Week 3 NFL Picks: Cowboys vs. Ravens in Brazil Headlines Slate

As the NFL continues its ambitious international expansion, Week 3 of the 2026 season brings a marquee matchup to Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Maracanã Stadium, where the Dallas Cowboys face the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, this game not only showcases two of the league’s most marketable teams but also raises concerns about field conditions that could impact the high-powered offenses.

Turf Concerns in Rio

The NFL’s field director addressed the turf at Maracanã this week, telling ESPN that the league isn’t concerned, but that doesn’t guarantee a pristine surface. Rio has endured heavy rain over the past six weeks, and soccer players have voiced complaints about the pitch. For two fast-paced offenses, the turf could be a significant factor. The Cowboys’ defense, which allowed 389 yards in Week 2 even after Washington lost Jayden Daniels, could use all the help it can get. Dallas’s offense should be effective, though the poor field might slightly hinder its explosiveness. The bigger worry remains the defense.

Ravens’ Offense vs. Cowboys’ Defense

Baltimore’s offense faces uncertainty if receiver Zay Flowers can’t play through a hamstring injury. The Ravens will likely be cautious given the turf, but Lamar Jackson’s playmaking ability should exploit a Dallas defense that remains suspect. That defensive vulnerability is why the Ravens -3.5 is the pick. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, this matchup has the makings of a phenomenal Sunday showcase, provided the conditions don’t interfere.

Week 3 Picks Against the Spread

Here are the rest of the picks for Week 3, with analysis from Vulius Sports:

• Packers (-5) over Falcons: Green Bay is banged up, especially on the offensive line, but Atlanta’s Michael Penix Jr. hasn’t been impressive and is coming off a long layoff.
• Jaguars (-3) over Patriots: Jacksonville faded in Denver’s altitude but remains the better team. New England’s offensive struggles continue.
• Giants (-2.5) over Titans: Backup quarterback Jameis Winston gives New York a short-term boost, while Tennessee’s Week 2 performance against Philadelphia may be a mirage.
• Chiefs (-11.5) over Dolphins: Miami has shown nothing to suggest it can compete, making Kansas City a rare double-digit road favorite worth backing.
• Bengals (-3.5) over Steelers: Pittsburgh’s offense has been anemic, and Cincinnati’s defense looks improved with Dexter Lawrence II emerging as a Defensive Player of the Year dark horse.
• Commanders (+7) over Seahawks: With Jayden Daniels likely out, Marcus Mariota leads Washington, but ugly underdogs cover often, and Seattle may overlook this one.
• Chargers (+7) over Bills: The line jumped from Bills -3 to -7, but a full touchdown is a lot for a desperate Chargers team entering a brutal stretch.
• Panthers (-2.5) over Browns: Bryce Young’s hot start could continue against a Cleveland defense that was torched by Jacksonville in Week 1.
• Texans (-2.5) over Colts: Houston’s defense was solid last week, and the offense should rebound against a Colts unit that has allowed 1,029 yards in two games.
• Jets (+6.5) over Lions: New York has been competitive, and Detroit’s defense may allow a backdoor cover.
• Buccaneers (+1.5) over Vikings: Minnesota blitzes over 80% of dropbacks, but Tampa Bay is desperate at 0-2 and should respond after an embarrassing loss.
• Cardinals (+8.5) over 49ers: Arizona won as a 9.5-point underdog in Week 1 and should move the ball against a 49ers defense not named Seahawks.
• Saints (-3) over Raiders: New Orleans is a two-point conversion away from starting 2-0, and its impressive start warrants respect.
• Rams (-2.5) over Broncos: Los Angeles looked dominant Monday night, and Denver has played only two good quarters all season.
• Eagles (-4.5) over Bears: Chicago may be without Caleb Williams, and even if he plays, his hamstring injury limits mobility. Philadelphia’s defense is too talented.

Last week: 7-9; Season to date: 14-18.

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