The network layer is more intelligent than the data-link layer mainly because the network layer has a broader view of the network than the data-link layer. The data-link layer (Ethernet, WiFI, etc.) talks about network cards, links between them and local networks. The network layer (mainly IP) talks about IP addresses and how hosts must route a network packet to achieve an end-to-end communication.

And Also,

In OSI model Network layer is responsible for ‘source-to-destination’ delivery of a packet possibly across the multiple networks( links ),whereas the data link layer oversees the delivery of the packets btw ‘two’ systems on same network.