The Dallas Cowboys are coming off of a disappointing season, finishing with a 6-10 record. Star quarterback Dak Prescott went down with an injury in Week 5, which derailed their campaign. With Prescott back this season, the Cowboys have a shot at making a run for the NFL Playoffs. They start the season on Thursday against defending champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Tom Brady and company look ready to defend their title as they brought back all of their starters from last year. It will be a tough matchup for the Cowboys but they have elite offensive talent.
Here are four bold predictions for the Cowboys in Week 1 against the Buccaneers.
4. Amari Cooper goes for 100 yards
Cooper has become one of the most underrated wide receivers in the league. He has been one of the best ones for years now but many people have forgotten. He hasn't lost confidence in himself as he recently talked about where he stands among the elite (via Dallas Morning News).
“I am the best receiver in the league. But there's a difference between thinking you're the best and actually going out there and proving it. Do I think I'm the best? Yes. Have I proven it? I wouldn't say I have.”
Cooper has his first shot at proving to the world that he is a top receiver in the NFL against the tough defense of the Buccaneers.
3. The defense forces a turnover
The main downfall of the Cowboys last season was their defense. The team, however, focused on improving its defense in the offseason. The Cowboys selected eight defensive players out of their 11 draft picks, including their first six selections.
The new defensive talent should help the Cowboys force more turnovers this season. The Buccaneers have a dynamic offense led by Brady but the Cowboys' defense can hold fort.
2. CeeDee Lamb catches 5 plus passes
A potential breakout star this season is Lamb. He had a solid rookie campaign and a full season with Prescott under center. He is bound to get a ton of targets in the Cowboys' elite-level offense.
Last season, Lamb caught 74 passes for 935 yards and five touchdowns. He showcased his potential throughout the season, and he is ready to make the leap.
1. Dak Prescott throws 3 plus touchdowns
Prescott is ready to start his comeback campaign. Before getting injured last season, Prescott was on pace for historic numbers. He was doing everything he could to keep the Cowboys in games, despite their horrendous defense. In his five games, Prescott threw for 1,856 yards along with nine touchdowns and four interceptions. He also had a 68 percent completion rate, which is above league average.
Prescott is primed to pick up where he left off, especially with the weapons at his disposal. The wide receiver trio of Cooper, Lamb, and Michael Gallup will be near the top of the NFL. Prescott is a dynamic quarterback that should put up great numbers.
The match between the Cowboys and the Buccaneers on opening night is destined to be a great one. Two high-level offenses will be battling it out, and it could be a high-scoring affair. While the Cowboys don't have the same defensive talent as the Buccaneers, a few stops could keep them in the game.
The Cowboys should have a solid season, and their Week 1 assignment will be enticing.