The NFL is continuing to assess the playing surface at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, where the Cowboys are scheduled to face the Ravens on Sunday. The league has said the matchup will proceed as planned. NFL Field Director Nick Pappas told The Dallas Morning News that officials have closely monitored the field throughout the month.
Dallas defensive tackle Kenny Clark said the team will play regardless of the conditions. He previously faced traction issues on an international field in São Paulo, where he played for the Green Bay Packers against the Philadelphia Eagles two years ago. Clark described that surface as soft and hard to manage.
Eagles running back Saquon Barkley switched cleats during the game, while Clark wore shoes with seven studs for added traction.
Clark said he does not know what to expect from the Maracanã field and called the earlier surface a concern. The Cowboys are set to inspect the Rio field Saturday. Coach Brian Schottenheimer said players will have several cleat options and can choose footwear according to their preferences. No additional information about the field was provided.
