Is Dallas an elite team in the NFL? If last week’s loss to Green Bay is any indication, the answer is a resounding “NO”. But let’s be fair to our boys in blue and see what the stats say about America’s Team. Do they measure up with the best in the NFL? Let’s find out.

Offense

Total Yards

Cowboys rank 4th in total yards (3,514) and yards per game (390.4) behind the Saints, Patriots, and Colts.

Passing Yards

Cowboys rank 6th in the league in passing yards (2,344) and yards per game (260.4) behind

Rushing Yards

Cowboys rank 8th in rushing yards (1,170) and yards per game (130) behind Panthers, Dolphins, Jets, Titans, Saints, Jaguars, and Giants.

Points

Cowboys rank 11th in total points scored (224) and points per game (24.9) behind Saints, Vikings, Patriots, Colts, Dolphins, Eagles, Chargers, Packers, Giants, and Cardinals.

A team that is the 4th best yardage gaining offense and 11th best in scoring is talented in the open field and disappointing in the red zone.

Defense

Total Yards Allowed

Dallas ranks 15th in total yards allowed (2,975) and yards per game (330.6).

Passing Yards Allowed

Dallas ranks 18th in passing yards allowed (2,047) and passing yards per game (227.4).

Rushing Yards Allowed

Dallas ranks 9th in rushing yards (928) and rushing yards per game (103).

Points Allowed

Dallas ranks 8th in points allowed (169) and points allowed per game (18.8).

A defense that is 15th in allowing total yards but 8th in points allowed isn’t sticking it to the opposition in the open field, but is holding their own when it counts.

The Verdict

A team that is 11th in points scored and 8th in points allowed can hardly be considered “elite.” They still have the potential and the talent to become elite. But until this team can gel and develop consistency against the pass and offensively with the run, this team remains a jumbled mix of unrealized potential.

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