Cowboys writer thinks DAL may have to play Rams in season opener

The NFL knows that the Dallas Cowboys are America’s Team. They are a beloved team that gets big-time TV ratings. Maybe that’s why Dallas often appears in season openers and primetime games. The league introduced its season opener game in 2002 as a way to get fans excited for the season to come. It typically takes place on the Thursday after Labor Day before the first heap of Sunday games. In all but one year since 2002, the defending champions have played in the season opener.

Last season, the Cowboys took on the reigning champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Dallas headed to Florida for what was an incredibly exciting game. This game launched Dak Prescott’s campaign for both Comeback Player of the Year and his short-lived potential for MVP as he threw for 503 yards and three touchdowns. Kicker Greg Zuerlein missed three kicks throughout the game (shocker) but did end up making a field goal to put the Cowboys up with under two minutes to go.

But, as we all know, one minute and 29 seconds for Tom Brady is essentially a lifetime. The GOAT would march his team down the field and the Bucs would score a field goal to beat the Cowboys. While Dallas didn’t win, it was a fascinating game that gave Cowboys Nation hope for the season.

Could Roger Goodell and company make Dallas face the Super Bowl champs again in the opener next season? As we know, the Cowboys are scheduled to play the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi at some point (the schedule is not official yet but opponents are) next season. Mike Fisher of Sports Illustrated is speculating that matchup may just be the opener.

Could the Dallas Cowboys play the Los Angeles Rams in the 2022 NFL season opener at SoFi Stadium?

Again, this is all speculation. But it does make sense. The Rams’ other home opponents are the Seahawks, 49ers, Bills, Cardinals, Panthers, Falcons, Broncos, and Raiders. The only other teams that may bring more ratings than Dallas would likely be San Francisco, Las Vegas, or Buffalo.

All of these matchups would be exciting, but the Cowboys are the Cowboys. If the NFL wants to start its season off with fireworks, this wouldn’t be a bad choice. But will Dallas live up to the challenge once again? After a dismal end to their season, would they have what it takes to bring down the Super Bowl champions in the first game of 2022 on the road?

If this does happen, you know that scrutinizing eyes will be all over the Cowboys. Reporters, analysts, and fans will be looking to see whether Dallas does really have the roster to get it done (coaching staff included).