New Orleans edges Dallas 27-24 in a gritty preseason finale where Zach Wilson’s game-winning drive overcame Sam Howell’s two touchdown passes.
The New Orleans Saints concluded their 2026 preseason schedule with a dramatic 27-24 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on August 29. The win improves New Orleans’ record to 1-2, while dropping the Cowboys to 2-1. The decisive factor was a late-game drive led by Saints quarterback Zach Wilson, who executed efficient short-yardage passing to secure the three-point margin of victory after the Cowboys had built a lead through balanced offensive production.
New Orleans Saints Performance
The Saints displayed resilience in their final tune-up, overcoming significant roster turnover and injury concerns. Quarterback Zach Wilson was the catalyst for the offense, completing 9 of 12 passes for 93 yards. Although he did not throw a touchdown pass, his precision in critical moments allowed New Orleans to maintain possession and eventually take the lead. Running back Audric Estime provided ground support, carrying the ball four times for 46 yards, helping to control the clock during key stretches.
On the receiving end, Ronnie Bell emerged as the primary target, leading the team with six receptions for 65 yards. His ability to find soft spots in coverage was vital for Wilson’s success. Defensively, linebacker/deep end Isaiah Stalbird was the standout performer, recording eight total tackles and one sack. His dual-threat capability on defense highlighted the depth issues elsewhere on the roster, particularly given the heavy injury list facing New Orleans heading into the regular season.
The Saints’ scoring came largely from kicker Daniel Carlson, who converted a 38-yard field goal, and a rushing touchdown by Zamir White from 11 yards out. These points proved essential in a game decided by just three points. The team now faces a challenging path forward with several key players landing on Injured Reserve, including Devin Moore, Marist Liufau, Kelvin Gilliam Jr., Jaylan Ford, Jordyn Tyson, Moliki Matavao, and Ty Chandler. Mason Tipton is listed as Out, while Tyler Guyton and Jonathan Bullard remain questionable.
Dallas Cowboys Performance
The Cowboys showcased flashes of offensive explosiveness but ultimately fell short against a resilient Saints squad. Quarterback Sam Howell was efficient in limited action, completing 12 of 18 passes for 155 yards and throwing two touchdowns. His connection with wide receiver Jordan Hudson was particularly potent; Hudson caught four passes for 97 yards, including a crucial 26-yard touchdown reception that kept Dallas in contention throughout the night.
The running game was spearheaded by Phil Mafah, who rushed 12 times for 46 yards. Additional pressure on the scoreboard came from rushing touchdowns by Barion Brown (7 yards) and Spencer Rattler (8 yards), demonstrating the versatility of the Cowboys’ backup skill positions. Kicker Brandon Aubrey contributed significantly as well, making field goals from 49, 51, and 58 yards, showcasing strong leg strength even in defeat.
Defensively, the Cowboys struggled to generate consistent disruption. Outside linebacker Sam Williams recorded one sack, but the unit generally failed to contain Wilson’s late drives. Linebacker Trikweze Bridges led the team with seven total tackles, highlighting individual effort in a collective defensive performance that could not hold off the Saints’ final surge. The loss leaves Dallas at 2-1 as they finalize their roster, which includes integrating new talent like offensive tackle Broderick Jones, acquired from the Steelers.
Turning Point
The game’s momentum shifted in the final minutes when Zach Wilson orchestrated a methodical drive down the field. While Sam Howell had thrown two touchdown passes and Brandon Aubrey had connected on multiple long field goals, it was Wilson’s completion efficiency and Audric Estime’s timely runs that allowed New Orleans to score the go-ahead touchdown via Zamir White. The Cowboys’ inability to stop the run or pressure Wilson on third downs proved fatal, allowing the Saints to seal the 27-24 win.
What It Means
This result has immediate implications for both teams as they prepare for the regular season. For the Saints, the victory validates Zach Wilson’s potential as a reliable option, though questions remain about the backup quarterback position and the impact of numerous injuries on IR. The Saints are now focused on finalizing their 53-man roster.
For the Cowboys, the loss underscores the need for greater defensive consistency. Despite Howell’s efficiency and Hudson’s big-play ability, the defense lacked the penetration needed to close out a close game. With roster cuts looming, both teams must address depth concerns before the regular season opener.
- Zach Wilson completed 9/12 passes for 93 yards, leading the game-winning drive without a touchdown.
- Sam Howell threw for 155 yards and 2 TDs, connecting with Jordan Hudson for a 97-yard day.
- Isaiah Stalbird led all defenders with 8 tackles and 1 sack for New Orleans.
- Brandon Aubrey made three field goals for Dallas, including a 58-yarder, but couldn’t secure the win.
- Both teams face significant injury challenges, with multiple players placed on Injured Reserve.
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