DALLAS – Having shared plenty of history, certain games between the Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys mean considerably more than others. Whether it was ending years of frustration, delivering an unforgettable playoff-run moment, or producing another improbable comeback, this matchup has given Cardinals fans memories that will last generations. Following Arizona’s latest comeback victory in Dallas, it’s worth looking back at three of the greatest moments in Cardinals-Cowboys history.
Oct 20, 2002; Tempe, AZ, USA; FILE PHOTO; Arizona Cardinals defensive back Coby Rhinehart (23) tackles Dallas Cowboys receiver Darnay Scott (85) at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
September 7, 1997: The Night Cardinals Fans Tore Down the Goalposts:
There are victories, and then there are victories that become part of franchise lore. On September 7, 1997, the Cardinals defeated the Dallas Cowboys 25-22 in overtime at Sun Devil Stadium. It was more than just another early-season win. Arizona had finally defeated Dallas after losing 13 consecutive meetings against the Cowboys.
Kevin Butler delivered the game-winning 20-yard field goal, sending the stadium into absolute chaos. In one of the most famous moments in franchise history, Cardinals fans flooded the field, tore down the goalposts, and carried pieces of them out of the stadium. Some fans even transported the goalposts to a nearby dry riverbed. For a franchise that had spent years struggling to earn respect, beating one of the NFL’s premier teams carried enormous emotional significance. It remains one of the most recognizable celebrations in Cardinals history and a reminder of just how much a single victory can mean to a fan base.
Sep 7, 1997; Tempe, AZ, USA; FILE PHOTO; Arizona Cardinals receiver Frank Sanders (81) celebrates a touchdown against the Dallas Cowboys at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
October 12, 2008: The Blocked Punt That Ended in the End Zone:
The 2008 season became one of the most important in Cardinals history, eventually leading to the franchise’s first Super Bowl appearance. Along the way, Arizona delivered one of its most memorable victories against Dallas. The Cowboys and Cardinals were tied 24-24 in overtime after Nick Folk connected on a 52-yard field goal to extend the game.
Dallas appeared to have another opportunity to take control, but Arizona’s special teams had other plans. Sean Morey broke through and blocked Mat McBriar’s punt. Monty Beisel recovered the football in the end zone for a game-winning touchdown, giving Arizona a 30-24 victory. It was an extraordinary finish and one of the most unusual game-winning plays in NFL history. For Cardinals fans, it was another reminder during that season that Arizona could find ways to win games in the most unexpected circumstances.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals linebacker Josh Sweat (10) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
November 1, 2026: Minshew Magic Delivers Another Dallas Heartbreaker
The latest chapter that climbed the ranks came on Sunday after a miraculous comeback. Arizona entered its matchup against Dallas needing an offensive spark. Jacoby Brissett’s struggles continued, and the Cardinals eventually turned to backup quarterback Gardner Minshew.
The change immediately provided a different energy. Minshew completed 17 of 23 passes for 188 yards and three touchdowns, helping Arizona overcome a significant deficit. With Tyler Allgeier contributing, the Cardinals mounted an incredible comeback to defeat Dallas 33-30.
The victory was particularly meaningful because it extended Arizona’s impressive winning streak at AT&T Stadium. For Cardinals fans, however, the biggest takeaway was the quarterback change. Minshew gave an increasingly frustrated fan base something to celebrate, while raising legitimate questions about who should lead the offense moving forward.
Three Games, One Unforgettable Matchup
From tearing down goalposts in 1997 to a blocked punt in 2008, and another remarkable comeback in 2026, the Cardinals have given their fans plenty of reasons to remember their meetings with Dallas. These games represent more than three victories. They represent the emotional highs, unexpected heroes, and unforgettable moments that make being an NFL fan worthwhile. If the latest comeback is any indication, Cardinals-Cowboys history might not be finished producing memorable chapters.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
