Dallas opened the 2026 NFL season with a 28-20 defeat against the New York Giants, with penalties and execution issues affecting the Cowboys' performance. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said the team fell short of its standard and said coaching and player errors both contributed, particularly with several younger players involved.
He said those players need to improve quickly and that the coaching staff must get better as well.
Rookie Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart completed enough plays outside the pocket to challenge Dallas' defense. He finished with 230 passing yards and 54 rushing yards. The Cowboys entered the season with new defensive personnel after giving up 30.1 points per game in 2025, the highest average in the NFL.
Dallas' eight penalties totaled 85 yards. A taunting penalty against Javonte Williams after a touchdown forced Brandon Aubrey to try the extra point from a more distant spot. Schottenheimer said he and the players shared responsibility for those mistakes.
Dak Prescott completed 22 of 34 passes for 175 yards, including touchdown throws to CeeDee Lamb and Williams. Williams also scored on a run, but Dallas could not overcome its discipline and execution problems. Schottenheimer called the loss humbling.