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Carlson's 53-Yard Kick Lifts Saints Past Cowboys 27-24

Daniel Carlson’s late field goal secured a 27-24 victory for New Orleans over Dallas on Saturday, as the Saints overcame a second-half deficit to claim their first win of the season.

Sasha Yoder

August 29, 20262 min read

Late Field Goal - illustration, Jake Team LLC
NFLFinal
New Orleans Saints27
Dallas Cowboys24

August 29, 2026

A Late Kick Seals Victory

The New Orleans Saints defeated the Dallas Cowboys 27-24 in a Saturday night contest at AT&T Stadium. The outcome was decided by Daniel Carlson’s 53-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter, which provided the decisive margin of victory. The win improves New Orleans’ record to 1-2, while Dallas falls to 2-1.

First Half: Kicking Game Dominates

The game began with a defensive struggle defined by special teams accuracy. In the first period, Daniel Carlson opened the scoring for New Orleans with a 38-yard field goal, giving the Saints an early 3-0 lead. Dallas responded quickly as Brandon Aubrey connected on a 49-yard kick to tie the game at 3-3.

The Saints regained the lead in the same period when Barion Brown rushed for seven yards, with Tanner Brown adding the extra point to make it 10-3.

The second quarter continued to be a battle of field goals. Brandon Aubrey narrowed the gap with a 51-yard kick, making the score 10-6 at halftime. Spencer Rattler then broke the deadlock for Dallas with an eight-yard rushing touchdown, supported by Charlie Smyth’s kick, pushing the Cowboys ahead 17-9.

Before the break, Aubrey kicked a 58-yard field goal to bring New Orleans within three points, ending the half at 17-9 in favor of the Saints.

Third Quarter: Saints Extend Lead

New Orleans took control early in the third period as Zamir White powered in for an 11-yard rushing touchdown. Daniel Carlson’s kick extended the Saints' advantage to 24-9, seemingly putting distance between the two teams and giving New Orleans a commanding lead heading into the final frame.

Fourth Quarter: Dallas Rallies

The Cowboys mounted a significant comeback attempt in the fourth quarter. Sam Howell orchestrated the offense, connecting with Jordan Hudson on a 26-yard pass to make it 24-16. Howell then found Mitch Van Vooren on a 21-yard touchdown pass and converted a two-point play himself, tying the game at 24-all.

However, the Saints’ defense held firm in the closing moments. With time winding down, Daniel Carlson stepped up to kick a 53-yard field goal, putting New Orleans back on top 27-24. The Cowboys were unable to respond, and the final score stood at 27-24.

Statistical Leaders

Sam Howell led all passers for Dallas with 155 yards on 12 of 18 passing, including two touchdowns. Phil Mafah provided ground support with 46 rushing yards on 12 carries. Jordan Hudson was the primary receiving target, hauling in four passes for 97 yards and a touchdown.

For New Orleans, Zach Wilson completed nine of twelve passes for 93 yards. Audric Estime contributed 46 rushing yards on four attempts. Ronnie Bell led the Saints’ receiving corps with six catches for 65 yards.

Sources

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

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Sasha Yoder

Sasha Yoder covers Richardson high school and area college sports.

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