The New York Giants defeated the Dallas Cowboys 28-20 on Sunday, September 13, as Jaxson Dart threw three touchdown passes—including two to Isaiah Likely—to deliver a winning start to the 2026 regular season at MetLife Stadium.
New York set the tone in front of 83,286 fans, scoring seven points in every quarter and never allowing Dallas to draw even after the opening period. The Giants led 7-0 after one quarter, took a 14-7 edge into halftime, and maintained that seven-point margin at 21-14 heading to the fourth. Dallas made a final push with six fourth-quarter points, but New York answered with another touchdown to preserve its division-opening win.
Dart was the centerpiece of the Giants’ efficient offensive effort. The quarterback finished 23/29, 230 YDS, 3 TD, consistently keeping the offense on schedule and converting scoring opportunities into touchdowns. His connection with Likely was especially important: the tight end hauled in 8 REC, 78 YDS, 2 TD, providing a reliable target over the middle and in the red zone.
The Giants also received a productive return from Cam Skattebo, who made his first appearance back from injury and supplied balance on the ground. Skattebo carried 18 times for 81 yards and 1 TD, giving New York a physical rushing option while Dart distributed the ball through the air. His touchdown accounted for the Giants’ fourth trip to the end zone and helped ensure Dallas could not turn its late rally into a true two-minute-drill chance to tie the game.
Key Performers
Jaxson Dart, Giants: 23/29, 230 YDS, 3 TD. Dart completed nearly 80 percent of his passes and accounted for three of New York’s four touchdowns in his Week 1 outing.
Isaiah Likely, Giants: 8 REC, 78 YDS, 2 TD. Likely led all receivers in the available game data and found the end zone twice on Dart passes.
Cam Skattebo, Giants: 18 CAR, 81 YDS, 1 TD. Skattebo’s 81 rushing yards gave New York a steady complement to its passing game in his return from injury.
The available game summary did not include individual Cowboys passing, rushing, or receiving stat lines, but Dallas did score in each of the final three quarters after being held scoreless in the first. The Cowboys’ 7-point second quarter and 7-point third quarter kept the game competitive, yet New York’s ability to produce touchdowns rather than settle for field goals proved decisive.
NerdSports Stat: The Giants scored exactly seven points in all four quarters, becoming one of the rare Week 1 teams to post a touchdown in every period of regulation.
For New York, the result is a strong first step under coach John Harbaugh and an early boost in the NFC East race. The Giants are 1-0 and will host the Los Angeles Rams on Monday, September 21. Dallas falls to 0-1 and heads into its home matchup with the Washington Commanders needing a quicker start after its opening-quarter deficit.
Frequently Asked Questions
New York Giants defeated Dallas Cowboys 28-20 on September 13, 2026.
Jaxson Dart threw for 230 yards and 3 touchdowns.
No, the Giants won 28-20 in regulation.
New York Giants is now 1-0; Dallas Cowboys is 0-1.
The Giants host the Los Angeles Rams on Monday, September 21, 2026 at 5:15 PM PDT.
