The NFL’s 2026 schedule is beginning to take shape, and the league wasted no time announcing a marquee matchup. Dallas and New York will renew their NFC East rivalry under the lights in Week 1, setting the stage for a dramatic Sunday night opener. Yankee Scores reports.
Rivalry Renewed
The Cowboys will visit the Giants at MetLife Stadium on Sept. 13, marking the eighth time in the past 15 years the two franchises have opened the season against each other. Dallas, long branded “America’s Team,” remains a prime‑time staple, while New York enters a new era with Super Bowl‑winning coach John Harbaugh making his Giants debut.
Quarterback Spotlight
Fans could see the first meaningful showdown between Dak Prescott and Jaxson Dart. Prescott remains the veteran leader of Dallas, while Dart is coming off a promising rookie campaign that solidified him as New York’s franchise quarterback. Both started the season finale in January, but neither team was in playoff contention then, making this opener a fresh chapter.
First Sunday night game of the season, Sept. 13, will be the Cowboys at the Giants. pic.twitter.com/YPZTYO6xYw
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 11, 2026
Rookie Debuts
The game may also feature the NFL debuts of two former Ohio State teammates. Giants linebacker Arvell Reese, drafted fifth overall, and Cowboys safety Caleb Downs, taken at No. 11, are expected to play key roles right away. Their presence adds another layer of intrigue to a rivalry already steeped in history.
What’s Next
While Dallas and New York headline Sunday night, the defending champion Seattle Seahawks will host the league’s kickoff game on Wednesday, Sept. 9. Their opponent has yet to be announced, with possibilities including Chicago, Arizona, Kansas City, the Chargers, or even a Super Bowl rematch against New England. The full schedule will be released Thursday.
