TEXAS-SIZED TRUE BLUES: Dallas Cowboys fans remain loyal despite results | Fan Poll

ARLINGTON — Dallas Cowboys fans faced Sunday night’s game against Philadelphia with excitement — but also some reservations.

With many players out hurt, the team had a high hurdle to overcome the Eagles to win the NFC East title and a pass to the playoffs.

Ron Barnes, 55, of Denton said the 8-7 record going into Sunday’s game had left him feeling lousy.

“I mean it’s just by the grace of God that we’re in a position where we might win the division,” Barnes said. “We’re lucky to be in the game.”

But he said he’ll always be there for his team.

“I mean they’re our team,” Barnes said. “I was born and raised in Texas. … Through thick and thin, I guess, and I hate the Eagles anyway.”

Eric Campos, 37, of Killeen said he came to Sunday’s game, though the season had left him frustrated, especially because of all the injuries.

The thing that keeps Campos going? Hope.

“We’re still Cowboys fans,” he said.

Elsa Rodriguez, 61, of Corpus Christi was primed to enjoy the game, regardless of the outcome, because it was her first time seeing the Cowboys in person.

But she conceded the team’s performance this season had taken a toll on her.

“The Cowboys have been nerve-racking. … So many emotions,” Rodriguez said.

Through it all, though, she has remained loyal.

“I wish they would just win them all easily, but that doesn’t happen. … They’ll still be my team,” Rodriguez said. “My whole family is Cowboys fans.”

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