In a tightly contested matchup, the Houston Texans held off the Dallas Cowboys with a final score of 23-15, improving their record to 3-1 in the early stages of the 2026 season. The victory was crucial for the Texans, as they aimed to solidify their status in the competitive AFC South. C.J. Stroud led the Texans' offense with precision, racking up 247 passing yards and connecting with standout receiver Jayden Higgins, who amassed an impressive 124 receiving yards. David Montgomery complemented the aerial attack with a solid ground game, contributing 75 rushing yards and keeping the Cowboys' defense on its heels. Meanwhile, Dak Prescott managed to throw for one touchdown, but it wasn't enough to propel his team to victory. Defensively, the Texans made key plays that turned the tide in their favor, with Will Anderson Jr. recording a critical sack that disrupted Dallas's rhythm. Cobie Durant of the Cowboys was a bright spot on defense, making seven total tackles, but it was Houston's ability to pressure Prescott and force turnovers that ultimately swung the game. The Texans' resilience shone through in the second half, allowing them to maintain their lead and secure the win.