Breaking Down The X's And O's

Breaking Down The X’s And O’s

Quarterbacks

Daniel Jones (22/35, 223 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, 2 lost fumbles, 78.6 QBR) once again was careless with the football. But to be fair, he was under pressure most of the game. He was sacked eight times (four by Chandler Jones) and hit a total of 12. He used his legs to make plays when needed, rushing four times for 35 yards. Jones’ decision making is still in the developmential stage and he has to stop trying to force things that aren’t there and keep the low-percentage plays to a minimum. Made a nice throw to tight end Rhett Ellison for 28-yard touchdown in the first half. The rain didn’t help him — or his Cardinals’ counterpart, Kyler Murray — making it very difficult to pass the football, especially in the second half.

Bottom Line: After a spectacular start to his career, Jones appears to be regressing. The play-calling isn’t helping.

Running Backs

Saquon Barkley (18 rushes, 72 yards, 1 TD; 3 receptions, 8 yards) returned to the lineup after missing three games with a high ankle sprain. At times he looked like his old self but overall, he couldn’t find enough space when the Giants needed it. Barkley left game temporarily in the second half, hobbling off the field and causing Giants fans to hold their breath. But he returned shortly after and led the Giants on a touchdown drive. Wayne Gallman, also returning to the lineup (concussion), had a 10-yard run erased by a Nate Solder holding penalty.

Bottom Line: Not good enough against a subpar Cardinals’ defense who came in allowing 132 yards per game on the ground.

Receivers