New York Giants: The best offensive and defensive performers from week 3

In what was one of the most exciting and destiny-esque moments in New York Giants history, rookie quarterback Daniel Jones tailored a perfect comeback victory, beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 32-31.

Jones, who finished the day with 23 receptions on 36 attempts, earned 336 yards and two touchdowns. He also recorded a fumble. He was undoubtedly the Giants’ most prolific offensive player on Sunday afternoon, especially on the final drive of the game where he hit Sterling Shepard on a 36-yard completion, setting the unit up on Tampas 12-yard-line.

The New York Giants saw the future unfold right before them:

The Giants’ 6th overall pick from the 2019 NFL Draft put on a showcase of difficult throws, and also utilized his legs on several occasions, two of which resulted in touchdowns.

On a post route towards the sidelines, Jones hit Shepard in the endzone on a gorgeous throw, threading the needle in double coverage.

The Giants should be ecstatic about their young quarterback, as he not only showed he could be a leader but that he’s a clutch player as well. On a day where the defense was torched, the Giants managed to stay in the game by the skin of their teeth. No. 1 cornerback Janoris Jenkins allowed 190 yards and three scores to Tampa wide receiver, Mike Evans. However, there’s a reason for excitement at one position, and that’s linebacker.

Wisconsin product Ryan Connelly had a solid game, recording seven combined tackles, two solos, and an interception. His influence was essential, especially on a 3rd-and-2 on the Giants 5-yard line where he stopped Peyton Barber for no gain, forcing them to settle for a field goal.

Overall, the Giants relied on their rookies to pull out a challenging game. Being down 28-10 at one point didn’t give the fans or brass much hope of a victory, as 0-3 stared the team directly in the face. Jones and Connelly were not ready to give up, despite the lack of quality from Janoris Jenkins or the injury to Saquo Barkley.

Nonetheless, Big Blue pulled out an improbable win to drag themselves to a 1-2 record and the beginning of a new era.