# Dallas Cowboys defeat Arizona Cardinals 34-13 in preseason

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/arizona-cardinals-and-dallas-cowboys-preseason-matchup
> Updated: 2026-08-22T22:23:00.000Z. Sources: 25. Developments: 3.

The Dallas Cowboys defeated the Arizona Cardinals 34-13 in their second NFL preseason game at State Farm Stadium. 

The matchup provided significant clarity in the Cowboys’ backup quarterback competition. Rookie Joe Milton III emerged as a standout performer, completing 9 of 13 passes for 176 yards and two touchdowns, while also contributing a rushing touchdown. This performance strengthens his position against Sam Howell for the No. 2 spot behind Dak Prescott, though coaching staff noted that the competition is “far from over.” Howell completed 7 of 10 passes for 65 yards in the second half but also threw an interception.

Other notable Dallas contributors included wide receiver Jonathan Mingo, who caught a 53-yard touchdown, and running back Jaydon Blue, who rushed for 75 yards on 15 carries. Defensive highlights included linebacker Jaishawn Barham, who recorded five tackles and a tackle for loss, and cornerback Shavon Revel, who recorded an interception.

The Cardinals struggled defensively, surrendering 175 rushing yards and multiple explosive plays. Offensively, Gardner Minshew II played the entire first half, completing 19 of 23 passes for 177 yards. Despite the loss, Arizona received positive news regarding cornerback Garrett Williams, who was officially removed from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list following his Achilles injury.

As the preseason progresses, the Cowboys face critical roster decisions to trim the team to 53 players, specifically addressing depth concerns at running back and defensive end.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-23: Dallas Cowboys achieve first 2-0 preseason start since 2007

The Dallas Cowboys secured their second preseason win in a row by defeating the Arizona Cardinals, marking their first 2-0 preseason start since 2007.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dallas-cowboys-achieve-first-2-0-preseason-start-since-2007

### 2026-08-22: Dallas Cowboys defeat Arizona Cardinals 34-13 in preseason matchup

Joe Milton III led the Dallas Cowboys to a 34-13 preseason win over the Arizona Cardinals, strengthening his case for the backup quarterback position.

20 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/arizona-cardinals-prepare-for-cowboys-preseason-game-amid-garrett-williams-return

### 2026-08-20: Arizona Cardinals reveal quarterback plan for preseason game against Cowboys

The Arizona Cardinals will use Gardner Minshew as the primary quarterback against the Dallas Cowboys this weekend, with Carson Beck likely sidelined due to a rib injury.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/arizona-cardinals-reveal-quarterback-plan-for-preseason-game-against-cowboys

### 2026-08-17: Arizona Cardinals host Dallas Cowboys in NFL preseason matchup

The Arizona Cardinals host the Dallas Cowboys in an NFL preseason game on August 22, 2026, at State Farm Stadium, with the Cardinals entering as slight betting favorites.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/arizona-cardinals-host-dallas-cowboys-in-nfl-preseason-matchup

---
Cite as: Dallas Cowboys defeat Arizona Cardinals 34-13 in preseason. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/arizona-cardinals-and-dallas-cowboys-preseason-matchup