Bruce Carter debuted as starting inside linebacker beside Sean Lee in the season opener, resulting in the fastest linebacking duo ever fielded by the Dallas Cowboys. Carter was terrific against the run, grading out even higher than Sean Lee.

Sean Lee, meanwhile, had a terrific game, forcing a fumble and making 10 tackles.

With the addition of Carter, who runs a sub-4.5 40 and is considered by Jerry Jones to be the fastest line backer in the NFL (via ESPN), how great can this linebacking corp become in 2012?

Pro Bowl outside line backer DeMarcus Ware let it be known that he is still in his prime in the season opener, with two sacks on Eli Manning, despite constant double-teams. Anthony Spencer had four tackles, three stops and four QB hurries in the game as well.

If Spencer can get over his nickname of "almost Anthony" and sack the QB more frequently this year, Dallas' linebacking corp could be the best in the league.

If that sounds like a hyperbole, consider this: DeMarcus Ware is considered by many to be the best defensive player in the NFL—not just the best linebacker, but the best defensive player. Darelle Revis is the only other player that could be in that conversation.

Sean Lee is now widely recognized as a Pro Bowl-quality line backer.

Now Bruce Carter has been added to the mix. Factor in all the improvements in the secondary, which will lead to more coverage sacks and the ingredients are in place for a top five defense.

Carter will learn to trust his instincts more as the season progresses, a result of playing alongside and analyzing film with Lee. With the two of them roaming the center of the field together, this defense could become something truly special.