Ravens-Cowboys by the numbers: 7 statistical matchups to watch in Rio

After clearing up any issues with the field at Maracanã Stadium, Baltimore and Dallas are a little over 24 hours from kicking off what could be an explosive, high-scoring matchup. The clearest advantage for the Ravens over the Cowboys lands in the rushing attack. Baltimore has produced strong rushing numbers through the first two weeks. Dallas has allowed opponents to run effectively. That advantage matters, but seven numbers show why the Ravens must also contain Dak Prescott and improve on third down.

1. Ravens rushing offense: 155 yards per game

Baltimore has rushed for 310 yards through two games. Derrick Henry has 212 yards and four touchdowns, giving the Ravens a reliable starting point if they continue to keep him involved after halftime.

2. Cowboys rushing defense: 173.5 yards allowed per game

Dallas has surrendered 347 rushing yards. If Baltimore can exploit that weakness, it can create manageable downs for Lamar Jackson while reducing Prescott's opportunities.

3. Cowboys rushing defense: 5.0 yards allowed per carry

Dallas's problem is both efficiency and volume. Giving Henry five yards at a time would let Baltimore stay in the run game without waiting for a long breakaway play.

4. Cowboys rushing offense: 67.5 yards per game

Dallas has only 135 rushing yards through two games. Baltimore's defense has allowed 83.5 per game , suggesting the Ravens can make Prescott carry much of the offense if they tackle well.

5. Dak Prescott: six touchdown passes, one interception

Prescott has thrown for 454 yards while completing 73.8% of his attempts. Even a successful Baltimore rushing day will not matter enough if Dallas answers quickly through the air.

6. Cowboys offensive third downs: 15-for-22

Dallas' 68.2% conversion rate shows how well it has extended drives. The Ravens have allowed opponents to convert 11 of 25 third downs. Getting Dallas into third down will be only half the job.

7. Cowboys defensive third downs: 17-for-25 allowed

Opponents have converted 68% of their third downs against Dallas. Baltimore's offense is seven-for-18, or 38.9%, through two games. If the Ravens improve that rate in Brazil, they can turn their rushing advantage into longer drives and points.

The numbers favor Baltimore's ground game, but they do not decide the game by themselves. The Ravens must convert that edge into sustained possessions, then prevent Prescott from undoing that work in a few throws.