Dallas Cowboys Prepare for Tough Test Against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens
The Dallas Cowboys defense is reeling from a 44-19 loss to the New Orleans Saints in Week 2. As they prepare to host the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, the focus shifts to containing one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in NFL history: Lamar Jackson.
Linebacker Micah Parsons didn't hold back in his praise for Jackson, referring to him as "the best dual-threat quarterback in the league."
"In terms of what he has accomplished in this league, he is probably the best dual-threat quarterback in the league and in history, today," Parsons stated during an appearance at Post Malone's Dallas Cowboys-themed Raising Cane's restaurant.
The Lamar Jackson Challenge
Jackson's accolades are impressive. He is a two-time NFL MVP, a Heisman Trophy winner, and has led multiple playoff runs. Since the start of last season, Jackson has thrown for 26 touchdowns against just eight interceptions, securing a touchdown to interception ratio tied for the fourth-best in the league. Additionally, Jackson has run for at least 750 rushing yards in each of his first five NFL seasons, an NFL record for quarterbacks.
Dallas defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer also expressed his admiration for Jackson's unique skill set. "He's great. I think he is throwing the ball really well. He is an outstanding zone read runner. Outstanding scrambler. We're going to have to be on our P's and Q's," Zimmer noted.
Strategies for Containment
The challenging nature of containing Jackson isn't lost on Parsons. "With Lamar, you always got to find a way to keep him in the pocket. Don't let him get those extra runs, keep extending plays, things like that. He's a challenging guy. It's easy to say, but it's hard to do. You're going to need all 11 guys on the same page," Parsons emphasized.
Parsons suggested the possibility of deploying a spy on Jackson during critical third downs, a strategy no doubt intended to mitigate Jackson's ability to make game-altering plays with his legs. Zimmer concurred, saying, "Yeah, we'll see. I don't know. We might have to use Micah to do it. He is pretty athletic and fast."
Reflecting on Week 2
The Cowboys have some soul-searching to do following their disappointing Week 2 performance. Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs described the loss as "unacceptable," while Parsons emphasized the importance of focusing on the fundamentals. "For me, I look at my mistakes and it helps hold me accountable and push the guys throughout the week to get back to the basics and fundamentals, which is our priority," Parsons revealed.
A Team in Transition
This Dallas squad is looking to carve out a new identity. "The team this season is the newest and most diverse team I've ever been on, and we're really creating a new identity for ourselves," Parsons noted.
The Cowboys have a young defensive star in second-year linebacker DeMarvion Overshown, who showcased his speed in Week 1 against Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson. His presence will be crucial as Dallas prepares for Jackson and the Ravens.
Cuisine Connection
On a lighter note, Parsons shared his excitement about the Cowboys-themed Raising Cane's, revealing his love for the Caniac Combo with Cane's Sauce. "My first time trying Cane's was in Austin, and I was immediately hooked and started going every day. My favorite thing about Raising Cane's is the Caniac Combo and Cane's Sauce, which I would describe as a touchdown!" Parsons enthused.
He also praised Post Malone's involvement. "This Cowboys Restaurant is dope, and Post Malone is awesome, so I wouldn't expect anything less. I want to bring Trevon [Diggs] here!"
The Dallas Cowboys are under pressure to rebound after their Week 2 collapse. With the dynamic ability of Lamar Jackson and the strategic insights of their defensive experts, Sunday's matchup promises to be a pivotal contest as Dallas seeks to establish its new identity and improve upon its fundamentals.