The Dallas Cowboys opened the 2026 NFL season with a 28-20 loss to the New York Giants, committing eight penalties for 85 yards. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said Dallas fell short of its standard, did not begin well on either side of the ball and needed to improve its coaching and execution.
Rookie Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart passed for 230 yards and ran for 54. Dallas struggled to contain him outside the pocket, where he extended plays and found additional room. The Cowboys entered the season with new defensive personnel after allowing an NFL-high 30.1 points per game in 2025.
A taunting penalty against Javonte Williams after a touchdown pushed Brandon Aubrey’s extra-point attempt farther from the goal posts. Schottenheimer said the coaching staff and players shared responsibility for the mistakes, which he called a humbling experience. He also said errors can happen with inexperienced players on the field, but those players must develop quickly.
Dak Prescott completed 22 of 34 passes for 175 yards, throwing touchdowns to CeeDee Lamb and Williams. Williams also scored on a rushing play, but Dallas could not overcome the penalties and other execution problems. The Cowboys are scheduled to host Washington next Sunday, and further preparation details were not provided.
