In one of the more compelling international matchups in some time, Baltimore will square off against Dallas in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Sunday in a game featuring plenty of star power. The Ravens’ focus in the matchup with Dallas starts with Dak Prescott, but it doesn't end there. The Cowboys have multiple ways to finish drives through the air, while their defense still has individual players who can disrupt Baltimore despite its early struggles.
Dallas has listed cornerback Cobie Durant, safeties Malik Hooker and P.J. Locke, and linebacker DeMarvion Overshown as out. Those absences matter when assessing both the available personnel and the matchups that could impact Sunday's outcome.
1. Dak Prescott, quarterback
Prescott has completed 48 of 65 passes for 454 yards, six
touchdowns, and one interception. Baltimore cannot allow him to work comfortably from the pocket and distribute the ball on schedule.
2. CeeDee Lamb, wide receiver
Lamb leads Dallas with 197 receiving yards and three touchdowns. The Ravens may have to vary their coverage and tackle cleanly when Prescott gets him the ball underneath.
3. George Pickens, wide receiver
Pickens gives Dallas a second established outside target. Even with 68 yards through two games, he demands attention when Prescott looks downfield.
4. Jake Ferguson, tight end
Ferguson has turned six catches into two touchdowns. He is particularly relevant when the field shrinks, and Baltimore has less room to recover from a coverage mistake.
5. Javonte Williams, running back
Williams has 71 rushing yards on 24 carries, but he has added eight catches for 51 yards and a touchdown. His receiving work makes him a potential outlet if Baltimore takes away Prescott’s first read.
6. Quinnen Williams, defensive tackle
Williams can challenge the middle of Baltimore’s offensive line. Keeping him from disrupting early downs would help the Ravens stay with Derrick Henry and their preferred rushing approach.
7. Kenny Clark, defensive tackle
Clark gives Dallas another experienced interior defender. After protection problems against New Orleans, the Ravens need cleaner communication when the Cowboys threaten the gaps around the center.
8. Jaishawn Barham, linebacker
The rookie has 13 tackles and a forced fumble through two games. With Overshown listed as out, Barham’s role against Jackson and Henry becomes more consequential.
9. Shavon Revel Jr., cornerback
Revel could be part of a secondary adjusting to three other defenders being listed as out. Baltimore should test its matchups while remaining alert to his length and ability to contest throws.
10. Brandon Aubrey, kicker
Aubrey’s range can turn a Dallas possession into points before the offense reaches a conventional field-goal spot. Baltimore’s defense and special teams must treat field position accordingly.
Dallas’ passing game is its clearest strength. Baltimore’s opportunity is to make Prescott work for those throws while using its own rushing attack to challenge a defense that has already allowed 347 yards on the ground.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: 10 Cowboys players Ravens fans should know before matchup in Brazil
