Tom Brady gets a lot of credit (deservedly so) for the Patriots' success over the years, but the biggest difference between Dallas and New England over the years since Romo has been here (and now Dak) is defense.
This year, the Pats have the No. 1 scoring defense. In 2014, the Patriots allowed just 1.7 points per drive (sixth-best). In 2007, they were fourth overall in total defense.
Only in 2011 did the Pats have an average defense, and it was still better than ours.
Until our defense becomes good enough to complement our offense, we should not be mentioned in the same breath as New England.