It has been easy to point fingers at coach Brian Daboll and the New York Giants this season, and there have been many reasons to do so.
After a disappointing 6-11 record in 2023, the Giants struggled in their first game, losing 28-6 to Minnesota. They then lost to Washington 21-18, even though New York scored three touchdowns while the Commanders did not score any.
However, the last three weeks may suggest it’s time for a fresh look at the team.
The Giants have bounced back with two wins, bringing their record to 2-3. Their 29-20 victory against the Seahawks in Seattle may have been their strongest performance for several reasons.
New York faced challenges, giving up an early touchdown from a 102-yard fumble return, and still managed to win despite missing their best offensive player, rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers (concussion), as well as their top running back, Devin Singletary (groin).
The Giants achieved a season-high 420 total yards, with 175 yards coming from rushing. They also had a season-high 24 first downs. Quarterback Daniel Jones completed 23 of 34 passes for 234 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. Veteran Darius Slayton stepped up in Nabers’ absence, catching eight passes for 122 yards and scoring his first touchdown.
The defense effectively pressured the Seahawks, except at the ends of the halves. Special teams sealed the win when Isaiah Simmons blocked a late 47-yard field goal attempt that could have tied the game, and Bryce Ford-Wheaton returned it 60 yards for a touchdown.
While a 2-3 record isn’t ideal, the Giants lost to strong teams: the undefeated Vikings, the Commanders, and the Cowboys.
New York should have beaten Washington but missed opportunities. Kicker Graham Gano got hurt on the opening kickoff, and Nabers dropped a crucial fourth-down pass in the final two minutes that would have given the Giants a first down at the Commanders’ 10-yard line while the game was tied.
