The New York Giants opened the season with a statement victory over the Dallas Cowboys, using a balanced offense, timely defensive plays and an impressive performance from second-year quarterback Jaxson Dart to earn the win on Sunday Night Football.
Dart entered the game making his first Week 1 start and looked increasingly comfortable as the night progressed. He made plays both through the air and with his legs while repeatedly extending drives against a Dallas defense that struggled to contain the Giants in key situations.
New York struck first behind rookie running back Cam Skattebo, who capped an early drive with a short touchdown run. Dart helped set up the score with a scramble into Dallas territory, showing the mobility that has become an important part of his game.
Dallas answered behind Dak Prescott.
Prescott connected with CeeDee Lamb for a touchdown, and the Cowboys gradually found more rhythm after a slow start. George Pickens and the Dallas tight ends also contributed as Prescott worked through the Giants defense.
The first major defensive turning point came when New York forced a turnover, but Dallas later answered with one of its own after Dart took a hard hit and lost the football.
The Giants responded before halftime.
Dart completed several passes in succession, moving New York quickly downfield before finding tight end Isaiah Likely for a touchdown. Likely became one of the central figures in the Giants offense, repeatedly exploiting openings in the Dallas secondary.
New York carried that momentum into the second half.
Dart again found Likely for a touchdown on a well-designed red-zone play, extending the Giants' advantage. The quarterback showed improved patience in the pocket and consistently worked through his progressions rather than relying solely on his first read.
The Giants also leaned on the short passing game.
Devin Singletary became particularly effective on swing passes out of the backfield. New York repeatedly returned to the concept, eventually using it for another touchdown as Singletary broke toward the end zone.
Dallas refused to go away.
Prescott directed multiple scoring drives in the second half, including a touchdown run by Javonte Williams. Later, Williams slipped free for another touchdown reception as injuries began to thin the Giants secondary.
The Cowboys' offense appeared increasingly dangerous late, but New York continued finding ways to extend possessions.
Dart converted several important third downs, often using Likely as a reliable target. A Dallas facemask penalty also helped the Giants sustain a late drive and consume valuable time.
For New York, the victory offered an encouraging early look at what the offense could become under Dart.
He showed mobility, toughness and better command of the passing game, while the Giants surrounded him with multiple dependable options. Likely was especially effective, Skattebo provided physical running, and Malik Nabers' presence continued to influence how Dallas defended the field.
The Cowboys had productive stretches and showed they could move the football, but defensive breakdowns and penalties proved costly.
For the Giants, the season opener provided more than a division win. It offered early evidence that Dart may be ready to take another significant step in his second NFL season.
