This is the fifth in a series of articles previewing the NFL season, featuring the NFC East. Whatifsports.com will utilize our NFL simulation technology, statistical research capabilities, and up-to-the minute roster and depth chart information to preview the upcoming NFL season.
Rosters and depth charts are up-to-date and as accurate as possible as of June 8, 2008. A schedule of upcoming NFL preview content, including links to other previews that have already been posted, is located here.
For details on how we generate the results and the definition of the Absolute Record, click here.
Dallas Cowboys (12-4)
The Super Bowl run by the Giants after they defeated the Cowboys may not have sweetened the taste in the Cowboys' mouths, but this is still a very good, balanced team that had a great 2007 and should match that in 2008. The Cowboys average 29.9 points per game (#2 in the NFL) and allow 19.7 points (#6) against a schedule featuring eight games against 2007 playoff teams.
Absolute Record: 15-1
Most Significant Newcomer: Zach Thomas, LB—He probably should not be playing another season, but he signed with the Cowboys and could, yet again, be a tackling machine (when healthy). It's Thomas' chance to win a Super Bowl, and he will do everything he can to get his team there. We have Thomas with 100 tackles in 12 games. If those four missed games are the final four of the season and the injury has anything to do with his head, Thomas may be forced to retire before Dallas could vie for a spot in the Super Bowl.
Biggest Strength: Balance—This team does not have any obvious weaknesses (I just killed my next topic). The Cowboys have talent at every position and do just about everything well.
Most Exploitable Weakness: Uncertainty on Offense—Dallas can do just about everything well, but players like Marion Barber, Felix Jones, Patrick Crayton and even Tony Romo have never had to sustain a level of excellence for an entire season in the roles that they will be asked to fulfill in 2008. All the numbers point to success by the entire offense, but it is cause for concern.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper:
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6 months ago
This is the toughest division in football this year and was last year too. Look for the Eagles to be better and contend for the division title. All 4 teams have good running backs and QB as well.
6 months ago
GIANTS AT 15-1!!!!!!!!!!
EAGLES AT 8-8!!!!!!!!!!
Sorry, I just don't believe.
6 months ago
I understand it's just a simulation, but I just can't believe any of this. Giants at 15-1? When I read that, this lost all credibility with me. The fact that the Eagles are last in the division confuses me too. This is obviously the toughest division in the league by far, but I don't see how this team could conceivably go 8-8, even if McNabb ends up injured at some point. I do think this team can play right there with Dallas. The Eagles have an EXTREMELY solid defense, and I think the offensive line will be much improved this year. Last year the entire team was just absolutely plagued by injuries and really bad breaks; I may be partial, but I just can't see that again. I'd say 10-6 and the least, with Washington around 8-8 and neither Dallas nor New York touching 15-1. That's flat out ridiculous.
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