Brian Schottenheimer said the Dallas Cowboys fell below their expected standard in a 28-20 season-opening loss to the New York Giants, and he accepted responsibility for mistakes by the coaching staff and players. Dallas committed eight penalties for 85 yards, including a taunting call against Javonte Williams after a touchdown that moved Brandon Aubrey’s extra-point attempt farther from the goal posts.
Rookie Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart completed passes for 230 yards and added 54 yards rushing. Dallas struggled when Dart left the pocket, allowing him to extend plays. Schottenheimer said the Cowboys needed better coaching and that younger players must develop quickly, while acknowledging that inexperience can contribute to mistakes.
Dak Prescott completed 22 of 34 passes for 175 yards and threw touchdown passes to CeeDee Lamb and Williams. Williams also scored on a rushing touchdown, but Dallas could not overcome the penalties and other execution problems. Schottenheimer called the result humbling and said the Cowboys failed to start well on offense or defense.
Dallas had permitted an NFL-high 30.1 points per game in 2025 and entered 2026 with new defensive personnel. The Cowboys are scheduled to host Washington next Sunday.
