Montgomery's dream comes true in homecoming

ARLINGTON, Texas - He dreamed of playing running back in Cowboys Stadium, his hometown cheering for him.

The reality was a little different Sunday afternoon. Green Bay Packers running back Ty Montgomery, a Dallas native who grew up working a concession stand during Cowboys games, was the enemy in Sunday’s divisional playoff game.

And he gave his hometown fans plenty of pain.

Montgomery provided just enough counterbalance for Aaron Rodgers’ brilliance during a 34-31 win, leading the Packers with 11 carries for 47 yards. He was especially effective on the goal line, following a 3-yard touchdown run with a 1-yard touchdown on consecutive second-quarter drives.

McGINN: Crosby keeps Packers alive, kicking

DOUGHERTY: Packers will live or die with Rodgers

D'AMATO: Dagger through the heart of Texas

PLAYOFFS: Schedule, times

BOX SCORE: Packers 34, Cowboys 31 | Scores

“I just tried to find any small seam I could,” Montgomery said. “I knew where the run was going. Just tried to find something small and just hit it, keep my feet moving.”

Other than the touchdowns, Montgomery’s biggest play came while running a downfield route late in the fourth quarter. Rodgers’ pass intended for Montgomery was overthrown, intercepted along the right sideline by Cowboys safety Jeff Heath. But defensive back Anthony Brown was penalized for pass interference, nullifying Heath’s interception.

“He grabbed me,” Montgomery said.

The drive ended with a field goal. The game ended with a win.

Montgomery said he had 36 family members in the stands Sunday. For them, he provided a pair of memorable scores.

“It was incredible,” Montgomery said. “Something I’ve been wanting to do for a long time. I’ve been thinking about it since I was little, having dreams about it. And it came true. So I’m just taking it all in right now.”

rwood@gannett.com and follow him on Twitter @ByRyanWood