Why Roquan Smith could be key to the Ravens stopping Dak Prescott
Roquan Smith’s work against the run and Dallas’ short passing game could help the Ravens limit possessions in their Week 3 game in Rio
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith possesses an intensity on defense that is unparalleled. In the team's Week 3 game against the Dallas Cowboys, Smith will not back down in his fervor. During the previous encounter with the New Orleans Saints, the Ravens' front seven restricted opponents to a mere 65 rushing yards. Smith and his teammates will be tasked with holding Cowboys running back Javonte Williams accountable, as well as mounting a potent pass rush against quarterback Dak Prescott.
Both teams will need to contend with the humid conditions in Rio de Janeiro, which could lead to dehydration and fatigue. The Ravens defense cannot afford to stall on the field for extended periods; thus, they must keep their defensive intensity high for 64 plays. Statistically, the Cowboys present a more explosive threat than the Saints.
Therefore, Smith must be meticulous in his pre-snap reads and will be relied upon to disrupt Prescott's underneath passes. Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson should be on Smith's radar, and Smith will aim to curb Prescott's ability to scramble for yards. Ultimately, Smith must showcase the strength of the 2026 Ravens defense by defeating the Cowboys in Week 3 and preventing a scoring explosion in the game.
This report first appeared on Ravens Wire: Why Roquan Smith could be key to the Ravens stopping Dak Prescott.
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