The Dallas Cowboys began their 2026 campaign with a 28-20 defeat against the New York Giants, with coach Brian Schottenheimer saying execution problems affected the team on both sides of the ball.
Schottenheimer pointed to errors involving several young players, including missed opportunities to contain Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. Dart passed for 230 yards and ran for 54, using his mobility to extend plays and create problems for the Dallas defense.
Dallas was also penalized eight times for a total of 85 yards. A taunting call against Javonte Williams after a touchdown moved Brandon Aubrey's extra-point attempt farther back. Schottenheimer accepted responsibility for the team's discipline problems and said both he and the players were accountable.
Dak Prescott completed 22 of 34 passes for 175 yards and threw touchdown passes to CeeDee Lamb and Williams. Williams also scored on a rushing play, but the Cowboys did not produce enough offense to overcome the penalties and other mistakes.
Schottenheimer described the team's overall showing as below its standard and said Dallas needed to improve its work with younger players. The defeat came after the Cowboys allowed an NFL-high 30.1 points per game during the 2025 season. Dallas is scheduled to host Washington next Sunday.
