New York Giants V Cincinnati Bengals: Biggest takeaways, Daniel Jones injury update, defensive performance, more

New York Giants, Daniel Jones
Nov 29, 2020; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Giants emerged victorious over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday afternoon, by a slim 19–17 score. However, despite the win, the biggest news of the day was an injury to quarterback Daniel Jones.

Jones suffered a right hamstring injury in the second half, trying to extend the play with his legs and pick up the first down. He immediately felt the injury and was pulled from the game. He attempted to return but simply couldn’t drive off his right leg and was once again taken out and replaced by Colt McCoy.

Fortunately, the Giants’ defense had an incredible outing, limiting the Bengals to 10 points. I am not attributing seven of the points to the defense, considering it was on a kick return for a touchdown in the first quarter. Nonetheless, the Giants won the turnover battle 3-1, with Logan Ryan forcing a fumble and recovering it. They also intercepted Brandon Allen, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback, once, and forced a fumble on the final drive up the game to seal the win. Thanks to Jabaal Sheard and a Leonard Williams recovery.

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While this was a messy game for the Giants, their victory brings them to first place in the NFC East for the time being. If the Philadelphia Eagles fall to the Seattle Seahawks, they will be officially in first place going into week 13.

The Giants could face off against Seattle next week without Jones at the helm, but head coach Joe Judge stated that he was “optimistic” he could play with a week of rest.

The Giants are currently 4-7 and 3-4 in the division, going on their first three-game win streak since 2016. They also rushed for 140+ yards for the third straight game and didn’t allow a sack for the first time this season. Thanks to new offensive line coordinator Dave DeGuglielmo, the line looked a bit more solid in pass protection and once again dominated in the run game.

However, right tackle Cam Fleming allowed three costly penalties, so he will likely be swapped out with Matt Peart next week once he is cleared from the COVID/reserve list.

A few more notable performances came from Graham Gano, who hit four field goals, and was a difference-maker in the contest. Safety Jabrill Peppers also racked up six tackles, two passes defended, and flew around the field with his athleticism. Leonard Williams also had a stellar game, recording three QB hits and his 6th sack of the season. Overall, the defense was the highlight of this contest, thanks to coordinator Patrick Graham and his incredible halftime adjustments.