The New York Giants couldn’t get out of their own way on Monday night against the Dallas Cowboys, failing to stop Dak Prescott on offense in the second half and succumbed to a superior defense. Rookie quarterback Daniel Jones started the game strong, connecting with Cody Latimer on a touchdown in the first half.
However, Jones struggled in the second half, turning the ball over three times in the 37-18 loss. Big Blue had several decisive moments, including Golden Tate’s one-handed catch on third down, but the reality is, not even stellar catches like that can supplement bad overall play.
The Giants are still far away from being a good team, and it’s starting to get to some of the veteran players, who are fed up with watching the rookies make the same mistakes over and over again. Cornerback DeAndre Baker headlines the rookie mishaps, after stating his struggles with the playbook and defensive scheme.
Here’s what Baker had to say after the game:
“Just the plays and everything like that,†Baker said was what he needed to improve the most. “The playbook. Just knowing the plays. Knowing what I need to do. Knowing my assignment.”
Shurmur did mention that slot corner Corey Ballentine was partially at fault for Amari Cooper’s late-game touchdown to seal the victory. It also seemed like veteran Antoine Bethea was out of position and left his zone to help track a receiver who was already double covered, giving Cooper the room to run for the touchdown.
All of these struggles combined have gotten to some of the vets, including Golden Tate and safety, Michael Thomas.
Tate stated after the New York Giants loss to the Cowboys:
“We played extremely undisciplined football,†said Tate. “It’s hard enough to win in this league, but when you’re doing, I guess, knuckle-headed things, it certainly doesn’t work in your favor.â€
Thomas commented:
“Got some young mistakes right now,†flustered safety Michael Thomas said, holding back details. “They want to get better. That does nothing for you right now, but in the long run it’ll pay off.â€
Wanting to get better and being better are very different things. These hurdles were expected for the youngster on the Giants, and this year of experience will prove to be essential down the road. However, the product on the field is abysmal, and being mindful of a clear rebuild year is necessary.