The Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens are bringing plenty of familiar names to Rio de Janeiro for their Week 3 matchup. With both teams having playmakers on offense and defense, there will be several players worth keeping an eye on when they meet Sunday.

According to Glenn Erby of Ravens Wire, these 10 Cowboys players could have an important role in the game.

1. Dak Prescott, Quarterback

Dak Prescott has gotten off to a strong start this season, completing 48 of 65 passes for 454 yards, six touchdowns and one interception.

The Ravens will have to deal with Prescott and several weapons around him. His six touchdown passes are tied for the NFL lead entering Week 3, according to Dallascowboys.com.

“Baltimore cannot allow him to work comfortably from the pocket and distribute the ball on schedule,” analyst Glenn Erby wrote on Ravens Wire on September 25.

2. CeeDee Lamb, Wide Receiver

CeeDee Lamb has been Dallas’ leading receiver through two games, putting up 197 yards and three touchdowns. That production gives Baltimore another major matchup to deal with.

Erby noted that the Ravens may need to change their coverage and tackle well when Prescott finds Lamb underneath. Keeping him from turning short catches into bigger plays will be important.

3. George Pickens, Wide Receiver

George Pickens has 68 receiving yards through the first two games, but he remains another big target for Prescott on the outside.

Erby wrote that Pickens “demands attention when Prescott looks downfield.” That gives Dallas another option for attacking the Ravens through the air.

4. Jake Ferguson, Tight End

Jake Ferguson has six catches so far, with two of them ending in touchdowns. His role could become especially important near the goal line, where there is less room for defenders to recover.

Erby highlighted Ferguson because Baltimore will have little margin for error when Dallas gets close to the end zone.

5. Javonte Williams, Running Back

Javonte Williams has contributed in both phases of Dallas’ offense. He has rushed for 71 yards on 24 carries and added eight catches for 51 yards and a touchdown.

That receiving production gives Prescott another option when his first read isn't available. Erby pointed to Williams as a potential outlet for the Cowboys quarterback.

6. Quinnen Williams, Defensive Tackle

Quinnen Williams will have a role in trying to slow down Baltimore’s rushing attack. He has the ability to create problems in the middle of the Ravens’ offensive line and could make things tougher for Derrick Henry and the run game.

“Can challenge the middle of Baltimore’s offensive line,” Erby wrote.

7. Kenny Clark, Defensive Tackle

Kenny Clark gives Dallas another experienced presence in the middle of its defense. Baltimore will need to be cleaner up front after protection problems against New Orleans.

Erby pointed to the need for “cleaner communication” from the Ravens when the Cowboys attack the gaps around the center.

8. Jaishawn Barham, Linebacker

Jaishawn Barham has made an early impact as a rookie, recording 13 tackles and a forced fumble through two games.

With DeMarvion Overshown listed as out, Barham’s role becomes even more important against Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. Erby described his role as “more consequential” with Overshown unavailable.

9. Shavon Revel Jr., Cornerback

Shavon Revel Jr. could see more responsibility with Cobie Durant, Malik Hooker and P.J. Locke all listed as out.

Erby wrote that Baltimore “should test its matchups” while remaining aware of Revel’s length and ability to challenge throws. The Cowboys could therefore have plenty to handle in the secondary.

10. Brandon Aubrey, Kicker

Brandon Aubrey’s range gives Dallas another way to put points on the board. His ability to attempt long field goals can change how the Cowboys approach a possession.

Erby noted that Baltimore’s defense and special teams will have to keep Aubrey’s range in mind when dealing with field position.

Dallas enters the matchup with its passing game as a major part of the offense, while Baltimore will look to use its rushing attack against a Cowboys defense that has allowed 347 rushing yards through two games.

Written by

Debanjali Rakshit