Milton leads Cowboys to 34-13 victory over Cardinals in Glendale

A Decisive First Half

The Dallas Cowboys traveled to Glendale, Arizona, on Sunday, August 23, 2026, and delivered a commanding performance against the host Arizona Cardinals. The final score was 34-13 in favor of the visiting Cowboys, a result that extended their early-season momentum. Joe Milton III was the catalyst for Dallas, throwing two touchdown passes in the first half to set the tone for the contest. The game was played at State Farm Stadium before a crowd of 62,674 fans, with the Cowboys establishing a significant advantage that proved insurmountable for the Cardinals.

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

Dallas struck first in the opening quarter, with Malik Davis catching an eight-yard touchdown pass from Milton. The Cowboys extended their lead shortly after when Jonathan Mingo hauled in a 53-yard pass from Milton for another touchdown, giving Dallas a 14-0 lead. Arizona responded in the second quarter with a 38-yard field goal by Chad Ryland, but Milton answered with a one-yard rushing touchdown. Ryland cut the deficit to 21-6 with a 31-yard field goal, yet Brandon Aubrey restored the 15-point cushion with a 50-yard field goal before halftime. The Cowboys entered the break leading 24-6, having outscored the Cardinals 24-6 in the first two periods.

Third-Quarter Shifts

The third quarter saw the Cardinals score their only touchdown of the day. Corey Kiner rushed for one yard, with Chad Ryland converting the extra point to make it 24-13. However, the momentum remained firmly with Dallas. Aubrey added to the lead with a 29-yard field goal, pushing the score to 27-13. The Cowboys controlled the pace of the game, limiting the Cardinals to just seven points in the entire second half. Arizona’s offense, led by Gardner Minshew II, struggled to find consistent rhythm against the Dallas defense.

Final Stretch and Records

In the fourth quarter, the Cowboys put the game away. Phil Mafah ran in for a 15-yard touchdown, with Aubrey’s kick making the final margin 34-13. The Cardinals were scoreless in the final period, unable to mount a comeback. Statistically, Milton III completed 9 of 13 passes for 179 yards and two touchdowns. Jaydon Blue rushed for 75 yards on 15 carries, while Camden Brown caught two passes for 77 yards. For Arizona, Minshew II passed for 177 yards on 19 of 23 attempts with one interception. Evan Hull rushed for 51 yards, and Simi Fehoko had 42 receiving yards. The win improves the Cowboys to 2-0, while the Cardinals drop to 1-2.

Sources

https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/401874101