Lamar Jackson, Ravens Say Rio Field Conditions Won't Be Their Focus
Ahead of the NFL's first regular-season game in Brazil, Baltimore's quarterback says the team is concentrating on preparation rather than the state of the Maracana Stadium pitch.
The Baltimore Ravens are preparing to face the Dallas Cowboys at Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, in what will be the National Football League's first regular-season game held in Brazil. Speaking a day before kickoff, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson said he is not focusing on the condition of the playing field at the stadium, which is more commonly used for soccer.
Jackson's remarks suggest the team is approaching the international matchup much like any other regular-season contest, with the emphasis placed on game preparation rather than on the unfamiliar surface or setting.
The game forms part of the NFL's broader effort in recent years to expand the sport's international footprint, following games previously staged in London, Germany and Mexico. Brazil's addition to that slate marks the league's first venture into South America for a regular-season contest.
Further details on the Ravens' preparations and the matchup itself are expected to emerge as the team completes its travel and pregame activities in Rio de Janeiro.
Sources
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
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