John Harbaugh Era Begins with a Giants Victory Over Cowboys

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The tri-state area buzzed for months about the New York Giants’ new chapter. John Harbaugh, with nearly two decades at the Baltimore Ravens, took on the Giants’ head coach role. He embraced the challenge with pride, aware of the high expectations and the legacy he aimed to rekindle in a franchise that had been struggling.

Giants fans saw a promising start to the Harbaugh era as the team triumphed over the Dallas Cowboys 28-20 on Sunday night. It was a hard-fought victory that showcased the new regime’s ethos. From the outset, the Giants’ defense demonstrated its mettle by forcing a three-and-out, electrifying a full house at MetLife Stadium as quarterback Jaxson Dart led the offense for the first time in 2026.

Isaiah Likely celebrates 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.

The opening drove spanned 10 plays and 83 yards, consuming over six minutes of the first quarter. It culminated in a Cam Skattebo touchdown, a perfect start for the Giants, despite Harbaugh’s reservations about Skattebo’s celebratory backflip.

The Giants’ strategy relied on lengthy drives combined with a punishing run game. Creative play calls disrupted what was expected to be a stronger Cowboys’ defense this season. New York converted nine out of 11 third downs, capitalizing at crucial moments to maintain their scoring momentum.

Two touchdowns for the Giants bore a connection to Harbaugh’s previous tenure with the Ravens. Isaiah Likely emerged as a key player with two touchdown catches from Dart, accumulating 78 yards over eight receptions.

CAM SKATTEBO HORRIFIES GIANTS FANS BY ATTEMPTING A BACKFLIP DESPITE COMING OFF A LEG INJURY

Malik Nabers, another pivotal player, made his comeback from a significant injury sustained last season. Cleared to play just before the game, he managed six catches for 69 yards. His return was celebrated by fans and teammates alike.

While Odell Beckham Jr. was part of the active roster, he did not secure any catches. The game plan emphasized a robust running attack, orchestrated by offensive coordinator Matt Nagy and run game coordinator Greg Roman. This approach contributed to a total of 165 rushing yards, surpassing the Cowboys’ 69. Harbaugh’s influence was evident in this ground-based strategy.

In East Rutherford, the Giants began a new era by honoring the franchise’s storied past. Harbaugh’s focus on a physical, disciplined style resonated with fans at MetLife Stadium.