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NFL Expert Picks Today: Baltimore Ravens vs. Dallas Cowboys - Game Analysis

The Baltimore Ravens (0-2) head to AT&T Stadium to take on the Dallas Cowboys (1-1) in Week 3 of the 2024 NFL season. This matchup kicks off at 1:25 PM ET on Sunday, September 22, 2024, and will be televised on FOX. With both teams aiming to rebound from recent struggles, this game is critical for Baltimore to avoid falling to 0-3, while Dallas looks to get back on track after an inconsistent start.

Game Odds

Team	Spread	Total (O/U)	Moneyline
Baltimore Ravens (0-2)	-1 (-110)	O 47.5 (-105)	-115
Dallas Cowboys (1-1)	+1 (-110)	U 47.5 (-115)	-105

Team Analysis

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens find themselves in unfamiliar territory at 0-2, with close losses to the Chiefs and Raiders to open the season. Lamar Jackson has been the focal point of the offense, leading the team not only in passing (520 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT) but also in rushing with 167 yards on 21 carries. However, the offense has struggled to consistently move the ball in crucial moments, and Jackson has been under pressure behind an offensive line that is missing tackle Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu.

The Ravens' defense has been serviceable, but they’ve had issues getting off the field in key situations. Injuries to key players like cornerback Nate Wiggins and linebacker David Ojabo have tested the depth of their defense. They’ll need to tighten up to contain Dallas’ versatile attack led by Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys, coming off a blowout loss to the Saints in Week 2, will be eager to bounce back at home. Dak Prescott has thrown for 472 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions through two games, but the offense has been inconsistent. Ezekiel Elliott has managed just 56 rushing yards on 16 carries, and the Cowboys will need to establish their ground game to take pressure off Prescott. Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (151 yards, 1 TD) remains the most reliable target, but the offense hasn’t clicked as expected.

Defensively, the Cowboys have been hit or miss, allowing 44 points in their Week 2 loss. Injuries to defensive tackle Mazi Smith and tight end John Stephens Jr. are concerning, particularly against a Ravens team that thrives on Jackson’s mobility. Dallas will need a stronger showing from its defense to slow down Baltimore’s multifaceted offense.

Coaches Analysis

John Harbaugh (Baltimore Ravens)

John Harbaugh is one of the most experienced coaches in the league, but he finds his team in a tough spot with an 0-2 start. Harbaugh has a track record of getting the most out of his team in difficult situations, and his ability to rally the Ravens will be key in this matchup. He’ll need to craft a game plan that allows Jackson to exploit a Cowboys defense that has struggled to contain mobile quarterbacks.

Mike McCarthy (Dallas Cowboys)

Mike McCarthy enters this game under pressure, especially after Dallas’ embarrassing Week 2 loss. His team has shown flashes of potential, but inconsistency, particularly on offense, has been a concern. McCarthy will need to balance the offense and get Elliott going, while ensuring Prescott makes smart decisions against a Ravens defense that can capitalize on turnovers.

Recent Performance

Baltimore Ravens

• Week 1: Lost 27-20 vs Kansas City Chiefs
• Week 2: Lost 26-23 vs Las Vegas Raiders

Baltimore’s first two games have both been close, but they’ve fallen short in key moments. The offense has looked out of sync at times, and while Jackson’s individual play has been strong, the Ravens need more from their supporting cast, particularly in the passing game. On defense, they’ve allowed some big plays, which have proven costly in both losses.

Dallas Cowboys

• Week 1: Won 33-17 vs Cleveland Browns
• Week 2: Lost 44-19 vs New Orleans Saints

The Cowboys opened the season with a dominant win over Cleveland, but their Week 2 loss to New Orleans exposed several weaknesses. Dallas’ defense was shredded by the Saints, and their offense failed to keep pace. Consistency will be key as they aim to get back on track against the Ravens.

Head-to-Head Comparison

These two teams last met in 2020, when the Ravens came away with a 34-17 victory. While both teams have undergone changes since then, Baltimore’s defense has traditionally had success against Dallas’ offense. In this matchup, Baltimore’s offensive versatility with Jackson gives them an edge, especially against a Cowboys defense that struggled last week.

ATS Records

• Baltimore Ravens: 0-2 ATS in 2024
• Dallas Cowboys: 1-1 ATS in 2024

Baltimore has failed to cover the spread in both of their games this season, while Dallas is 1-1 ATS. The Cowboys covered easily in their Week 1 win but failed to cover in their blowout loss in Week 2. Baltimore, despite their struggles, is a slight road favorite heading into this game.

Betting Stats and Trends

• The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Baltimore’s last 5 road games.
• The Ravens are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games overall.
• The Cowboys are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 home games.
• The total has gone OVER in 5 of Dallas' last 7 games at home.
• Baltimore is 4-2 SU in their last 6 games against NFC teams.

Prediction