Antonio Pierce's New York Giants lost their season opener against Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night at Texas Stadium 45-35.

The offense gained 448 yards, including 314 in the air, and threw four touchdown passes. But the defence couldn't stop Dallas, surrendering the highest opening-game point total by an opponent in Giants' history, six touchdowns, 478 yards and 12 plays of at least 15 yards (ten passes, two runs), including touchdown throws of 22, 47 and 51 yards. Dallas succeeded on six of 11 third-down conversion attempts.

Tony Romo threw four touchdown passes and averaged 23 yards on his 15 completions as receivers ran loose before and after catching the ball. Pierce (pictured), whose father is Bermudian, had eight solo tackles. Pierce has been voted the defence captain this season for the Giants.