ARLINGTON, Texas. — Cowboys owner Jerry Jones gave several votes of confidence to coach Wade Phillips after Dallas defeated Philadelphia 24-0 on Sunday to clinch the NFC East title. However, Jones has not picked up the option for the fourth year on Phillips’ contract, suggesting the coach has to prove something in the playoffs to retain his job.

Phillips’ three-year deal expires at the end of this season and Jones said he thinks he is getting the most out of Phillips during his “lame-duck” status. Jones said the paperwork is in place for the team to exercise Phillips’ option but he declined to say what the motivation would be to finalize anything.

“I really don’t know how you can sit here and make a change with the winningest percentage coach that we’ve ever had in the history of the Cowboys,” Jones said. “I’m being a little Wade Phillips over here, but the facts are that it’s always been about our uptick. It’s always been about our edge and we know that ultimately there’s a swoon if you miss out at a game in the playoffs and go home. At this particular time, he’s looking good.”

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