How the Dallas Cowboys stack up against NFC contenders

For some time now we've all assumed that the Dallas Cowboys were going to be seen as a contender that could emerge from the NFC this season, but what about other possible contenders?

How do the Cowboys stack up against them if they had to go head-to-head? Would the defense be able to hold up against an aggressive and effective offense and would the offense be able to move the ball and score points on a talented defense?

Only time will tell. In the meantime, we can take a look at how these teams are built and what the Cowboys' advantages and vulnerabilities could be against them. With that, here are six teams that could make the playoffs. Let's analyze how each squad stacks up against Dallas.

Let's start with the most obvious candidate on this list.

Philadelphia Eagles

2022 Points Per Game: 28.1 (3rd)
2022 Points Per Game Against: 20.2 (8th)
Key Offseason Additions: RB D'Andre Swift, DT Jalen Carter, S Terrell Edmunds, QB Marcus Mariota, LB Zach Cunningham, RB Rashaad Penny, S Justin Evans, OLB Nolan Smith

Cowboys Advantage - Defensive Line Depth

Last year's NFC East divisional winner is seen by all as one of the teams that will make it into the playoffs and possibly back to the Super Bowl. That's all thanks to how well their offensive line was able to protect quarterback Jalen Hurts and their ability to open up lanes in the running game.

This time around, though, the Cowboys -- thanks to their additions along the defensive line and in the linebacking group -- look to have the advantage in this war in the trenches. Their depth in both areas will allow this defense to send waves of fresh defenders at an offensive line that is bringing back four starters from last year.

Pay particular attention to how they attack second-year center/guard Cam Jurgens who is penciled in as their starting right guard. He could be where they try and attack this offensive line. The Cowboys may try sending heavy pressure off the left side in order to slide protection away from Jurgens leaving him in more one-on-one matchups while Lane Johnson is dealing with DeMarcus Lawrence to gain an advantage.

Cowboys Vulnerability - Offensive Line vs. Eagles DL

Much like the Cowboys defensive line is the strength of their defense, the same goes for the Eagles. Against this Dallas OL, they could be a problem, especially if the Cowboys sustain an injury to a starter.

They have strength and speed along the line and with the addition of Jalen Carter they've added another monster in the middle of that defense. It's going to be tough for the Cowboys offensive line win consistently up front and without a quality running back that can pass protect, it makes it even tougher to protect Dak Prescott. Hopefully Rico Dowdle can fill Ezekiel Elliott's shoes.

Tyron Smith is back at left tackle, but we have seen him struggle against smaller and faster pass rushers and the Eagles will be able to send Haason Reddick at him throughout the game. They will also test the middle of the defense with Carter, whose blend of size and speed could be a problem for center Tyler Biadasz who has struggled dealing with players like this in the past.