The Dallas Cowboys are reeling with two straight losses to the Atlanta Falcons and the New Orleans Saints. The team has been ravaged by injuries, including the loss of the QB Tony Romo and WR Dez Bryant. However, all hope is not lost. The Cowboys still have a great shot at winning the NFC East this year. Here are five reasons why the Dallas Cowboys are guaranteed to make the playoffs this season.
1. Dez Will Be Back Soon
The Cowboys are lacking weapons, especially with the loss of Bryant and Lance Dunbar, who was having a breakout season. However, Bryant will be back soon, possibly as early as the after the Week 6 bye. Having a playmaker like Bryant for the offense could be the difference in games against the Eagles, Giants and Buccaneers. Bryant is one of the best playmakers in the league, and his return will give the Cowboys both a boost on the field and in confidence.
2. Suspensions Are Over
The Cowboys have been without two key contributors on defense in LB Rolando McClain and DE Greg Hardy because of suspensions. Both will be back starting in Week 5 and they'll be a needed boost to the defense. Hardy provides the Cowboys a dangerous pass rushing threat the team has been without since DeMarcus Ware was cut. McClain had a breakout season last year and will be counted on to continue that level of play. With those two back, the defense will improve.
3. Schedule
The Cowboys' schedule isn't perfect, but it's favorable enough for the team to make a run at the postseason. Games against the Giants, Eagles and Buccaneers are winnable, even without Romo. While a win against the Saints would have made things easier (and calmed fans), the Cowboys can still post a 4-5 or even 5-4 record until Romo is eligible to return.
4. Eventual Return Of Romo
Romo will be back this year, and that's a major reason why the Cowboys will still make the playoffs. He's one of the best and most clutch QBs in the NFL. He could be back as soon as Week 11 against the Dolphins, a game the team could probably win without him. Dallas faces talented teams like the Packers, Panthers, Jets and Bills after Week 11 and will need him if it wants to pick up a few wins in the closing stretch.
5. Weak NFC East
The Cowboys have already beaten the Eagles and Giants, which will go a long way in the race for the NFC East. The team should also have Romo back for two games against the Redskins. Plus, it's not like the NFC East is that good this season. The Giants have promise, but have had major issues blowing games late. The Eagles have huge problems moving the ball and no one that isn't a Redskins fan trusts Kirk Cousins for an entire season. The Cowboys' path is harder because of injuries, but they'll still end up as NFC East champs this season.
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