Getty Images
Like any other team in the NFL, the Dallas Cowboys‘ success hinges on the performance of Tony Romo this season. He had a spectacular year in 2014, and he hopes to continue that success in 2015 as well. The offense is littered with weapons and talent, starting with an elite offensive line and Dez Bryant. Even without DeMarco Murray in the backfield carrying the ball 390 times, Romo will have a Pro Bowl-type season and lead the Cowboys to the playoffs for the second-straight season.
Heading into training camp, Romo obviously has absolutely zero competition for his starting spot. Barring a severe injury, Romo will be the Cowboys’ starting quarterback in Week 1… for the next five seasons, most likely. Romo has proven to be an elite quarterback in this league, something that’s tough to come by. He’s already set just about every Cowboys passing record, and he’ll continue to break more this season. His decision making and accuracy have improved from year to year, and I expect that trend to continue in 2015.
In 2014, Romo threw for 3,705 yards — his fewest in a full season since 2008 — and 34 touchdowns, with only nine interceptions. He finished the year with a 113.2 passer rating, sixth-highest in a single season in NFL history. Those eye-popping numbers were enough to secure him a spot in the Pro Bowl, but shockingly didn’t earn him a spot as an All-Pro. With Murray gone, Romo’s yards will likely increase, but I don’t expect his completion percentage or interceptions to take a hit.
I begged the question recently as to whether Romo is more likely to win an MVP or a Super Bowl ring in 2015. I see Romo as a better candidate for Super Bowl MVP than regular season MVP for the simple fact that football is the ultimate team sport and the Cowboys have a Super Bowl-caliber team this year. Unlike in years past, Romo has help all around the field, specifically on defense. An improved defense will give Romo more freedom to sling the ball around the field, knowing his defense can bail him out in the case of a turnover.
Last season was arguably the best of Romo’s career, but I think this season can be even better. The tools are all there — he just needs to continue to make good decisions and put his team in a position to win.
