In the six power rankings polls listed below, the Cowboys’ average ranking is 9.  This represents quite an improvement for a team that was lucky to survive the Tampa Bay game with a win.

1. Jeremy Green, ESPN Podcast: Cowboys are #11

Jeremy Green isn’t very happy to move Dallas from #16 to #11. The basic ranking makes since generally, except for two problems: (1) Dallas is 5-3, not 4-3; and (2) he left Tampa Bay three spots ahead of Dallas.

[audio:http://www.sportsblogsandforums.com/videos/2008/green.wk9.mp3]

2. ESPN NFL Writers: Cowboys are #8

According to ESPN, the Cowboys moved eight spots up, moving ahead of a bunch of 4-3 teams.

At least for one week, the Cowboys saved their season. Now, they’ll have to face the Giants with Brad Johnson at quarterback. Good luck. (MM)

3. Fox Sports: Cowboys are #10

Adrian Hasenmayer of Fox Sports also kept Dallas behind Tampa Bay, ranking the Cowboys at #10.

Wade Phillips saved his job, but Brad Johnson may have lost his as backup quarterback. Can you imagine if Jeff Garcia would have dropped the ‘Boys to 4-4 in Texas Stadium? Jerry Jones’ face may have melted

4. NBC Sports: Cowboys are #12

The Cowboys are still behind Tampa Bay and Green Bay at #12 in NBCSports.com’s ranking. This site allows fans to vote as well, and the fans also have the Cowboys ranked at number 12.

5. Pro Football Weekly: Cowboys are #6

The editors of Pro Football Weekly have the Cowboys at number 6, ahead of Buffalo and New England. I wouldn’t go that far.

6. CBS Sportsline: Cowboys are #6

Pete Prisco at CBS also has Dallas all the way up at #6.  His comment: “Did the victory over Tampa Bay cure their ills? Hardly. They need Tony Romo back in the worst way. Too bad he won’t be there against the Giants.”

A bit disconcerting was the poll featured on the site.  According to 41,411 visitors, Dallas is least likely to win the NFC East this year:

Who will win the NFC East?
15% Eagles
56% Giants
11% Cowboys
18% Redskins