Ranking the Dallas Cowboys nine NFC opponents in 2020
By Brad Austin
4) MINNESOTA (NFC CENTRAL, 2019 RECORD: 10-6)
Stefon Diggs’ 1,130 receiving yards was a big loss in the offseason. LSU’s Justin Jefferson should dampen the blow as a first round draft pick. Losing both starting corners will weaken the pass defense, but new corner talent arrives with a first and third round draft pick.
Relying on talented rookies at key spots should keep them below 10 wins. Four road games versus 10+ win teams won’t help.
5) ATLANTA (NFC SOUTH, 2019 RECORD: 7-9)
Signing Todd Gurley will improve a weak running game. Losing tight end Austin Hooper (787 yards) sets that position back with no comparable replacement.
The defense adds Dante Fowler (11.5 sacks) but still looks only marginally better than 2019’s 23rd ranked unit. An improved division should hold them under 9 wins.
6) LOS ANGELES RAMS (NFC WEST, 2019 RECORD: 9-7)
The offense remains relatively the same despite the key loss of running back Gurley. Second round rookie Cam Akers could help mute the damage. Fowler’s departure hurts the pass rush. Expect a slight drop off and 8-win ceiling in a division with the top two teams on this list.