The Dallas Cowboys'
season opener against the New York Giants didn't go as planned, as they fell to the new-look Giants 28-20. Defensive coordinator Christian Parker's unit failed to meet expectations. Instead of a fresh start, the performance looked similar to many of the issues that plagued Dallas in 2025. Blown coverages, missed tackles, and an ineffective run defense were recurring problems throughout the game.The offense wasn't much better. Brian Schottenheimer's group struggled to generate explosive plays, the running game lacked consistency, and the Cowboys' top receivers failed to capitalize on multiple opportunities because of drops.
Every unit has significant room for improvement following an ugly season-opening defeat.
Cowboys Offense | Grade: D
The Cowboys'
offense struggled in nearly every area, with several familiar issues resurfacing immediately.
It starts with Dak Prescott, who appeared uncomfortable in the pocket for much of the night as the Giants' pass rush consistently disrupted the offense. The pressure contributed to an errant throw with 50 seconds remaining in the first half, resulting in an interception, ending a promising drive and allowing the Giants to score and take a lead into halftime.
New York generated pressure throughout the game, finishing with 10 recorded pressures against the Dallas offensive line. Prescott completed 22 of 34 passes for 175 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. His number could have been better if not for the four dropped passes from his top receivers, CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens.
The struggles up front also limited the running game. Javonte Williams rarely had clear rushing lanes and was often forced to create yards on his own. He finished with 41 yards on 12 carries and a touchdown, while the Cowboys managed only 69 rushing yards as a team.
Offensive coordinator Klayton Adams and Brian Schottenheimer need to figure out how to get this offensive line motivated or risk becoming a stagnant offensive group that can be pushed around every week.
Cowboys Defense | Grade: F
The defense showed occasional flashes by forcing a turnover and creating opportunities for more, but the overall performance felt far too familiar.
The biggest issue was coverage breakdowns at critical moments. One blown assignment left tight end Isaiah Likely wide open in the end zone with 20 seconds remaining in the first half. The problems continued after halftime. The Giants repeatedly attacked open space in the flat, running the same play four times in a row before Devin Singletary capped the sequence with a touchdown reception.
Given time to operate, Jaxson Dart made Dallas pay. He completed 23 of 29 passes for 230 yards and three touchdowns while adding 54 rushing yards. Cam Skattebo complemented the passing attack with 81 rushing yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. Behind a rebuilt offensive line, the Giants consistently won at the point of attack and controlled the tempo of the game and time of possession from start to finish.
For Christian Parker, the film review with his player will be uncomfortable but the Cowboys cannot afford a repeat performance against the Washington Commanders next week.
Special Teams | Grade: C
There isn't much that can be said about the Cowboys' special teams unit, but one thing's for sure: if you're going to be one of the highest-paid kickers in the NFL, you better not miss. After the unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on Javonte Williams pushed the Dallas extra point back, making it a 48-yard attempt, kicker Brandon Aubrey would miss the kick, pulling it wide right. Not the best outcome following his recent contract extension.
Outside of the missed kick, the coverage units played well and didn't give up any large returns, while the Cowboys' return game looked much better compared to last season.
This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Week 1 Report Card: How poorly each Cowboys unit fared vs Giants
