The NFL has been closely examining the playing surface at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro throughout the month, according to NFL Field Director Nick Pappas, who spoke with The Dallas Morning News. The league has said Sunday’s Cowboys-Ravens game will go ahead as planned.
Dallas will inspect the field Saturday. Coach Brian Schottenheimer said the Cowboys will have multiple cleat styles available, with players choosing footwear according to their individual preferences. The team has not received further details about the surface’s condition.
Kenny Clark, a Cowboys defensive tackle, said the team will participate regardless of the field. He previously encountered traction issues at an international game in São Paulo two years ago, when he played for the Green Bay Packers against the Philadelphia Eagles. Clark described that surface as soft and challenging to manage.
Eagles running back Saquon Barkley switched cleats during the game, while Clark wore shoes with seven studs for added grip. Clark said he does not know what the Maracanã field will be like but considers the earlier surface a concern.
