The New York Giants secured a 28-20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on September 13, 2026 . led by tight end Isaiah Likely's two touchdowns, the Giants overcame early penalties to claim their first home season opener since 2010.

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Isaiah Likely’s two-touchdown performance at MetLife Stadium

Tight end Isaiah Likely proved to be the decisive factor in the Giants' victory, marking a successful return from the torn ACL he suffered in Week 4 of the previous season.. As the report indicates, Likely caught six passes for 60 yards, including two critical scoring strikes from quarterback Jaxson Dart. His first touchdown came on a 15-yard connection, followed by a second 2-yard score that helped extend the Giants' lead in the second half.

Jaxson Dart provided efficient leadership for the New York offense, completing 23 of 29 passes for 230 yards and three touchdowns. Dart also added 54 yards on the ground, helping the Giants maintain momentum throughout the humid New Jersey night. The offensive unit was bolstered by running back Cam Skattebo, who scored on a three-yard touchdown run during the team's opening scoring drive.

A 10-game rushing streak and the 2010 home opener milestone

This victory marks a significant statistical milestone for the franchise, as the Giants have now extended their streak of rushing for over 100 yards to 10 consecutive games. This run builds upon a dominant 2025 campaign where the team set an NFL record with nine straight games of 100-plus rushing yards. According to the game summary, this win also represents the Giants' first home season-opening victory since 2010, the same year MetLife Stadium first opened.

The atmosphere at MetLife Stadium was also shaped by the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The Giants honored the day with tribute performances and appearances by first responders, while players from both teams wore commemorative NYPD, FDNY, and PAPD apparel. The event served as a solemn backdrop to the high-stakes NFC East matchup.

Dak Prescott’s interception and the impact of Giants' defensive penalties

Despite the loss, the Dallas Cowboys remained competitive behind quarterback Dak Prescott, who completed 22 passes for 175 yards and two touchdowns. However, the Cowboys' momentum was halted by a crucial interception from Giants safety Jevon Holland at the New York 45-yard line. This turnover allowed Dart to lead a 55-yard drive that culminated in one of Likely's touchdown catches.

The game was also defined by disciplinary lapses on the New York side. The report notes that the Cowboys' scoring drives were aided by costly penalties, including a defensive pass interference call against cornerback Greg Newsome and a 19-yard unnecessary roughness penalty against defensive back Dru Phillips.. These errors allowed Dallas receiver George Pickens and tight end Jake Ferguson to advance the ball deep into Giants territory.

Can the Giants' secondary stabilize after the 19-yard DPI lapse?

While the win provides a sense of optimism, several questions remain regarding the Giants' consistency. Observers will be watching to see if the defensive secondary can limit high-yardage penalties like the one seen against Dru Phillips. Additionally, while wide receiver Malik Nabers showed signs of life in his first offensive series since Week 4 of 2025, his ability to maintain full health throughout the season remains an unverified factor for the New York offense.