My overwhelming sense about this week's game against the New Orleans Saints is Curiosity. I am not particularly afraid the Cowboys will lose the game, but simultaneously would not be totally shocked if they do.
The Cowboys are playing a capable team in their own home field, captained by a former 1st round pick Quarterback with winning experience in the NFL. Bridgewater has an 18-12 record as a starter in the NFL, and has thrown for more touchdowns than interceptions. This Saints team should have been the NFC representative in last year's Superbowl, so they have more talent than their injured QB. They are a legitimate contender, even with Brees sidelined, and Bridgewater starting in his place. And the Saints are very motivated to avenge the embarassing loss they experienced last year at the hands of a rising Dallas team.
On the other hand, the Cowboys ARE a rising team. And all indications from the team are that they are still on the rise, and are much better this year than last year's team that dealt the loss to the Saints. Despite the hand-wringing by some fans, outside a couple of garbage time touchdowns, the defense is giving up only 10 points per game during the competitive phase of the game, and the offense is putting up triple that amount. This would be a tough game for the Saints to win even with Drew Brees still in the lineup.
So, my predominant feeling going into Sunday is curiosity. I want to know just how good this Cowboys team really is. And it will also be illuminating to find out just how good this Saints team is. Are they still the team that was one blown pass interference call away from being in the Super Bowl? Are they still really the class of the National Football Conference? Or have the Cowboys eclipsed the Saints, as the odds makers in Las Vegas seem to believe?
Inquiring minds want to know...
