• Mike Forman •
• Originally published January 19, 2009 at 1:01 a.m., updated January 19, 2009 at 1:01 a.m.

Jerheme Urban thought about trying to make a big play, but decided to settle for the smart play.

The Victoria native's lone catch went for 18 yards and a critical first down Sunday in Arizona's 32-25 NFC Championship win over Philadelphia.

The Cardinals faced a third-and-15 at their 31-yard line late in the second quarter and Urban knew the ball was coming his way when the Eagles blitzed quarterback Kurt Warner.

"Seeing the look that took place on that play, we had seen that look on film, I knew Kurt would have to get the ball out fast," Urban said. "I turned and looked and saw I had one guy to beat and (Brian) Dawkins was the only one out there. I thought about cutting back, but I decided to play smart football and I was able to get the first down."

The first down led to a field goal and a 24-6 halftime lead for the Cardinals.

The Eagles rallied to take a 25-24 lead, but the Cardinals put together a 72-yard, 14-play fourth-quarter drive to earn the first trip to the Super Bowl in franchise history.

"We were pretty hot in the first half," Urban said. "We were making plays in all three aspects of the game. You can say all you want about how you try mentally to tell yourself you're in a 0-0 game. But I've played long enough to know what the reality is. It's only human nature to have a let down and you have to give them credit because they made some plays.

"On the winning drive, our offensive line did a great job," Urban added. "We were able to get some movement and that allowed us to use the whole playbook."

Urban said the atmosphere during the game was like none he's every experienced.

"Our crowd was incredible," Urban said. "That was the best crowd I've ever been a part of. I would say they were a huge part of the win."

Urban celebrated with the fans and his teammates before joining a large group of family and friends who made the trip to Arizona for the game.

"I think it's starting to sink in," Urban said. "I've got quite a bit of family and friends here so I've been pretty busy. I'm sure when my wife, Emily, and I get home and have a chance to sit back and relax, we'll do quite a bit of reflecting. I know I'm going to enjoy this win a little longer than normal."

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