The Daily Philadelphian

Michael Vick is expected to play vs. Cowboys on Sunday.

As the Eagles prepare to battle the rival Cowboys for a first round bye and NFC East championship with center Jamaal Jackson, two guys who may help are on their way back — Michael Vick and Quintin Demps.

Vick, who missed last week with a quad injury suffered against the Niners, says he expects to have a key role.

While he has not displayed the speed that made him a household name, Vick has given the Birds a weapon who can pick up a first down on third-and-1. That’s an area the Eagles have struggled in the last two years. While Vick has rushed for two TDs and thrown for another score in two of his last three games, that aspect of his game is not as vital as is his ability to keep the chains moving in short yardage.

In addition, this will be the first game with him, Jackson and Westbrook on the field at the same time since October. That just gives the Cowpokes one more weapon to defend.

While Vick will help the offense, Demps will help special teams if he can return kicks. Your DailyPhiladelphian loves Macho Harris, but he was a nightmare returning kicks last week. If nothing else, Demps will Reno Mahe the ball on kickoffs.