New Coach Leads Giants to Victory Against Cowboys

The tri-state area buzzed for months about the New York Giants entering a new era. John Harbaugh, after nearly 20 years with the Baltimore Ravens, took the role of head coach. He embraced the challenge of restoring the team’s prestigious reputation.

On Sunday night, Harbaugh’s leadership began with a successful home victory, defeating the Dallas Cowboys 28-20. This marked a promising start for Giants fans eager to see the team’s revival.

Isaiah Likely celebrated a touchdown with Malik Nabers during the third quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Sept. 13, 2026. (Getty Images)

The Giants’ defense set the tone by forcing an early three-and-out. The sold-out crowd at MetLife Stadium erupted as they watched Jaxson Dart lead the team’s first drive of the 2026 season. The result was a 10-play, 83-yard drive, ending with a Cam Skattebo touchdown.

Harbaugh might have found Skattebo’s celebratory backflip risky, but the initial 7-0 lead was exactly what he wanted from his offense.

Long drives dominated the game, with the Giants exploiting the Cowboys’ defense using a powerful run game and timely play-calling. This was surprising given the expectations for the Cowboys’ improved defense.

The Giants were efficient, converting nine out of 11 third downs. Although the Cowboys converted eight of their 11, the Giants’ conversions were timely, allowing them to control the game.

Isaiah Likely shone, catching two of Dart’s three touchdown passes, totaling a game-high 78 yards on eight receptions. Malik Nabers, protective earlier due to a torn ACL, played and caught six passes for 69 yards, pleasing fans and teammates alike.

Odell Beckham Jr. joined the 53-man roster but saw no passes from Dart. Harbaugh’s focus on a physical run game was evident, with 37 carries and 165 rushing yards for the team compared to the Cowboys’ 69.

Jaxson Dart of the New York Giants directs his team during the third quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium on Sept. 13, 2026, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Getty Images)

Harbaugh’s impact is clear in his effort to revert to the tough, resilient Giants team of old. Sunday night’s performance in East Rutherford showed promise for the season ahead.

Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.