A Cowboys team inspired by its best start in 24 years, a franchise desperate to return to the NFL's elite, now has a better idea of what lies ahead. The outlook was as problematic as the snarled traffic around Texas Stadium after the game. But New England is the team of this decade. The Patriots' 48-27 victory was an affirmation of the present. "Well," Cowboys coach Wade Phillips said sheepishly, "they are that good."