Packers Hold Off Cowboys 23-13 Behind Love's Control

A Controlled Win in Green Bay

The Green Bay Packers secured a disciplined 23-13 victory over the visiting Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Lambeau Field. The win improved Green Bay’s record to 4-2, while the Cowboys fell to 2-4.

Behind a steady passing performance from Jordan Love and a defense that held Dallas scoreless for the first half, the home team managed the game effectively from start to finish.

First Half Dominance

Green Bay established control early in the opening period. Love connected with Matthew Golden on a 9-yard pass, which was followed by a Trey Smack kick to give the Packers a 7-0 lead. The offense continued to find rhythm in the second quarter.

Smack added three more points with a 25-yard field goal, extending the advantage to 10-0. Love then took matters into his own hands, rushing for a 1-yard touchdown to push the score to 17-0 at halftime. The Cowboys were unable to mount any offensive response during this period, leaving them trailing significantly as they headed to the locker room.

Second Half Scoring and Defense

Dallas finally broke through in the third quarter when Javonte Williams rushed for a 1-yard touchdown, supported by a Brandon Aubrey kick. This play brought the Cowboys within ten points at 17-7. However, Green Bay’s offense did not waver. Smack kicked another field goal, this one from 44 yards out, to restore a 20-7 lead late in the third quarter.

The fourth quarter saw Green Bay extend its margin further. Smack buried a 29-yard field goal to make it 23-7. The Cowboys mounted a brief effort to close the gap, with Dak Prescott throwing a 6-yard pass to Ryan Flournoy for a touchdown.

Despite the score, the Cowboys failed in their two-point conversion attempt, leaving the final margin at 23-13. Dallas added no further points, and the Packers held on for the win.

Statistical Leaders

Love was instrumental in the victory, completing 23 of 41 passes for 276 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Matthew Golden led the receiving corps with six catches for 104 yards and the opening touchdown. Pierre Strong Jr. contributed on the ground with 11 carries for 28 yards.

For Dallas, Prescott completed 34 of 54 passes for 258 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Javonte Williams led the rushing attack with 11 carries for 41 yards and a touchdown. George Pickens was the primary target in the air, recording six receptions for 73 yards. The game drew an attendance of 77,383 to Lambeau Field.

Sources

ESPN