2012 NFL Predictions: Dallas Cowboys Expected to Win 9 Games in 2012

The Dallas Cowboys open up their 2012 NFL schedule on the road against the New York Giants inside MetLife Stadium on Wednesday, Sept. 5, which could be a key indicator in the team's ability to beat the oddsmakers.

BetOnline Sportsbook has set the Cowboys' regular-season win total at 9 while they are currently at betting of 25/1 to win it all in New Orleans in Super Bowl XLVII.

Dallas lost both meetings with New York a season ago, finishing with a disappointing 8-8 record and missing the playoffs for a second consecutive year. The Cowboys' misfortunes were on display early in a 27-24 loss to the New York Jets in Week 1, as they were unable to hold onto a 14-point fourth-quarter lead.

Tony Romo is coming off his best statistical season of his seven-year NFL career, throwing for 4,184 passing yards and 31 touchdowns, with only 10 interceptions. He also achieved his first triple-digit quarterback rating (102.5), finishing fourth in the league in that category.

Some may view starting the season on the road in the first two weeks as a disadvantage, but the schedule allows for plenty of rest before traveling to both destinations. A flight to the Pacific Northwest to take on the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2 isn't as daunting due to playing a midweek season opener.

I'd be a little concerned with the bye week coming after just four games of the season for the second consecutive year, as the Baltimore Ravens were the only team out of a group of six to make the playoffs in that situation in 2011.

Playing four of five games on the road off the bye will likely define the season especially when the second meeting with the Giants is the lone home game in that stretch.

Climbing over this past season's win total may come down to how good the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints end up being, as the Cowboys welcome in those playoff teams from a year ago in Week 15 and 16 respectively.

I believe the oddsmakers are spot on with this season win total, but I may revisit it during the preseason.

Early Prediction: Dallas Cowboys finish with a 9-7 record

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