quarter started with three short drives, each ending in a punt (two by the Packers and one by the Eagles). Late in the third quarter, the Eagles began an 8-play, 88-yard touchdown drive, despite two 10-yard penalties against them on the drive. McNabb was responsible for all of the yards on the drive, rushing for 37 yards and completing four passes for 72, including a 12-yard touchdown pass to Pinkston that tied the game at 14 on the first play of the fourth quarter. Each team punted once before the Packers began a 5-play, 48 yard drive that ended in a field goal. Starting at mid-field, Favre completed a 44-yard completion to [[Javon Walker]], but the Packers were unable to get into the end zone. [[Ryan Longwell]] kicked a 21-yard field goal to give the Packers a 17–14 lead. The ensuing Eagles drive started with a 22-yard run by Duce Staley, but on the next play, McNabb threw for an incomplete pass. On second down the Eagles were penalized 5 yards for a false start and then a sack pushed the Eagles back to their own 26-yard line, and on third down McNabb threw another incompletion. The Eagles, faced with a fourth down and 26 yards, needed to convert for a first down, with only 1:12 remaining and one timeout left.<ref name="PLAYBYPLAY"/>
 ====4th and 26====
-The fourth down play (74 Double Go) called for a slant route to Mitchell.<ref name="recalling">{{cite news|last=Fitzpatrick|first=Frank|title=Recalling Eagles' Fourth and 26|url=http://articles.philly.com/2011-01-07/sports/27015067_1_eagles-fans-desean-jackson-quintin-mikell|access-date=October 18, 2012|newspaper=[[The Philadelphia Inquirer]]|date=January 7, 2011|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304090155/http://articles.philly.com/2011-01-07/sports/27015067_1_eagles-fans-desean-jackson-quintin-mikell|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Frank|first=Reuben|title=Donovan to FredEx: Fourth-and-26 revisited|url=http://www.csnphilly.com/01/04/11/Donovan-to-FredEx-Fourth-and-26-revisite/landing_eagles.html?blockID=384995|access-date=October 18, 2012|newspaper=Comcast Sports Net Philadelphia|date=January 5, 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130120031726/http://www.csnphilly.com/01/04/11/Donovan-to-FredEx-Fourth-and-26-revisite/landing_eagles.html?blockID=384995|archive-date=2013-01-20|url-status=dead}}</ref> McNabb threw a deep pass to Mitchel and the Packers' [[Cover 2]] defensive coverage broke down, allowing the reception. Packers' linebacker [[Nick Barnett]], who was responsible for shallow coverage of Mitchell, bit on the tight end. [[Darren Sharper]], who was partially responsible for deep coverage of Mitchell, played past the first down marker, positioning himself for an interception rather than preventing any play in front of the marker. The only player that was close to making a play, Packers' safety [[Bhawoh Jue]], was playing the sidelines and was too late to prevent the catch or first down. Mitchell completed the catch and was brought down at the Packers 46, giving the Eagles a first down. Broadcaster [[Joe Buck]] criticized the spot of the ball, as it appeared from the broadcast that Mitchell barely crossed the line to gain, but the officials gave him some extra yards.{{Citation needed|date=June 2024}}
+The fourth down play (74 Double Go) called for a slant route to [[Freddie Mitchell]].<ref name="recalling">{{cite news | last = Fitzpatrick | first = Frank | title = Recalling Eagles' Fourth and 26 | url = http://articles.philly.com/2011-01-07/sports/27015067_1_eagles-fans-desean-jackson-quintin-mikell | access-date = June 13, 2024 | newspaper = [[The Philadelphia Inquirer]] | date = January 7, 2011 | archive-date = March 4, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304090155/http://articles.philly.com/2011-01-07/sports/27015067_1_eagles-fans-desean-jackson-quintin-mikell | url-status = dead }}</ref> McNabb threw a deep pass to Mitchell and the Packers' [[Cover 2]] defensive coverage broke down, allowing the reception.<ref name="JSO"/> [[Darren Sharper]] played past the first down marker, positioning himself for an interception rather than preventing any play in front of the line to gain. The only player that was close to making a play, Packers' safety [[Bhawoh Jue]], was playing the sidelines and was too late to prevent the catch or first down.<ref name="recalling"/> Mitchell completed the catch and was brought down at the Packers 46, giving the Eagles a first down.<ref name="FREDEX">{{cite web | last = Frank | first = Reuben | title = Donovan to FredEx: Fourth-and-26 revisited | url = http://www.csnphilly.com/01/04/11/Donovan-to-FredEx-Fourth-and-26-revisite/landing_eagles.html?blockID=384995 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | website = CSNPhilly.com | date = January 5, 2011 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20130120031726/http://www.csnphilly.com/01/04/11/Donovan-to-FredEx-Fourth-and-26-revisite/landing_eagles.html?blockID=384995 | archive-date= January 20, 2013 | url-status = dead}}</ref>
 ====End of the game====
-The Eagles gained another 27 yards, almost running the game clock out, before Akers made a game-tying, 37-yard field goal, which led to the game going into overtime. The Eagles got the ball first, but punted after going three-and-out. On the first play of the Packers' drive, Eagles' safety [[Brian Dawkins]] intercepted a Favre pass and returned it 35 yards. The Eagles gained 21 yards to get into field goal range. Akers kicked a 31-yard, game-winning field goal attempt, giving the Eagles a 20–17 victory.<ref name="PLAYBYPLAY"/><ref name="NYT 2004-01-16">{{cite news|last=Anderson|first=Dave|title=Fourth-and-26 Has No Meaning Yet for Eagles|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/16/sports/sports-of-the-times-fourth-and-26-has-no-meaning-yet-for-eagles.html?pagewanted=all|access-date=October 18, 2012|newspaper=[[The New York Times]]|date=January 16, 2004|archive-date=February 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180221222452/http://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/16/sports/sports-of-the-times-fourth-and-26-has-no-meaning-yet-for-eagles.html?pagewanted=all|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Reid|first=Ron|title='Fourth and 26' joins some famous names in big-play annals|url=http://articles.philly.com/2004-01-15/sports/25366434_1_eagles-cornerback-freddie-mitchell-steelers-raiders|access-date=October 18, 2012|newspaper=[[The Philadelphia Inquirer]]|date=January 15, 2004|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303221323/http://articles.philly.com/2004-01-15/sports/25366434_1_eagles-cornerback-freddie-mitchell-steelers-raiders|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Brookover|first=Bob|title=Fourth and 26 Forever: The Eagles will never forget Freddie Mitchell's catch. They just wish it led to something bigger.|url=http://articles.philly.com/2004-12-02/sports/25386671_1_freddie-mitchell-eagles-lincoln-financial-field/2|access-date=October 18, 2012|newspaper=[[The Philadelphia Inquirer]]|date=December 2, 2004|archive-date=January 31, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131074123/http://articles.philly.com/2004-12-02/sports/25386671_1_freddie-mitchell-eagles-lincoln-financial-field/2|url-status=live}}</ref>
+The Eagles gained another 27 yards, almost running the clock out, before Akers made a game-tying, 37-yard field goal, which led to the game going into overtime. The Eagles got the ball first, but punted after going three-and-out. On the first play of the Packers' drive, Eagles' safety [[Brian Dawkins]] intercepted a Favre pass and returned it 35 yards. The Eagles gained 21 yards to get into field goal range. Akers kicked a 31-yard, game-winning field goal attempt, giving the Eagles a 20–17 victory.<ref name="PLAYBYPLAY"/>
 ===Box score===
@@ Line 67: / Line 68: @@
  |title=Divisional Playoffs: Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles&nbsp;– Game summary
  |date=Sunday, January 11, 2004
- |time=
+ |time=4:46pm
  |road=Packers
  |R1=14|R2=0|R3=0|R4=3|R5=0
@@ Line 78: / Line 79: @@
  |TV=[[NFL on Fox|Fox]]
  |TVAnnouncers=[[Joe Buck]], [[Troy Aikman]] and [[Cris Collinsworth]]
+ |reference= Sources: ESPN.com<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/240111021/packers-eagles | website = ESPN.com | title = Eagles 20-17 Packers (Jan 11, 2004) Final Score | access-date = June 14, 2024 | archive-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240613190844/https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/240111021/packers-eagles | url-status = live }}</ref> and Pro-Football-Reference.com<ref name="PFR">{{Cite web | url = https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200401110phi.htm | title = Divisional Round - Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles - January 11th, 2004 | access-date = June 14, 2004 | website = Pro-Football-Reference.com | archive-date = November 30, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221130111354/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200401110phi.htm | url-status = live }}</ref>
- |reference=
  |scoring=
 '''First quarter'''
@@ Line 134: / Line 135: @@
 }}
-==Aftermath==
+===Analysis===
+The Eagles became just the second team in NFL history up to that point to win a playoff game after trailing by 14 points or more after the first quarter.<ref name="FREDEX"/> The ''[[Milwaukee Journal Sentinel]]'' identified two series of events that led to the Eagles victory. First, in the second quarter the Packers were on the two-yard, close to scoring. [[Najeh Davenport]] was stopped inches short of the goal line, and then on fourth down, [[Ahman Green]] was again stopped short after [[Mark Tauscher]] was unable to complete his block, leading to a [[turnover on downs]].<ref name="JSO">{{Cite news | url = https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/208253881.html | newspaper = [[Milwaukee Journal Sentinel]] | date = January 12, 2024 | title = Fourth-and-26, other gaffes by Packers lead to demise vs. Eagles | access-date = June 14, 2024 | archive-date = May 14, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210514144420/https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/208253881.html/ | url-status = live }}</ref> A touchdown or even a field goal would have likely changed the dynamic of the game. The second key moment came in the fourth quarter, when the Packers were at mid-field with a fourth down and less than a yard to go. Even though the Eagles' defense seemed exhausted, the Packers decided to punt the ball instead of go for the first down, which likely would have ended the game.<ref name="JSO"/><ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/208076221.html/ | title = Fourth and won? Nope | newspaper = [[Milwaukee Journal Sentinel]] | last = Hoffman | first = Dale | date = January 12, 2024 | access-date = June 14, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130618051621/https://www.jsonline.com/sports/packers/208076221.html/ | archive-date = June 18, 2013 | url-status = dead }}</ref> McNabb was recognized for his ability to extend plays, with ''[[Sports Illustrated]]'' commenting that he "spent much of the second half turning busted plays into big gainers", while also noting that Favre's only real mistake came at the worst time (the interception in overtime).<ref name="SI">{{cite web | url = https://vault.si.com/vault/2004/01/19/mcnificent-in-a-weekend-filled-with-nail-biting-finishes-donovan-mcnabb-rallied-philadelphia-to-an-improbable-win-over-green-bay | website = SI.com | title = McNificent | last = Silver | first = Michael | date = January 19, 2004 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = October 23, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211023122446/https://vault.si.com/vault/2004/01/19/mcnificent-in-a-weekend-filled-with-nail-biting-finishes-donovan-mcnabb-rallied-philadelphia-to-an-improbable-win-over-green-bay | url-status = live }}</ref> Lastly, the Packers' defense was criticized for its strategy and execution on the fourth and 26 play.<ref name="DONATELL"/><ref name="JSO"/> Even though the Packers had kept McNabb under constant pressure during the game, they chose to only rush four players on the fourth down play and go into a soft zone coverage.<ref name="SI"/> [[Darren Sharper]] appeared to position himself for an interception instead of trying to stop Mitchell from gaining the first down, while other Packers players in the secondary gave the Eagles too much space and time.<ref name="recalling"/>
-Packers defensive coordinator [[Ed Donatell]] was fired on January 16, 2004, five days after the game.<ref>{{Cite web|url= https://www.espn.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=1710276|title= Donatell dismissed after fourth-and-26 play|date= January 16, 2004|access-date= December 19, 2020|archive-date= March 29, 2022|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220329165442/https://www.espn.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=1710276|url-status= live}}</ref> The Eagles' win advanced them to the NFC Championship Game, which they lost to the [[2003 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers]], 14–3, ending their season.
-The Packers and Eagles met during the {{nfly|2004}} regular season game in Philadelphia, in which the Packers had won six straight games and the Eagles started the season 11–1.  The Packers hoped to gain revenge from their heartbreaking playoff loss, but the Eagles dominated this game, winning 47–17 after jumping out to a 35–0 lead. McNabb recorded five touchdowns and a franchise record 464 passing yards in the game. Both teams won their respective divisions in 2004 and returned to the playoffs.  The Packers lost in the Wild Card round to the [[2004 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], while the Eagles advanced to [[Super Bowl XXXIX]], their first Super Bowl appearance in 24 years, but lost to the [[2004 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]].
+==Legacy==
-In 2011 and 2012, the 4th and 26 play was noted in respective articles published in [[Advanced Football Analytics]] and the ''Journal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports''. Both articles discussed the author's use of a [[Markov chain]] to estimate the probability of a series of football events. As the author wrote, "What are the odds that a drive containing a 4th-and-26 from the 25 would end with a successful field goal? According to the Markov model, a whopping 1 out of 175."<ref>{{Cite web |url= http://www.advancedfootballanalytics.com/2011/09/markov-model-of-football.html |title= A Markov Model of Football |date= September 20, 2011 |website= Advanced Football Analytics |access-date= November 1, 2021 |archive-date= November 1, 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20211101131707/http://www.advancedfootballanalytics.com/2011/09/markov-model-of-football.html |url-status= live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |url= https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/1559-0410.1400/html |title= A Markov Model of Football: Using Stochastic Processes to Model a Football Drive |date= March 12, 2012 |journal= Journal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports |doi= 10.1515/1559-0410.1400 |access-date= November 1, 2021 |last1= Goldner |first1= Keith |volume= 8 |s2cid= 199666856 |archive-date= November 1, 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20211101131706/https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/1559-0410.1400/html |url-status= live }}</ref>
+Less than a week after the game, Packers defensive coordinator [[Ed Donatell]] was fired, with the failure on 4th and 26 noted as the key reason.<ref name="DONATELL">{{Cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=1710276 | title = Donatell dismissed after fourth-and-26 play | last = Pasquarelli | first = Len | date = January 16, 2004 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = March 29, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220329165442/https://www.espn.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=1710276 | url-status = live}}</ref> The Eagles' win advanced them to the [[2003–04 NFL playoffs#NFC: Carolina Panthers 14, Philadelphia Eagles 3|NFC Championship Game]], which they lost to the [[Carolina Panthers]], 14–3, ending their season.<ref>{{Cite news | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/19/sports/pro-football-panthers-send-eagles-to-3rd-straight-loss-in-nfc-title-game.html | newspaper = [[The New York Times]] | title = Panthers Send Eagles To 3rd Straight Loss In N.F.C. Title Game | last = Zinser | first = Lynn | date = January 19, 2004 | access-date = June 14, 2024 | url-access = subscription | archive-date = May 28, 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150528044143/http://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/19/sports/pro-football-panthers-send-eagles-to-3rd-straight-loss-in-nfc-title-game.html | url-status = live }}</ref>
+In 2011 and 2012, the 4th and 26 play was noted in respective articles published in [[Advanced Football Analytics]] and the ''Journal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports''. Both articles discussed the author's use of a [[Markov chain]] to estimate the probability of a series of football events. As the author wrote, "What are the odds that a drive containing a 4th-and-26 from the 25 would end with a successful field goal? According to the Markov model, a whopping 1 out of 175".<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.advancedfootballanalytics.com/2011/09/markov-model-of-football.html | title = A Markov Model of Football | date = September 20, 2011 | website = Advanced Football Analytics | access-date = June 14, 2024 | archive-date = November 1, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211101131707/http://www.advancedfootballanalytics.com/2011/09/markov-model-of-football.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal | url = https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/1559-0410.1400/html | title = A Markov Model of Football: Using Stochastic Processes to Model a Football Drive | date = March 12, 2012 | journal = Journal of Quantitative Analysis in Sports | doi = 10.1515/1559-0410.1400 | access-date = June 13, 2024 | last = Goldner | first = Keith | volume = 8 | s2cid = 199666856 | archive-date = November 1, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211101131706/https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/1559-0410.1400/html | url-status = live }}</ref> Prior to a {{nfly|2016}} meeting in Philadelphia, the Eagles' scoreboard operator posted "4th and 26" as the down and distance to remind the Packers and their fans of that play. However, the Packers went on to win this game, 27–13.<ref name="BOARD">{{Cite web | url = https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/eagles-4th-and-26-packers-game/ | website = CBSNews.com | title = Eagles Put '4th And 26' On Scoreboard Before Packers Game | date = November 29, 2016 | access-date = June 14, 2024 | archive-date = April 10, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240410150931/https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/eagles-4th-and-26-packers-game/ | url-status = live }}</ref>
-Prior to a {{nfly|2016}} meeting in Philadelphia, the Eagles' scoreboard operator posted "4th and 26" as the down and distance to remind the Packers and their fans of that play.<ref>[https://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/eagles-troll-packers-with-4th-amp-26-on-scoreboard-photo-112816?nav=false Eagles troll Packers with 4th & 26 on scoreboard (Photo)]</ref>  However, the Packers went on to win this game, 27–13.
+th and 26 was quickly compared to other notable plays in NFL history, such as [[The Catch (American football)|The Catch]] or the [[Immaculate Reception]].<ref name="TIMES">{{cite news | last = Anderson | first = Dave | title = Fourth-and-26 Has No Meaning Yet for Eagles | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/16/sports/sports-of-the-times-fourth-and-26-has-no-meaning-yet-for-eagles.html?pagewanted=all | access-date = June 14, 2024 | newspaper = [[The New York Times]] | date = January 16, 2004 | archive-date = February 21, 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180221222452/http://www.nytimes.com/2004/01/16/sports/sports-of-the-times-fourth-and-26-has-no-meaning-yet-for-eagles.html?pagewanted=all | url-status = live | url-access = subscription }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | last = Reid | first = Ron | title = 'Fourth and 26' joins some famous names in big-play annals | url = http://articles.philly.com/2004-01-15/sports/25366434_1_eagles-cornerback-freddie-mitchell-steelers-raiders | access-date = June 13, 2024 | newspaper = [[The Philadelphia Inquirer]] | date = January 15, 2004 | archive-date = March 3, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303221323/http://articles.philly.com/2004-01-15/sports/25366434_1_eagles-cornerback-freddie-mitchell-steelers-raiders | url-status = dead }}</ref> As such, it has become an important part of the histories of each franchise, as well as a key part of the rivalry between the two teams.<ref name="BOARD"/><ref>{{Cite news | url = https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/112787924.html/ | newspaper = [[Milwaukee Journal Sentinel]] | title = Packers choose to forget 4th-and-26 past against Eagles | last = Nickel | first = Lori | date = January 2, 2011 | access-date = June 14, 2024 | archive-date = February 13, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240213195653/https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/packers/112787924.html/ | url-status = live }}</ref> In 2019, during the NFL's celebration of its 100th season, the NFL listed the 4th and 26 game as #69 on its list of the NFL's 100 greatest games.<ref>{{Cite web | url = https://www.nfl.com/100/originals/100-greatest/games-69 | title = NFL 100 Greatest Games | website = NFL.com | access-date = June 13, 2024 | archive-date = April 22, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210422040616/https://www.nfl.com/100/originals/100-greatest/games-69 | url-status = live }}</ref>
-In 2019, during the NFL's celebration of its 100th season, the NFL listed the "4th and 26" game as #69 on its list of the NFL's 100 greatest games.<ref>{{Cite web |url= https://www.nfl.com/100/originals/100-greatest/games-69 |title= NFL 100 Greatest Games |website= NFL.com |access-date= November 1, 2021 |archive-date= April 22, 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210422040616/https://www.nfl.com/100/originals/100-greatest/games-69 |url-status= live }}</ref>
 ==References==
@@ Line 160: / Line 160: @@
 [[Category:Green Bay Packers postseason]]
 [[Category:Philadelphia Eagles postseason]]
-[[Category:American football incidents]]
+[[Category:National Football League plays]]
 [[Category:January 2004 sports events in the United States]]
 [[Category:2004 in sports in Pennsylvania]]
 [[Category:2004 in Philadelphia]]
-[[Category:Culture of Philadelphia]]

v t e Philadelphia Eagles
Founded in 1933 Based and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Franchise	Franchise History Seasons Coaches Quarterbacks Players Draft
Stadiums	Baker Bowl Philadelphia Municipal Stadium Connie Mack Stadium Franklin Field Veterans Stadium Lincoln Financial Field
Culture	"Fly, Eagles Fly" Swoop Curse of Billy Penn Invincible Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame Matt Guokas Sr. Dan Baker Cheerleaders Dom DiSandro Silver Linings Playbook The Garbage Picking Field Goal Kicking Philadelphia Phenomenon Pattison station South Philadelphia Sports Complex Boy Meets World It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia "No one likes us, we don't care" A Philly Special Christmas A Philly Special Christmas Special
Lore	Frankford Yellow Jackets Pennsylvania Keystoners "Pennsylvania Polka" Steagles "Happy Hundred" Chuck Bednarik's hit on Frank Gifford Santa Claus incident Miracle at the Meadowlands 46 defense Fog Bowl Bounty Bowl series Body Bag Game Pickle Juice Game 4th and 26 Miracle at the New Meadowlands Philly Special Double Doink
Rivalries	Atlanta Falcons Dallas Cowboys New York Giants Pittsburgh Steelers Washington Commanders
Division championships (15)	1947 1948 1949 1980 1988 2001 2002 2003 2004 2006 2010 2013 2017 2019 2022
Conference championships (5)	1960 1980 2004 2017 2022
League championships (4)	1948 1949 1960 2017 (LII)
Retired numbers	5 15 20 40 44 60 70 92 99
Media	Broadcasters WIP-FM Merrill Reese Mike Quick Howard Eskin
Current league affiliations	League: National Football League Conference: National Football Conference Division: East Division