The NFL says Sunday's Cowboys-Ravens game at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro will go ahead as scheduled, while league officials continue assessing the playing surface. NFL Field Director Nick Pappas told The Dallas Morning News that the field has remained under close league supervision throughout the month.
Kenny Clark, a defensive tackle, said Dallas will play regardless of the conditions. He has experience with traction issues at an international game, having played in São Paulo two years ago with the Green Bay Packers against the Philadelphia Eagles. Clark described that field as soft and challenging to manage.
During the game, Eagles running back Saquon Barkley switched cleats, while Clark wore shoes with seven studs for added grip. Clark said he does not know what the Rio surface will be like, but the earlier field remains a concern.
Dallas is set to inspect the Maracanã surface Saturday. Coach Brian Schottenheimer said the Cowboys will have several cleat types available, with players choosing based on personal preference. No additional information about the field's condition was provided.