The Cowboys are set to play the Ravens on Sunday at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, and the NFL has said the matchup will go forward as scheduled. League officials have been closely reviewing the field during the month, NFL Field Director Nick Pappas told The Dallas Morning News.
Kenny Clark, a Cowboys defensive tackle, said he is uncertain what the Rio surface will be like but pointed to his experience in São Paulo two years ago with the Green Bay Packers against the Philadelphia Eagles. He described that field as soft and hard to manage.
Eagles running back Saquon Barkley switched cleats during the game, while Clark wore shoes with seven studs to help maintain traction. Clark said he would play no matter the field conditions.
Dallas will inspect the Maracanã surface Saturday. Coach Brian Schottenheimer said the team plans to carry several types of cleats, with each player permitted to choose footwear according to personal preference. No additional information about the field's condition was provided.
