Cowboys likely to take it easy in Week 17 with top seed already clinched

Glenn had two preseason knee operations, but has been practicing for several weeks. After nearly being ready to play last weekend against Carolina, Glenn will get to show what he can do against the Redskins.

"It won't be a full game, but I'd like to get him playing, get him back in the rhythm of it, catch some passes," Phillips said. "If he wants to start, he can start."

Getting in synch with Glenn might be the best reason to let Romo play.

Coaches might also want to see how Romo can do with a game plan that doesn't feature Owens. The Cowboys moved the ball much less effectively after T.O. went out against the Panthers, mainly because they were being defended differently. It's also worth noting that while Romo has thrown for a club-record 36 touchdowns, he has only three the last three games.

"I think he is all right," Phillips said.

Cornerback Terence Newman is a candidate to sit out after adding to the list of injuries he's battled through all season. Center Andre Gurode missed the last game with a knee problem, so he's another who might not be used.

One last clue to the playing-time puzzle is that Phillips wants to help players hit milestones. That means he'd like Jason Witten to get the six catches he needs to become only the second tight end in NFL history to hit 100, or to get nine and set the single-season record at the position; and he'd like Marion Barber to get the 19 yards he needs to hit 1,000.

Of course, those objectives came with a disclaimer: "As long as that works in with us being able to win."