By: Maylee Salgado
On Thursday, November 12, the New York Giants faced their division rival, the Washington Commanders, in a rematch. Back in Week 5, the two teams went head-to-head, resulting in a 27-27 overtime tie. This highly anticipated Week 10 matchup left the Giants (and their fans) shocked as the Commanders took the lead late in the fourth quarter, ultimately pulling off a gritty win. Despite an outstanding offensive performance, how could the Giants let this one slip through their fingers?
The Giants had plenty to look forward to heading into Week 10, with running back Cam Skattebo returning after being ruled out due to a hamstring injury, and starting quarterback, JJ McCarthy’s return after exiting last week’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles because of a hip injury.
Thursday night’s game against the Commanders kicked off with the Giants having the first ball possession. Skattebo and McCarthy were evidently healthy, and their confident energy revealed that they were ready to play. Despite rookie kicker, Dominic Zvada missing a 33-yard field goal during the first quarter, Giants defense responded accordingly by not allowing Washington to score any points. Both teams played confidently, ending the first quarter at MetLife Stadium 0-0.
The second quarter got off to a rocky start, beginning with Commanders wide receiver Treylon Burks catching a pass that was initially ruled complete. Giants head coach John Harbaugh challenged the call, and the ruling was overturned, deeming the pass incomplete. However, the Giants failed to capitalize on the momentum. McCarthy threw an interception, and was immediately sacked on the following possession, forcing the Giants into a quick three-and-out.
As the second quarter progressed, McCarthy appeared to get more comfortable, poised and focused—as they grew eager for a touchdown. Penalties on Washington also aided the Giants, giving them automatic first downs and free yardage. The Giants methodically drove down the field. Finally, after a 16 play, 72-yard drive, Skattebo powered his way into the end zone for a touchdown—the first of the entire game, putting the Giants ahead 7-3. The Commanders came back offensively; with only 2 minutes and 35 seconds remaining in the first half, Ben Sinnott (TE) scored their first touchdown. The teams entered halftime with Washington leading 10-7.
Washington opened the third quarter with possession, but the offense struggled. Quarterback Jayden Daniels took a sack, and the Commanders continued to rack up penalties. Washington was obviously feeling the pressure, as both teams began to exchange words along with some pushing and shoving.
Building on New Yorks momentum, Skattebo scored his second touchdown of the night. Despite getting his gear tugged on and ripped, defenders were unable to stop him. The “Skat Pack” celebrated with his infamous backflip.
With tensions continuing to rise, Commanders wide receiver, Antonio Williams made it into the end zone. Shortly after, Malik Nabers (Giants WR) fumbled and Washington’s linebacker Frankie Luvu recovered the ball. They did not score any points after the fumble recovery and made their way into the final quarter 17-14.
Both teams were neck and neck all throughout the game, leading to the fourth quarter. After 7 minutes and 47 seconds, Giants tight end, Isaiah Likely, raced his way into the end zone with a 66-yard touchdown on a three-play drive. The Giants took the lead again at 21-17. They were confident they had secured a win, as Daniels threw his first interception in his last 208 passes. On their following possession, he threw his second interception. The New York Giants thought they were one step away from being 6-3-1.
With two minutes left of game time, the Giants’ lives flashed before their eyes. On 3rd down, McCarthy threw the ball, targeting Nabers and instead was intercepted by cornerback Rasul Douglas. This was essentially the game-ending play for the Giants. Throwing an interception, gave the Commanders an opportunity to get the ball back and have a chance at scoring, and that is exactly what happened.
With only 57 seconds remaining, Stefon Diggs (Commanders WR) scored the game-winning touchdown for Washington. The two teams bickered and shoved after the play, but it was too late for New York. Commanders had sealed the win 24-21.
This game could be called a season saving victory for Washington, moving them to 3-5-1. Even though the Giants trailed the Commanders all the way until the final quarter, their overall offensive performance was impressive. McCarthy ended with 293 passing yards and 34 rushing yards, while Skattebo contributed 2 touchdowns, 78 rushing yards and 44 receiving yards. Nabers added 44 receiving yards, while Likely led with 127 receiving yards.
Player stats reveal that New York had a productive offensive night, but individual performances weren’t enough to secure a win. Costly turnovers and a late-game interception proved to be the difference between a hard-fought victory and adisappointing loss. As of now, The Giants remain first in the NFC East standings, and the Commanders remain at third. Moving into Week 11, the Giants must evaluate their late-game decision-making, ball security, and ability to capitalize on opportunities. If New York hopes to maintain its position at the top of the NFC East, minimizing costly mistakes will be essential moving forward in the season.
