Cowboys vs Cardinals Arizona Leads 17-7 at Halftime
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Cowboys vs Cardinals halftime update: Arizona leads 17-7 as Jacoby Brissett shines and Dak Prescott limps off after a tough first half for Dallas. The Arizona Cardinals went into halftime with a 17–7 lead over the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football, showing surprising dominance on both sides of the ball — even without star quarterback Kyler Murray.
Jerry Jones Admits One Trade Won’t Fix Defensive Woes
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones revealed before kickoff that the team has a trade deal ready to go, but after watching the first half, it’s clear Dallas’ issues run deeper than adding one new player.
The Cowboys’ defense — typically one of the league’s best — struggled to contain Arizona, giving up 190 total yards before the break.
Jacoby Brissett Shines in Murray’s Absence
Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett stepped up big for the Cardinals, accounting for two first-half touchdowns.
He connected with rookie sensation Marvin Harrison Jr. on a 4-yard touchdown pass, then powered in a 1-yard QB sneak for another score.
Despite entering the game with the NFL’s 22nd-ranked offense, Arizona looked confident and efficient against Dallas’ highly ranked defense.
Special Teams Keep Cowboys in the Game
Dallas’ only points came on special teams after Sam Williams blocked a punt that Marshawn Kneeland recovered in the end zone.
Outside of that moment, the Cowboys’ offense looked sluggish, struggling to move the chains and finish drives.
Offensive Struggles Continue for Dak Prescott and Company
Quarterback Dak Prescott finished the half completing 8 of 16 passes for just 75 yards. The Cowboys turned the ball over on downs, went three-and-out multiple times, and lost a fumble by Jake Ferguson.
Their final possession ended with Brandon Aubrey missing a 68-yard field goal attempt that would’ve tied the NFL record set a day earlier by Jacksonville’s Cam Little.
Prescott also took a hard hit on the last play of the half, twisting his ankle after Calais Campbell landed on it. The quarterback walked to the locker room with a visible limp — a concern for Dallas fans heading into the second half.
Standout Performances So Far
- Jacoby Brissett: 15-of-22, 158 yards, 1 TD, 1 rushing TD
- Marvin Harrison Jr.: 6 catches, 80 yards, 1 TD
- Elijah Higgins: 3 catches, 30 yards
- Javonte Williams (Cowboys): 9 carries, 42 yards
- George Pickens: 2 receptions, 28 yards
- Jake Ferguson: 4 catches, 27 yards
The Cowboys also hurt themselves with four penalties for 30 yards, further stalling any offensive rhythm.
What’s Next for Dallas?
With the Cowboys trailing by 10 and Prescott’s status uncertain, head coach Mike McCarthy will need a quick turnaround in the second half.
If the defense can’t adjust, and the offense continues to sputter, the Cardinals might pull off one of the week’s biggest upsets.
Cowboys vs Cardinals.
