Ravens Beat Cowboys 37-30, Recap and Thoughts
Aug 16, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) fumbles the handoff from quarterback Tony Romo (9) while defended by Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Courtney Upshaw (91) in the first quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
The roof was closed at AT&T Stadium on a hot Saturday night that saw the Ravens beat Cowboys 37-30. Expectations were growing for both teams as starters were playing more snaps today for the second preseason game. On the Cowboys’ opening drive, there was a botched exchange between Romo and Murray. The ball hit the ground, and Courtney Upshaw scooped it up and took the ball 26 yards for a touchdown. Dallas would answer on their next possession as Dez Bryant beat Dominique Franks for a 31 yard score to even tie the game. On the ensueing kickoff, Deonte Thompson sprinted untouched between great blocking for a whopping 108 yard return for a touchdown. That would be one of the last bright spots for the Ravens’ starters today.
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The Ravens offense had a horrific resemblence to the unit from last season. Flacco only threw for 4 yards until the team’s third offensive possession. Bernard Pierce and Ray Rice had efficient running plays but the passing was abysmal. Penalties were the only reason that the Ravens sustained drives. Flacco finally put some passes together on his third drive, lobbing a pass to Torrey Smith for a touchdown. To make matters worse, the defense had trouble containing Brandon Weeden as well. He led several promising drives with the front seven of the Ravens unable to stop the run and intermediate passing game. However, the Ravens were able to make a stand when needed and only give up a field goal to the Cowboys’ second unit.
Deonte Thompson might have earned himself a roster spot after his strong performance returning kicks. C.J. Mosley had another solid outing with 5 tackles; one saving a major gain on a screen to Murray. There was no separation in the battle for nickel corner. Webb, Smith, and Jackson were not suited up for the game which gave a great opportunity for the other CBs. Chykie Brown was beat on several occasions, and the one tip he had was the result of a poor throw from Weeden. Dominique Franks got burned by Dez Bryant and did not show any improvement against backup WRs. The Ravens may sign a veteran like Asante Samuel if no one can show the ability to play well in coverage.