The Dallas Cowboys will host Washington next Sunday after opening the 2026 NFL season with a 28-20 defeat against the New York Giants. Dallas committed eight penalties for 85 yards, while head coach Brian Schottenheimer said the team fell short of its expected standard and needed better coaching and execution.
Rookie Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart completed enough plays outside the pocket to challenge Dallas’ defense. He passed for 230 yards and added 54 rushing yards. The Cowboys entered the season with new defensive personnel after allowing an NFL-high 30.1 points per game in 2025.
Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott completed 22 of 34 passes for 175 yards, with touchdown throws to CeeDee Lamb and Javonte Williams. Williams also scored on a run. A taunting penalty against Williams after a touchdown moved Brandon Aubrey’s extra-point attempt farther from the goal posts.
Schottenheimer said the coaching staff and players shared responsibility for the penalties. He said mistakes can happen with inexperienced players, but those players must improve quickly. He called the loss humbling and said Dallas did not begin well on offense or defense. Further details about preparation for Washington were not provided.
