The New York Giants lost a thriller to the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, losing 27-24 to Greg Joesph’s game-winning 61-yard field goal as time expired, putting the Giants’ celebration of clinching the playoffs for the first time since 2016 on hold for at least another week.
However, despite the loss, Giants quarterback Daniel Jones played arguably his best game of the season, finishing the Christmas Eve thriller with:
- 30/42 completion rate
- 334 passing yards
- 34 rushing yards
- 1 TD
- 1 INT
- 92.8 passer rating
Aside from the one interception, which was his first thrown in five weeks, Jones played a nearly flawless game, making great decisions in the pocket with both his arm and legs.
One big point of emphasis in Jones’ performance was his patience in the pocket. On numerous occasions, he bought time by using his legs to scramble out of the pocket while under pressure and find the open man, which helped spark a Giants offense that has been lackluster in the passing game this season.
Jones’ success in the passing game resulted in a huge game from wide receiver Isaiah Hodgins, who was on the Buffalo Bills practice squad just a month ago.
Hodgins has slowly been showcasing his impact in recent weeks, but on Saturday, he broke out big time, catching eight passes for 89 yards and recording a touchdown in the second quarter.
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However, the strong performances from Jones and Hodgins were not enough to win the game for the Giants, and they now head back home still without a secured playoff spot.
Giants head coach Brian Daboll, still peeved about the loss, acknowledged Jones’ efficient performance on Saturday to reporters postgame but made it clear that winning is what’s important.
“I thought he did some good things. But, look, all of us we just didn’t do enough to win a game.”
Brian Daboll on Daniel Jones’ performance on Saturday
The Giants will look to get back in the win column when they take on the Indianapolis Colts in Week 17. New York controls their own destiny now, as a victory over the Colts would clinch them a playoff spot.
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