Love, Packers Defense Hold Off Cowboys 23-13 in Lambeau

A Defensive Stand Defines the Outcome

The Green Bay Packers secured a crucial home victory against the Dallas Cowboys with a final score of 23-13 at Lambeau Field on Sunday, October 18, 2026. The game was defined by Green Bay's ability to capitalize on mistakes and contain Dallas’s offense in the second half, despite a valiant passing effort from Dak Prescott.

First Half Control

Green Bay established early dominance, jumping out to a 7-0 lead in the first quarter on a nine-yard touchdown pass from Jordan Love to Matthew Golden. The Packers extended their advantage before halftime, adding a 25-yard field goal by Trey Smack to make it 10-0.

Late in the second period, Love demonstrated his dual-threat capability with a one-yard rushing touchdown, pushing the lead to 17-0 at the break.

Dallas remained scoreless through two quarters, unable to generate any offensive momentum against a resilient Packers defense that limited big plays and forced pressure on Prescott.

Cowboys Fight Back in the Third

The Cowboys began their comeback attempt in the third quarter. Javonte Williams broke through for a one-yard rushing touchdown, cutting the deficit to 17-7. However, Green Bay’s offense responded quickly, with Trey Smack drilling a 44-yard field goal to restore the seven-point margin at 20-7. The Packers' ability to maintain scoring consistency kept Dallas from gaining full control of the game's tempo.

Fourth Quarter Scramble and Final Stand

Green Bay added insurance in the fourth quarter with another Smack field goal, this one from 29 yards, extending the lead to 23-7. The Cowboys refused to surrender, driving down the field late in the game. Dak Prescott connected with Ryan Flournoy on a six-yard touchdown pass.

Dallas attempted a two-point conversion to close the gap, but the play failed, leaving the final score at 23-13.

Statistical Leaders

Jordan Love completed 23 of 41 passes for 276 yards and one touchdown, though he also threw one interception. Matthew Golden led all receivers with six catches for 104 yards and a score. Pierre Strong Jr. contributed on the ground with 28 rushing yards on 11 carries.

For Dallas, Prescott finished 34 of 54 passing for 258 yards and one touchdown but threw two interceptions. Javonte Williams rushed 11 times for 41 yards and a touchdown, while George Pickens caught six passes for 73 yards.

With the win, the Packers improved their record to 4-2, while the Cowboys fell to 2-4.

Sources

ESPN