The 2024 offseason was filled with drama for the New York Giants. From being featured on the offseason version of Hard Knocks, two losing 2 star players to free agency. Despite the losses there was positivity surrounding GM Joe Schoen’s ability to build a winning team. That positivity quickly turned to negativity after Sunday’s home defeat to the Vikings.
The game started very promising for the Giants, as Dexter Lawrence wrapped up Sam Darnold for a sack on the 2nd play from scrimmage and then rookie cornerback Dru Phillips forced a fumble, recovered by star linebacker Bobby Okereke.
First and ten at the 20 yard line the Giants could only muster a field goal and it was downhill from there.
Journeyman quarterback Sam Darnold threw touchdown passes to Justin Jefferson for 3 yards and to Jalen Nailor for 21 yards. He completed his first 12 passes and as he finished the game 19 of 24 for 208 yards with an interception.
Jefferson had 4 catches for 59 yards to go along with his touchdown and beat Deonte Banks for 44 yards to start a 99 yard Viking drive.
The Giants did not have much to smile about throughout the game. Graham Gano was his consistent self kicking 2 field goals, the first for 50 yards and then adding a 23 yarder. Lawrence had a sack as there was no pressure on Darnold all game. Trade acquisition Brian Burn had three tackles in his Giants debut, while Kayvon Thibadeaux chipped in with zero.
Daniel Jones playing in first game back from ACL surgery looked slow and was extremely rusty. He finished 22 of 42 for 186 yards and 2 interceptions; the first of which was returned 10 yards for a pick-6 by Viking linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel.
Number one draft pick wide receiver Malik Nabers led the Giants with 66 yards receiving on 5 catches he targeted 7 times, second on the team.
The Giants find themselves on the road next week against the 0-1 Wasington Commanders.
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