A Dominant First-Half Performance
The Dallas Cowboys established a commanding lead early in their 34-13 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. Joe Milton III was the offensive engine for the visitors, throwing two touchdown passes in the first half to set the tone for the game.
His first score came on an eight-yard connection with Malik Davis, followed shortly by a 53-yard strike to Jonathan Mingo. These plays, both converted by Brandon Aubrey, gave Dallas a 14-0 advantage before the Cardinals could find their rhythm.
Cardinals Attempt a Comeback
The home team managed to chip away at the deficit in the second quarter, but Dallas continued to extend its lead. Chad Ryland kicked a 38-yard field goal to cut it to 14-3, but Milton responded with a one-yard rushing touchdown. Ryland added a 31-yard field goal late in the half, yet Aubrey answered with a 50-yard kick to make it 24-6 at the break.
The Cardinals’ offense struggled to generate consistent momentum, with Gardner Minshew II completing 19 of 23 passes for 177 yards while throwing one interception. Evan Hull led the rushing attack with 51 yards on 11 carries, and Simi Fehoko caught two passes for 42 yards, but it was not enough to overcome the deficit.
