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Texans lead Cowboys 16-6 at halftime

At the halfway mark of the contest, the visiting squad has built a ten-point advantage over their interstate rivals, commanding a 16-6 scoreline. Through the initial two quarters, the team from Houston has heavily outgained Dallas in total offensive production by a margin of 204 to 121 yards, despite being hampered by seven infractions totaling 51 yards.

Quarterback C.J. Stroud has completed 9 of 14 pass attempts for 163 yards and a score, frequently targeting wide receiver Nico Collins—who returned from a hamstring absence to catch four passes for 75 yards and a touchdown—while also avoiding newly acquired defensive back Joey Porter Jr.

and instead challenging DaRon Bland. The defensive unit has repeatedly pressured Dak Prescott, dropping him for three sacks, delivering eight hits, and forcing an intentional grounding penalty while limiting the signal-caller to 87 passing yards on 12-of-20 passing.

CeeDee Lamb has secured six receptions for 49 yards, though George Pickens remains without a catch, and Javonte Williams has contributed 36 yards on seven rushing attempts.

Special teams play heavily shaped the closing moments of the opening half. Kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn successfully converted three field goals from distances of 51, 39, and 54 yards, with his final successful kick occurring right as the first half expired.

That last opportunity was set up after opposing kicker Brandon Aubrey missed a long-range 65-yard attempt with just 26 seconds remaining on the clock. Earlier in the quarter, Will Anderson thwarted another long scoring try by blocking Aubrey's 62-yard field goal attempt.

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