Can Cowboys Prove Tom Brady's Power Rankings Right with Win Over Saints?

FRISCO — The Dallas Cowboys impressed in Week 1 with a 33-17 domination of the Cleveland Browns. Amid several contract distractions throughout the offseason, some projected a slip up for the Cowboys in their first game.

They showed the exact opposite, instead reminding the NFL audience where they rank among the best in the league.

Tom Brady, a firsthand witness to the Cowboys' performance, took note in his first installment of his power rankings . He placed Dallas fourth overall, behind the Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions.

While fans have piled in for criticism of Brady's rankings, the league moves quick and the focus turns to Week 2. Sunday, the Cowboys host the New Orleans Saints in their season debut at AT&T Stadium.

Dallas has proven a strong home team in recent years, finishing the regular season undefeated in such games in 2023. They look to continue that success against a Saints group that posted 47 points in their opener.

But this will be an entirely new challenge for the visitors. Defensively, the Cowboys have the same abundance of talent under an entirely new complexion under Mike Zimmer.

Additionally, this Saints defense will have to manage the Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb connection. The teams have not met since 2021, but Lamb posted 132 all-purpose yards against New Orleans in that game.

Marshon Lattimore's status will be a key factor in combating that lethal quarterback-receiver connection.

In a similar spot last season, the Cowboys found themselves riding a tidal wave of momentum into an early season game before laying an egg in an unusual spot against the Arizona Cardinals.

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This time, they are at home against a different opponent, but would be well advised to handle what on paper looks an advantageous matchup for "America's Team."

A big win Sunday would not only reassure the confidence in the Cowboys, but temporarily silence the doubters who likely also disagree with Brady's rankings.

If Dallas continues what they put forth a week ago, not only should they stay near the top of Brady's rankings, but also prepare for him to be on the call for more games involving the Cowboys going forward.