AUSTIN — Concerns over field conditions and player safety take center stage as the Dallas Cowboys prepare to face the Baltimore Ravens in Sunday's South American international matchup. Both the Cowboys and Ravens have a 1-1 record and are looking to stay competitive in their respective divisions.
On Talk 1370’s ‘The Thing About Sports’ hosts Brian Fitzgerald and Chad Hastings expressed their apprehensions over the field conditions in Rio de Janeiro, citing past international games that suffered from footing issues.
Brian spoke about the impact on the players. “A soccer pitch and an NFL field are vastly different things, and I think that that is one of the biggest concerns. Obviously, with travel on top of that, this is in the middle of their schedule. I don't know, I have such mixed emotions about these travel games…I don't think it's fair to the players.”
"The last thing you want to see is these two teams have to go all the way to Rio with stars like Lamar Jackson and Dak Prescott and come out of it where names get hurt." Chad noted during the broadcast.
A wave of critical roster setbacks continues to impact the NFL ahead of the upcoming slate. Leading the injury updates, Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels re-dislocated his left elbow but avoided the injured reserve list in hopes of a swift return, Marcus Mariota will step in under center during his absence as they host the Seahawks. Meanwhile, New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart is sidelined for 2 to 4 weeks with an MCL sprain, paving the way for Jameis Winston to get the start against the Titans.
Around the league, additional key injuries are piling up heading into Week 3: Houston Texans wide receiver Nico Collins is doubtful, San Francisco 49ers pass rusher Nick Bosa is expected to miss multiple weeks with a calf strain, and Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua remains sidelined with a hip injury.
Listen to ‘The Thing About Sports’ every Saturday at 9am on Talk 1370!
