Dallas opened the 2026 NFL season with a 28-20 defeat against the New York Giants, surrendering 85 yards on eight penalties. A taunting call against Javonte Williams after a touchdown moved Brandon Aubrey's extra-point try to a more distant spot from the goal posts. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said both the players and coaching staff were responsible for the discipline problems.
Dak Prescott completed 22 of 34 passes for 175 yards, with touchdown throws to CeeDee Lamb and Williams. Williams also scored on the ground, but Dallas could not generate enough offense to recover from its penalties and execution problems.
Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart threw for 230 yards and added 54 rushing yards. Dallas struggled to contain him outside the pocket, where he extended plays and gained additional space. Schottenheimer said the Cowboys fell short of their standard, needed better coaching and had to correct mistakes involving younger players.
He called the loss humbling and said Dallas failed to begin effectively on offense or defense. The Cowboys had given up 30.1 points per game, the NFL's highest average, in 2025, then entered this season with new defensive personnel. Dallas is scheduled to host Washington next Sunday.
