Ravens' Run Defense Poses Major Test for Cowboys
Baltimore's run defense has allowed just 83.5 rushing yards per game, while Dallas averages only 67.5 on the ground. The Cowboys' struggling running game places additional pressure on quarterback Dak Prescott. This matchup highlights a significant disparity between the two units.
Baltimore’s front seven has been a wall, surrendering just 83.5 rushing yards per game—a mark that ranks among the league’s best. Dallas, meanwhile, has managed only 67.5 yards on the ground, a figure that underscores a persistent inability to establish any push up front. That gap forces the Cowboys’ offense to lean heavily on Dak Prescott, who must carry the attack against a defense built to stop the run and pressure the quarterback.
The contrast is stark: one unit thrives on stopping the run, the other struggles to start it. For Dallas, every third-and-short becomes a test of will, and every failed carry adds more weight to Prescott’s shoulders. Baltimore can stack the box and dare the Cowboys to beat them through the air, while Dallas has no easy answer on the ground. This mismatch could define the game’s tempo and dictate how often Prescott drops back.
This matchup could shape playoff narratives and fan expectations, as a dominant run defense often exposes a one-dimensional offense. Cowboys supporters may see increased pressure on Prescott as a referendum on his ability to carry the team, while Ravens fans might view the disparity as a sign of defensive superiority. Broadcasters and analysts could use this to frame broader debates about roster construction, but the immediate impact is on game-day strategy and the emotional stakes for both fan bases.