Ravens’ stingy run defense meets a Cowboys ground game in trouble

Baltimore's run defense can shape Sunday's game in Brazil before Dak Prescott has a chance to get comfortable throwing the football.

The Ravens have allowed 167 rushing yards in two games, an average of 83.5 , while Dallas has gained just 135 , or 67.5 per game . The Cowboys are averaging 3.5 yards per carry and have produced only seven rushing first downs. Baltimore has permitted 3.6 yards per attempt, though opponents have scored three rushing touchdowns. The Ravens have contained yardage; they still have work to do near the goal line.

That distinction matters against Dallas. The Cowboys have shown they can score without a productive rushing attack. Prescott threw four touchdowns in their Week 2 win over Washington, distributing the ball to a receiving group led by CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens . Stopping the run alone will not stop that offense.

It could, however, narrow Dallas' options. Second-and-long and third-and-long would give Baltimore's pass rush more chances to attack Prescott. The Ravens have five sacks through two games, but the Cowboys have allowed only two. If Baltimore lets Dallas stay ahead of the chains, Prescott could continue working from a clean pocket.

The Ravens are looking to rebound from a loss in which New Orleans erased a fourth-quarter deficit. A strong run game would put Baltimore in favorable situations throughout the game. Finishing those possessions with stops, particularly in scoring territory, is the next step.