NFC Championship Game vs Philadelphia Eagles (2004)
Eagles soar past Falcons, 27–10, to reach Super Bowl XXXIX.
The 2004 Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC Championship Game, earning a trip to Super Bowl XXXIX.
- event_name
- NFC Championship Game
- date
- January 18, 2004
- location
- Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- opponent
- Philadelphia Eagles
- final_score
- Eagles 27, Falcons 20
- season
- 2003 NFL Season
- key_outcome
- Falcons' return to the Super Bowl denied
Lore & Background
The Eagles soared past the Atlanta Falcons in the playoffs, winning 27–10.
In Their Own Story
The Georgia Dome hummed with a deafening roar as Michael Vick scanned the field, the cold January air outside forgotten by the packed house. At halftime, the Falcons led by double digits, the dream of Super Bowl XXXVIII feeling tangible enough to touch. But as the fourth quarter wore on, the mood shifted from euphoria to tension. A fumble here, a missed tackle there, and suddenly the Eagles were surging. In those final agonizing minutes, the silence that fell over the crowd was heavier than any cheer, marking the moment a historic season evaporated in an instant.
Reader's Guide
The game was played on January 23, 2005. The Falcons trailed 14–10 at the end of the third quarter and were outscored 13–0 in the fourth quarter. Michael Vick rushed for 26 yards.
Did You Know?
- The Eagles entered the game as back-to-back-to-back NFC runner ups.
- The Eagles had a 13–3 record, the best in the Andy Reid era.
- The Eagles faced the Falcons, Vikings, and Patriots in the 2017 playoffs as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who played in the 2004 NFC Championship Game?
The Atlanta Falcons faced the Philadelphia Eagles on January 18, 2004, at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles, holding the number one seed in the conference, ultimately defeated the Falcons with a final score of 27-20.
What was the outcome of this game?
Despite a strong offensive showing early on, the Falcons suffered a stunning collapse that allowed Philadelphia to secure a 27-20 victory. This loss ended Atlanta's hopes of returning to the Super Bowl for the 2003 season.
Why is this match considered iconic in franchise history?
This game stands as a defining moment due to the heartbreaking nature of the defeat on the road against a gritty defense. It transformed what seemed like a realistic Super Bowl dream into an unforgettable nightmare for Falcons fans.
Where and when did this contest take place?
The matchup occurred on January 18, 2004, in front of a raucous home crowd at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The atmosphere was electric as the Eagles hosted the visiting Atlanta team for the conference title.
How does the story of this game end?
The narrative concludes with the Falcons' high-powered offense failing to close out the lead against Philadelphia's resilient defense. The final whistle confirmed a 27-20 loss, denying Atlanta their chance at the championship.
More in Iconic Matches & Games
Elsewhere in the Atlanta Falcons universe
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