Prescott Unbothered by Maracanã Pitch Talk Ahead of Cowboys' Brazil Game
The short version
- Dak Prescott says he is not concerned about the criticized playing surface at Maracanã Stadium
- The Cowboys face the Ravens there in a Week 3 international game
- Prescott has 454 passing yards, six touchdowns and one interception this season
- Dallas enters the game at 1-1
- Other players and officials have also voiced support for the venue
The Dallas quarterback says he trusts his equipment and would play anywhere, dismissing criticism of the Rio de Janeiro surface before Sunday's game against Baltimore.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott dismissed criticism of the playing surface at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, where his team is preparing for a Week 3 international game against the Baltimore Ravens.
The Cowboys traveled to Brazil ahead of the matchup and practiced at the stadium to get familiar with the setting. Since their arrival, questions about the condition of the pitch have grown, with many criticizing whether it is suitable for an NFL game.
Maracanã has previously drawn criticism from soccer players over poor playing conditions. The league has defended its choice of the venue, and some have raised concerns that players are staying quiet on the topic. When reporters asked for his view, Prescott did not hesitate to give it.
Speaking to reporters, with comments shared by The Athletic's Jon Machota, Prescott said little thought goes into the issue for him. "If it's the surface we're gonna play on, let's go do it," he said, adding that if the league allows the game to be played, the field is good enough. He noted he has played on worse where he is from, including being tackled on concrete, and welcomed the soft grass.
Prescott enters the game with strong passing numbers, having completed 73.8% of his passes for 454 yards, six touchdowns and one interception this season. His touchdown total is tied for the league lead. His rushing production has not been as notable as other parts of his game.
Other players from both the Cowboys and the Ravens have spoken similarly about the pitch, and team and league officials have backed the decision to use the stadium. Players reportedly trust the league to look after their interests, though Prescott's history of lower-leg injuries means his safety remains a talking point heading into the game.
The Cowboys sit at 1-1 after two games, and fans will be watching whether Prescott can build early chemistry with receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. Members of the NFL Players Association are expected to keep an eye on the surface situation leading up to kickoff.
The Ravens visit the Cowboys at Maracanã Stadium on Sunday, September 27, at 4:25 PM EDT, with the game airing on CBS.
