Giants open NFL season with 28–20 win over Cowboys as Skattebo returns
Cam Skattebo returned from a reported right ankle fracture to score as New York began John Harbaugh’s tenure with victory over Dallas.
The New York Giants opened the 2026 NFL season with a 28–20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, giving John Harbaugh a win in his first game as the club’s coach.
The result reversed a recent pattern in the rivalry. Dallas had won 16 of the teams’ previous 18 meetings since 2017, while the Giants entered the season after a 4–13 campaign in 2025.
Running back Cam Skattebo returned to action after his previous season reportedly ended with an open fracture to his right ankle. He scored a touchdown and celebrated with a backflip.
Skattebo reportedly finished with 81 rushing yards from 18 carries and one touchdown. Quarterback Jaxson Dart reportedly threw for 230 yards and three touchdowns.
Speaking after the game, Skattebo said early penalties prevented the Giants from building a larger lead. He urged the team to maintain its intensity across all four quarters and improve its discipline.
The Giants are scheduled to face the Los Angeles Rams on 21 September. Yahoo Sports reported that Skattebo viewed the victory as a foundation, while identifying penalties as an area requiring attention.
