NFL Preview: NFC East

This is the second of my eight divisional NFL previews.

1. Dallas Cowboys (12-4)

A first-rate offense and above average defense makes this a great year for the Cowboys. Their multi-faceted offensive attack will be key to their success. They boast a top-3 receiver, quarterback, and tight end plus a physically dominating offensive line that should provide plenty of holes for Marion Barber to go through. Not that he needs them anyway. Their already solid defense starring OLB DeMarcus Ware (14 Sacks) and safety Roy Williams in enhanced by seasoned veteran Zach Thomas who will provide on-field and off-field leadership. Oh, and did I mention they have one of the best kickers in the game in Nick Folk? Did I even need to? They're just that good.

2 (Tie). New York Giants (10-6)

Fresh off of a Superbowl win, the Giants are energized to do great things this year. While they'll finish with roughly the same record as last year, their postseason dreams just won't come true. Their offense is still fine: They have a strong O-Line and a decent passing/rushing game. However on defense, the loss of Michael Strahan leaves a gaping hole at right end which will either be filled by an unqualified player or someone out of position (probably Mathias Kiwanuka). The G-Men will be lucky to make it out of the first round of the playoffs at all.

2 (Tie). Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)

The Eagles are probably better than I give them credit for here, but they play in the 2nd toughest division in the game (AFC South being #1), so it'll be hard. If McNabb can stay healthy, the Eagles, who already have the #2 all-around running back in he game, should thrive. Despite having the 6th best offense and 10th best defense, the Eagles still managed to underachieve. This should be turned around by the addition of Asante Samuel, a very talented CB who totaled 6 picks last season. All in all, things are looking up for the team from the City of Brotherly Love.

4. Washington Redskins (6-10)

Look, I'm not saying they're a bad team. They just are unfortunate that they have to play the Eagles, Cowboys and Giants a total of 6 times this year. They'll most likely go 2-4 in division and have a .400 record outside of it. They have a great back in Clinton Portis and three respectable targets in Randle El, Moss and TE Chris Cooley. The quarterback, Jason Campbell is another story. He's injury prone and a bit shaky but shows signs of promise and should do well in the west-coast offense scheme which he utilized at Auburn Their defense is good on paper, but is really starting to get old. They have the stars of yesterday who may serve as off-the-field leaders, but their big three (Jason Taylor, London Fletcher, and Shawn Springs) are all at least 33 years old, a time when NFL players start showing huge signs of wear and tear. The Skins are an okay team, but they have a rough schedule.