NFL Opening Week: Predicting All 16 Games As Pro Football Returns

San Francisco 49ers @ Dallas Cowboys 4:25 Fox

Aug 28, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) warms up before the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The match-up: The San Francisco 49ers are coming off a 12-4 season which included a loss to the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game. The 49ers added many weapons including wide receivers Anquan Boldin [11,344 career yards], Stevie Johnson [3,832 yards in six seasons] and Brandon Lloyd [5,695 career yards]. All of this will make Colin Kaepernick’s life a whole lot easier. Dallas is coming off an 8-8 season. It’s quarterback Tony Romo had back surgery and was eased into preseason action. While the defense is lacking a bit, running back DeMarco Murray [3,685 rushing yards in four seasons] and Dez Bryant [4,104 receiving yards in four seasons] return and will continue to get their yards.

Why San Francisco will win: Not to be harsh, but the 49ers got better in the off-season and the Cowboys did not. Kaepernick should be able to throw all day long. Start all 49ers wide receivers and Kaepernick on your fantasy football teams.

Why Dallas will win: Tony Romo needs to have a career game. I expect the 49ers to throw early and often which means Romo will have to do the same. He has the weapons to do so, just is he healthy enough to maintain his performance for an entire game?

Final score: 49ers 49 Cowboys 17