Dallas Cowboys 2024 opponent preview: 2 Ravens to keep an eye on
For much of the 2023 season, the Baltimore Ravens looked to be one of the best teams in the NFL. A team filled with offensive playmakers, tough defensive talent, and a veteran coach, they looked like a juggernaut at times.
They finished 13-4 in the regular season, quarterback Lamar Jackson won his second MVP award, followed by playing in the AFC Championship Game, It was a bit of a surprise that Jackson and Co. weren’t able to get over the hump and make the Super Bowl.
Ravens File
2023 Record: 13-4 (AFC Championship Game appearance)
Last Meeting: 12/8/2020 – 34-17 Ravens win. (Baltimore leads all-time series 5-1)
Head Coach: John Harbaugh (172-111 as head coach)
Key Additions: RB Derrick Henry, WR Deonte Harty, OT Josh Jones
Key Departures: LB Patrick Queen, S Geno Stone, RB Gus Edwards
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Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images
Over the last few years, we have seen high-level linebacker play disrupt the Cowboys’ offense and completely throw them off track in a game. San Francisco 49ers LB Fred Warner comes to mind most frequently, but Ravens’ LB Roquan Smith also has that ability.
Smith is smart, athletic, and plays the game fearlessly. He plays the run physically and can make plays in the passing game. In a lot of ways, he is this NFL’s version of a textbook linebacker.
Dallas will need to be aware of his presence throughout the afternoon. As they try to get back on track after a tough Week 2, finding a way to neutralize Smith on Sunday could be a massive key to the outcome of this game.
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Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images
As far as budding stars go, Isaiah Likely is almost in full bloom early in 2024. The young tight end from Coastal Carolina has done nothing but make plays when given the chance and looks to be a true highlight for this Ravens offense that already features Mark Andrews at the position.
He’s outstandingly athletic, but plays physically and with a mean streak in the run game. When he has the football in his hand, he is always looking to score and can do so from anywhere.
Dallas will have their hands full with Jackson and Derrick Henry, but they cannot afford to lose sight of Likely on Sunday, or it could get ugly for this Cowboys defense once again.