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NFL: Philadelphia 26, Minnesota 14

Philadelphia Eagles kicker David Akers (2) is hugged by holder Sav Rocca (6) after hitting his 4th field goal of the game against the Minnesota Vikings in their NFC Wild Card game at the Metrodome in Minneapolis on January 4, 2009. The Eagles defeated the Vikings 26-14. (UPI Photo/Mark Cowan)
1 of 18 | Philadelphia Eagles kicker David Akers (2) is hugged by holder Sav Rocca (6) after hitting his 4th field goal of the game against the Minnesota Vikings in their NFC Wild Card game at the Metrodome in Minneapolis on January 4, 2009. The Eagles defeated the Vikings 26-14. (UPI Photo/Mark Cowan) | License Photo

MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 4 (UPI) -- Brian Westbrook's 71-yard touchdown reception broke up a close game Sunday and helped Philadelphia notch a 26-14 NFC wild-card win over Minnesota.

The versatile running back had been held in check before his pivotal touchdown with 6:37 remaining in the contest gave the Eagles some breathing room at 23-14.

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Westbrook finished with 121 all-purpose yards (83 receiving, 38 rushing).

Donovan McNabb, who rose to 5-0 lifetime against the Vikings, completed 23-of-34 passes for 300 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Asante Samuel scored on a 43-yard, second-quarter interception return and David Akers kicked four field goals for the Eagles, who face the defending Super Bowl champion New York Giants in the NFC divisional round next Sunday.

Minnesota's Adrian Peterson scored twice and rushed for 83 yards on 20 carries.

Tarvaris Jackson finished 15-of-35 passing for 164 yards, no touchdowns and one interception, and Bernard Berrian caught five passes for 36 yards for the NFC North champion Vikings, who finished with a 10-7 record.

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