Dallas Cowboys: Favorability rankings of playoff opponents

The rematch

New Orleans ranks as the second least favorable matchup for Dallas simply because of the change in venue. The Saints are vastly different at home. Over the past two seasons, they are 14-2 at home. The offense, led by possible MVP quarterback Drew Brees has scored 30+ seven times in that span, 40+ four times and 50+ once.

Dallas did hold the Saints to just 10 points in late November but I wouldn’t bet on that same result in the Mercedes Benz Superdome.

The team Dallas does not want to see

Chicago. Simply put, these Bears are just a better version of the Cowboys. Both teams have young quarterbacks. Both have formidable running games as well. The difference is the Bears passing attack is much more diverse and electric than the Cowboys. Then there is that defense.

While the Cowboys defense, led by end DeMarcus Lawrence, cornerback Byron Jones and the best linebacker trio in football are exceptional, the Bears are better.

Chicago has given up the fourth least amount of yards per game. They are eighth against the pass, second against the run and have given up the third least amount of points.

Dallas is sixth, ninth, fifth and fourth respectively.

The Bears also lead the league in interceptions (27), opponent’s passer rating (72.5) and have the fifth most sacks (46) in the NFL.

Head-to-head, I believe Chicago would frustrate quarterback Dak Prescott and be able to shut down running back Ezekiel Elliott because of it. While the Cowboys defense would keep things close, I don’t think Dallas wants any part of a January road game in the Windy City.

So there you have it, one man’s thoughts on who Dallas would most and least like to see in the playoffs. Feel free to leave you opinions below.