Carlson’s 53-Yard Kick Lifts Saints Past Cowboys 27-24 in Arlington

A Decisive Finish in Arlington

The New Orleans Saints secured a narrow 27-24 victory over the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at AT&T Stadium. The game remained tightly contested until the final moments, when Daniel Carlson’s 53-yard field goal proved to be the difference-maker. The win improves New Orleans’ record to 1-2, while the home team Dallas drops to 2-1.

First Half Exchange

Dallas started on the board first when Brandon Aubrey connected on a 49-yard field goal in the opening period, though New Orleans quickly answered with a 7-yard rushing touchdown by Barion Brown and a successful kick by Tanner Brown. The Saints took an early lead that held through the first quarter before Aubrey added another field goal to make it 10-6 at halftime.

Spencer Rattler extended New Orleans’ advantage in the second period with an 8-yard rushing touchdown, kicking the score to 17-9 before Aubrey’s third field goal of the night narrowed the gap to 17-9.

Third Quarter Momentum Shift

The Saints struck again in the third quarter when Zamir White rushed for an 11-yard touchdown. Daniel Carlson converted the extra point, pushing New Orleans’ lead to 24-9. Dallas began their comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, with Sam Howell orchestrating two scoring drives.

First, he threw a 26-yard pass to Jordan Hudson, who added a receiving yardage total of 97 yards for the game. The Cowboys then tied the game at 24-all when Howell connected with Mitch Van Vooren on a 21-yard pass and completed a two-point conversion run.

Final Minutes Decide It

With the score tied, the Saints regained possession. Daniel Carlson stepped up in the clutch, drilling a 53-yard field goal to put New Orleans ahead 27-24. The Cowboys were unable to respond, leaving the final score at 27-24.

Sam Howell finished with 155 passing yards and two touchdowns on 12-of-18 passing for Dallas. For New Orleans, Zach Wilson contributed 93 passing yards on 9-of-12 passing, while Ronnie Bell led receivers with six catches for 65 yards. Audric Estime provided ground support with 46 rushing yards on four carries.

The game drew an attendance of 81,295 spectators to the Arlington venue.

Sources

https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/401874048