Cowboys defense struggles again in loss to Giants in season opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 5:06 PM
Last updated Sep 14, 2026

The Dallas Cowboys lost 28-20 to the New York Giants in their season opener on September 14, 2026. Despite off-season changes, including a new defensive coordinator, the Cowboys' defense struggled significantly, allowing the Giants to convert 9 of 10 third downs and sustaining lengthy drives. Dallas had its chances, with Dak Prescott leading scoring drives after halftime, but a crucial interception hampered their efforts. Both teams face pressure to avoid an 0-2 start next week, with Dallas set to host Washington.
- •Dallas allowed two lengthy touchdown drives in the second half.
- •The Cowboys had a 20% third-down conversion rate.
- •Dak Prescott's interception led to Giants' scores.
- •Malik Hooker may have a fractured forearm injury.
- •Dallas faces Washington next week.
- 5:06 PMYahoo Sports — It's same ol', same ol' with Cowboys defense as hype gets pushed aside by reality
"The Giants had the ball three times in the second half. New York was 9 of 10 on third down for the game before Jaxson Dart's kneel-down on third down on the final play. Receivers ran free in the secondary, just as they did a year ago when the Cowboys gave up the most points with the fewest interceptions in franchise history.
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