Dallas Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens Game Preview

2024 NFL Preview: Baltimore Ravens vs. Dallas Cowboys with Betting and Fantasy Insight

Ravens Offense: Stick to the Ground Game

The Ravens, who looked dominant in the first half against the Las Vegas Raiders before losing steam, face a tough Cowboys team this week. For fantasy managers, Zay Flowers (WR) and Lamar Jackson (QB) are must-starts, as both have been key players in the Ravens’ offense. But perhaps the biggest name to watch is Derrick Henry (RB).

The Cowboys’ defense, though fierce on the edges with Micah Parsons, has struggled up the middle against the run. That presents an opportunity for Henry, as long as offensive coordinator Todd Monken keeps things simple and avoids getting too cute with the play calling. The key for Baltimore is to pound the ball up the middle, keeping the Cowboys’ defense on its heels and away from obvious pass-rush situations.

From a betting perspective, taking a prop bet on Derrick Henrys‘ rushing yards might offer solid value. With the Cowboys’ run defense being their Achilles heel, Edwards could easily hit the over on his rushing total, making this a profitable angle for bettors looking to exploit Dallas’ weakness in the trenches.

Cowboys Offense: Start Your Stars, but Tread Carefully Beyond CeeDee Lamb

On the Cowboys’ side, it’s all about their key offensive stars. Dak Prescott (QB) and Lamb (WR) are automatic starts in any fantasy lineup, but after them, it gets tricky. Brandon Cooks (WR) was a disappointment last week, and while he remains a deep threat, he’s going to be a touchdown-dependent fantasy play. Cooks is capable of pulling off a long bomb, but if you’re starting him, you’re banking on that one big play, which might not come against a Ravens defense that excels in the secondary.

For a safer bet, Dallas tight end Jake Ferguson (TE) is becoming the team’s second-best receiving option after Lamb. If Ferguson is back and healthy, he’s worth a start, especially against a Ravens defense that has occasionally struggled against athletic tight ends. Ferguson offers a reliable floor and more consistent opportunities than Cooks.

Betting Angle: Ravens’ Rushing Attack and Cowboys’ Passing Game Props

This game will come down to which team can execute their offensive game plan better. The Ravens should dominate the ground game, while the Cowboys will need to rely on Prescott and Lamb to attack Baltimore’s secondary.

For bettors, a balanced approach works best:

• Betting on Henrys’ rushing yards over is a great play, given the Cowboys’ inability to stop the run.
• Lamb’s receiving yards prop is also worth targeting, as Prescott will likely need to rely on him heavily in this matchup. With Lamb as the focal point, he should easily surpass his yardage total.

Additionally, consider a player prop for Ferguson to score a touchdown or hit the over on receptions. With the Ravens likely to focus their defensive attention on Lamb, Ferguson should have opportunities to be Prescott’s second option.

Final Thoughts: Play the Stars, Bet on the Matchups

The Ravens vs. Cowboys game has plenty of fantasy and betting potential. For fantasy football, you’re starting the usual suspects—Jackson, Flowers, Lamb, and Prescott—without question. Henry is a must-start against a weak Dallas-run defense, while Ferguson could provide value in deeper leagues.

For betting, focus on the over for Henrys’ rushing yards, Lamb’s receiving yards, and Ferguson as a touchdown or receptions prop. The Ravens should win the ground battle, and the Cowboys will need to lean on their passing game to keep things close.

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.