Jaxson Dart threw for three touchdowns as the New York Giants edged the Dallas Cowboys 28-20 in a season-opening NFC East showdown that shifted the divisional hierarchy.
The New York Giants defeated the Dallas Cowboys 28-20 on Sunday, Sept. 14, securing their first win of the 2026 NFL season. The victory moves the Giants to 1-0 and places them in sole possession of first place in the NFC East, while dropping the Cowboys to 0-1 and third in the division standings. The decisive factor was a highly efficient offensive performance by Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, who outpaced Dallas starter Dak Prescott with superior completion percentages and three touchdown passes, coupled with a defense that consistently disrupted the Cowboys’ scoring drives.
Giants Offensive Efficiency and Defensive Pressure
Jaxson Dart delivered a masterclass in precision passing, completing 23 of 29 attempts for 230 yards and three touchdowns. His accuracy allowed the Giants to control the tempo and exploit mismatches throughout the game. Wide receiver Isaiah Likely emerged as the primary weapon, recording eight receptions for 78 yards and two crucial touchdowns, including late scores that effectively sealed the victory. The ground game provided necessary balance, led by Cam Skattebo’s 18 carries for 81 yards and one rushing touchdown. On the defensive side, Tremaine Edmunds anchored the unit with eight total tackles, helping to limit big plays and maintain pressure on the Cowboys’ backfield.
Cowboys Struggle with Turnovers and Injuries
Dak Prescott attempted to keep Dallas in contention, finishing with 22 completions on 34 attempts for 175 yards and two touchdowns. However, an interception and missed opportunities hindered the offense’s ability to close the gap. Running back Javonte Williams contributed on both sides of the ball, rushing for 41 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, while also catching a 17-yard touchdown pass from Prescott. Despite the scoring play, the Cowboys failed on a subsequent two-point conversion, leaving four points unaccounted for on the board. CeeDee Lamb added five receptions for 44 yards and a one-yard touchdown catch, but the team’s overall offensive output was stifled by defensive lapses and critical errors.
Turning Point: Late Scoring Drives
The game’s trajectory shifted significantly in the second half when the Giants capitalized on sustained drives. After exchanging early scores, New York took control through a combination of Dart’s timely throws and Skattebo’s physical running style. Isaiah Likely’s two touchdown receptions were pivotal; the first came on a 15-yard connection, and the second on a 2-yard score that extended the lead. These moments, combined with Devin Singletary’s nine-yard touchdown reception, created a cushion that the Cowboys could not overcome. Dallas managed to respond with a Javonte Williams one-yard rush, but the missed two-point attempt after his earlier 17-yard reception highlighted the margin for error that ultimately cost them the contest.
What It Means for the NFC East
This result reshapes the early landscape of the NFC East. The Giants, now 1-0, have established themselves as legitimate contenders, joining the Jets as the only New York teams to start 1-0 since 2009. Their performance suggests a stable transition under new leadership, with co-owner Carolyn Tisch Blodgett confirming the transfer of ownership shares is complete. For the Cowboys, the loss exposes significant vulnerabilities. Beyond the on-field struggles, the team is managing a mounting injury list. Key players including Roy Robertson-Harris, Tyler Smith, and Malik Davis are on Injured Reserve, while starting linebacker DeMarvion Overshown is questionable and safety Malik Hooker is doubtful. Coach Brian Schottenheimer faces immediate challenges as he prepares for the next matchup against the Washington Commanders.
- Giants QB Jaxson Dart completed 23/29 passes for 230 yards and 3 TDs in the season opener.
- Cowboys missed a two-point conversion after Javonte Williams’ 17-yard touchdown reception.
- Isaiah Likely recorded 8 receptions and 2 touchdowns, leading the Giants’ offensive attack.
- Dallas sits at 0-1 in 3rd place in the NFC East following the loss to New York.
- Giants improve to 1-0 and take sole possession of 1st place in the division.
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