Giants at Cowboys: 3 things we learned

Here are three takeaways from Sunday’s 2016 NFL Week 1 matchup between the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys.

On Sunday afternoon, the New York Giants visited their NFC East rivals, the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys were debuting two rookies on offense who received quite a bit of praise from the offseason. Dak Prescott inherited the starting quarterback position after a rough injury suffered by Tony Romo. Ezekiel Elliott, a highly-touted running back, comes in as the odds on favorite to win offensive rookie of the year.

For the Giants, due to all the shakeups with other teams in their division, many analysts feel they are the clear-cut team to beat in the NFC East. They made a statement for themselves in today’s game, although it was a hard fought win in a close game throughout.

1. Eli Manning is ready to return the Giants to prominence

It was clear in today’s game that Eli Manning is ready to bring his team back to the postseason. While it’s only one game into the season, it already appears the NFC East is the Giants’ division.

Manning steered his team to today’s victory with 19-of-28 passing for 207 yards and three touchdowns. He was sacked twice and also threw an interception. However, he and his receivers were on point in this game, getting all three of New York’s touchdowns in the win.

2. Dallas’ star rookies look promising for the season ahead.

Even though it was a loss, Dallas’ two offensive rookies look like they could enjoy a successful season. In particular, Prescott appeared comfortable in his debut. He had 227 yards passing on 25-of-45 completed passes and guided the Cowboys on scoring drives. His only mishap came in the closing seconds on a spiked ball with time running out.

Running back Ezekiel Elliott got off to a slow star. However, he had the only touchdown of the game for Dallas. He finished with 51 yards on 20 carries and the touchdown. The Giants knew to target him, but he appears like he will be able to go off in future games. Watch out!

3. Victor Cruz is back for the Giants offense.

In today’s game, Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz made his first catch after being sidelined for 700 days. Later on, he would make a touchdown grab on a three-yard strike from Manning. That particular score was the difference maker as it gave New York the 20-19 lead, and eventually the win. Cruz provides the Giants another powerful option to go along with star receiver Odell Beckham Jr. that will likely pay dividends in the season ahead.

Next: Best QB/Head Coach Combos in NFL History

A 20-19 win is a great way for this New York Giants team to start off their season over a division rival. They’ll look to continue that momentum next week when they play at home against the Saints. Dallas didn’t look terrible and could be a contender based on the way their rookie quarterback kept them ahead or within reach of today’s game.