Cowboys RB Barber game-time decision

Dec 27, 2008 - 12:54 AM IRVING, Texas (Ticker) -- Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber is a game-time decision for this week's must-win game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Barber has not started the past two games due to a dislocated right pinky toe. He has been ineffective in limited playing time, gaining just two yards on 10 carries the last two weeks.

The bruising tailback suffered the injury on Thanksgiving Day and hasn't been the same since.

Barber, who has run for 872 yards and seven touchdowns, was limited in practice all week and is officially listed as questionable.

Head coach Wade Phillips said Barber is "still a game-time decision like he's been the last few weeks."

Rookie Tashard Choice will likely shoulder most of the load against Philadelphia (8-6-1).

A fourth-round pick in April's draft, Choice has done a terrific job filling in for Barber the past three games.

The 5-10, 215-pounder has averaged over 141 all-purpose yards in that span against three of the toughest defenses in the NFL - Pittsburgh, the New York Giants and Baltimore.

In addition, Pro Bowl tight end Jason Witten (ankle) has been limited in practice all week as well but is expected to play. Witten leads the team with 74 catches.

"I think he'll play, but to what extent we'll see," Phillips said.

Dallas (9-6) needs to win Sunday to clinch a wild card berth.