NFL Premium Review: Cowboys vs. Ravens in Week 13

1. Lamar Jackson’s unique contributions are the key for Baltimore to make the playoffs

Baltimore is a talented team all around and can win games in different ways, especially when Lamar Jackson is playing to his full potential. Unfortunately for them, the Ravens have faced more bumps in the road than most teams have this season and it’s had an adverse effect on them. BAL faced a daunting task in last week’s loss without almost all its offensive starters but bounced back in Jackson’s return. Down the stretch, their MVP quarterback will have to play like it again if they want any shot at the playoffs. If they go on a run to clinch a spot, any AFC team could be on upset alert, especially if they have a weak run defense.

2. Baltimore’s deep running game can control its playoff destiny

The Baltimore Ravens proved once again why they have the potential for the best run game in the NFL. After gashing the Cowboys for a combined 294 yards, Baltimore made a statement. Mark Ingram has proven himself to be solid downhill runner, while Gus Edwards provides his team with a good 1-2 punch that can wear out defenses. Now with rookie J.K. Dobbins starting to get involved more and Lamar Jackson’s unique ability to scramble, this Baltimore team has as much depth and rushing threats as anyone and a scheme that bullies their way for yards and first downs. This is the time of the year where they can thrive with that formula. 

3. Even in the awful NFC East, the Cowboys should focus on next season now 

In a highly atypical year for the NFL, America’s Team has had the misfortune of a lost season after Dak Prescott went down with a severe ankle injury early on to keep him sidelined for the rest of 2020 along with an unprecedented amount of significant injuries. Somehow and some way though, the Cowboys managed to stay in the playoff hunt longer than most thought they would thanks to being in one of the NFL’s all-time weakest divisions.

As the season reaches its final quarter however, WAS and NYG continue to surge while DAL and PHI are crumbling. With just four weeks left in the regular season, three wins and no real answer at QB, it’s time for Dallas to pack it in and face the reality of its situation by looking towards the future when they are more legitimate contenders. Starting younger players and giving them play time to evaluate whether there will be future needs at those positions should be the focus for them the rest of the season.