**Baltimore Ravens Defeat Dallas Cowboys Despite Cooper Rush’s Turnovers in Return to AT&T Stadium**
The Baltimore Ravens secured a hard-fought victory over the Dallas Cowboys in a game marked by strong defensive stands, key offensive plays, and costly turnovers from backup quarterback Cooper Rush in his return to AT&T Stadium. Despite Rush’s struggles, the Cowboys kept the game competitive, but the Ravens’ resilience and timely execution proved decisive in a 27-20 win.
### **A Defensive Battle Early On**
From the opening drive, both defenses set the tone. The Ravens, led by star linebacker Roquan Smith and safety Kyle Hamilton, applied consistent pressure on Rush, forcing quick throws and disrupting Dallas’ rhythm. Meanwhile, the Cowboys’ defense, featuring Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence, made life difficult for Lamar Jackson, limiting Baltimore’s rushing attack early.
The first quarter saw both teams exchange punts before the Ravens struck first with a Justin Tucker field goal. Dallas responded with a methodical drive, but a critical sack by Justin Madubuike forced a long field goal attempt, which Brandon Aubrey converted to tie the game.
### **Cooper Rush’s Costly Mistakes**
Cooper Rush, filling in for an injured Dak Prescott, had a mixed performance. While he showed poise on some drives, his two interceptions proved pivotal. The first came late in the second quarter when Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey jumped a sideline route, returning the pick deep into Dallas territory. Baltimore capitalized with a touchdown pass from Jackson to Zay Flowers, taking a 10-3 lead.
Rush’s second interception was even more damaging. Early in the third quarter, with the Cowboys driving into Ravens territory, safety Marcus Williams undercut a pass intended for CeeDee Lamb, setting up another Baltimore scoring drive. Jackson connected with Mark Andrews for a touchdown, extending the lead to 17-6.
Despite the turnovers, Rush showed resilience, leading a late third-quarter touchdown drive capped by a Tony Pollard rushing score. However, the Ravens answered immediately, with Jackson orchestrating a 75-yard drive ending in a Gus Edwards touchdown run.
### **Lamar Jackson’s Composure Shines**
While the Cowboys’ defense contained Jackson’s rushing ability (holding him to just 45 yards on the ground), he made critical plays through the air. Finishing with 220 passing yards and two touchdowns, Jackson avoided turnovers and extended drives with key third-down conversions. His chemistry with Andrews (7 catches, 89 yards, 1 TD) and Flowers (5 catches, 62 yards, 1 TD) kept the Cowboys’ secondary guessing.
Dallas had opportunities late, cutting the deficit to 24-20 after another Pollard touchdown and a two-point conversion. However, Baltimore’s defense held firm on the final drive, with Odafe Oweh sacking Rush on fourth down to seal the game. A late Tucker field goal provided the final margin.
### **Key Takeaways**
– **Turnovers Decide the Game:** Rush’s two interceptions led directly to 14 Ravens points, the difference in a tight contest.
– **Ravens’ Defense Steps Up:** Baltimore’s secondary and pass rush consistently disrupted Dallas’ offense.
– **Cowboys’ Resilience:** Despite Rush’s struggles, Dallas stayed competitive, showcasing their defensive strength.
– **Jackson’s Efficiency:** The Ravens’ QB made just enough plays to secure the win without taking unnecessary risks.
### **Looking Ahead**
For the Ravens, this win reinforces their status as AFC contenders, with Jackson playing efficient football and the defense dominating when needed. Meanwhile, the Cowboys must hope for Prescott’s quick return, as Rush’s limitations were evident in crucial moments.
In the end, Baltimore’s ability to capitalize on mistakes proved the difference, handing Dallas a tough home loss despite a valiant effort from their defense.
