2011 NFL Predictions: 7 Ways Tony Romo and the Cowboys Are Super Bowl Contenders

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 27: Quarterback Tony Romo #9 of the Dallas Cowboys motions during a time out in the pre-season game against the Minnesota Vikings at Mall of America Field on August 27, 2011 in Minneapolis, MN. (Photo by Adam Bettcher /Getty Imag

Adam Bettcher/Getty Images

After a miserable 2010 campaign that was basically a failure at every level, the Cowboys are looking to make a big improvement in 2011.

They not only want to make the playoffs. They want to get to the Super Bowl.

Here are seven reasons why the Dallas Cowboys should actually be viewed as serious contenders.

No. 1: Romo Is Healthy

ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 31: Injured quarterback Tony Romo of the Dallas Cowboys looks on from the sideline against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Cowboys Stadium on October 31, 2010 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

Tony Romo will be healthy at the start of the year, and he's a proven playmaker and proven winning quarterback.

He has also a big chip on his shoulder, and he'll want to take the reins to prove to everyone that he's the No. 1 quarterback to lead this team, both now and in the future.

No. 2: Jason Garrett a Leader

ARLINGTON, TX - AUGUST 11: Head coach Jason Garrett of the Dallas Cowboys and Bryan McCann #37 at Cowboys Stadium on August 11, 2011 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

Garrett will be at the helm for his first full season.

Last year, the Cowboys really started to turn around with his direction, and now they'll be prepared for a full season with Garrett.

The players believe in him and trust in his system, and he has the smarts to help get big wins.

No. 3: Solid Running Game

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 27: Felix Jones #28 of the Dallas Cowboys scores against the Minnesota Vikings in the first half on August 27, 2011 at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

Even without Marion Barber, the Cowboys have a strong crew of running backs, led by Felix Jones.

Jones is explosive and is ready to have a breakout season as he'll be the clear No. 1 threat this year.

No. 4: Cowboys Have Skill

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 27: Bernard Berrian #87 of the Minnesota Vikings catches the ball after an interception attempt by Abram Elam #24 of the Dallas Cowboys in the first half on August 27, 2011 at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Hannah Foslien/Getty Images

Don't forget about the rest of the skill players on the team.

Dez Bryant should be ready to explode, Jason Witten is one of the best tight ends in the league, Miles Austin is a proven big-time wide receiver, and more.

Romo has plenty of targets to work with.

No. 5: DeMarcus Ware Blows Up Plays

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 02: Kevin Kolb #4 of the Philadelphia Eagles is sacked by DeMarcus Ware #94 of the Dallas Cowboys on January 2, 2011 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Cowboys defeated the Eagles 14-13. (Photo by Ji

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

Ware is a force on defense, and is a threat to sack the quarterback or blow up a play on every single down. Opposing teams really have to game plan for this guy, and if they don't, it's their mistake.

No. 6: Jerry Jones Wants to Win Now!

SAN DIEGO - AUGUST 21: Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones during preseason game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on August 21, 2010 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

If this team doesn't contend this year, then everyone's heads could be ready to roll. Jerry Jones has been fed up, and this team and coaching staff needs to perform now to keep that owner happy.