NFL: Ravens hold off Cowboys

IRVING, Texas - Baltimore scored fourth-quarter touchdowns on two long runs by Willis McGahee and Le'Ron McClain to turn back the Dallas Cowboys, 33-24, last night.

McGahee broke loose for a 77-yard score 18 seconds after a Dallas touchdown, and McClain bolted 82 yards to put it out of reach, again just 18 seconds after a Dallas touchdown.

The Ravens led by 16-7 after three periods, but matched Dallas point for point in a wild fourth quarter in which each team scored two touchdowns and a field goal.

Dallas' loss clinched a playoff berth for the Carolina Panthers.

It was the finale for Texas Stadium, which hosted 313 games and will be replaced by a new facility next season.

Amid the pomp and circumstance of the finale at the landmark stadium, the game itself had plenty of importance for a pair of 9-5 teams trying to improve their precarious playoff positions.

Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco was 17 of 25 for 149 yards and one touchdown.

Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo was 24 of 45 for 252 yards, two TDs and two interceptions. He passed for 180 yards and both TDs in the final quarter.

Matt Stover kicked four field goals for Baltimore.

Ravens wide receiver Derrick Mason and right tackle Willie Anderson left in the first half of the game with injuries, but both were back in the game after halftime.