It may not have looked eye-popping. In fact, the numbers look boring. But one thing is simple: the New York Giants have found their franchise quarterback. His name is Daniel Jones.
Forget his rough start to his NFL career (although many will never forget his fourth-quarter comeback against Tampa Bay in 2019). Don’t bring up the numerous head coaches and coordinators that have come and gone through this organization—especially you, Jason Garrett.
Silence The Doubters
The Giants sit at 8-5-1 with a chance to clinch a playoff spot if they beat the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday (and other scenarios need to occur as well).
However, it’s clear one of the main reasons behind this surprise season is Jones himself. Despite losing Sterling Shepard (injury), Kadarius Toney (trade), and mostly Kenny Golladay (unplayable), the former Duke quarterback has managed to produce with the guys around him. With no true WR1, he is on pace to throw for over 3000 yards and potentially set a career-high in passing yards.
Also, it’s worth noting Jones has only thrown four interceptions this year, which is tied for the least a quarterback has thrown so far this season. His play has improved dramatically, and he is a WR1 away from becoming a top-10 quarterback.
Many criticized him for not being able to win in primetime. But, he silenced the doubters with a win over the Commanders on Sunday night. It increased the Giants’ playoff odds to 88%. Though he failed to increase his touchdown streak to five, he managed to produce almost 200 yards of offense with his arm and legs.
The coaching staff is starting to trust him more too.
HUGE 4th and 9 conversion from Daniel Jones to Richie James to get to the 2 minute warning. pic.twitter.com/Ru85M3dFkL
— Doug Rush (@TheDougRush) December 19, 2022
Fourth and long. Daboll trusted Jones and allowed him to stay on the field. The quarterback rewarded his coach, and the drive would ultimately end up with a touchdown by Saquon Barkley.
Overall, Daniel Jones has played well enough to be a top-15 quarterback right now in the NFL. With the exception of passing touchdowns, he is hovering around the top ten in passing yards. His QBR of 57.1 is good for 12th in the league. His passer rating of 90.5 is better than guys like Derek Carr, Tom Brady, Justin Fields, and others.
With three games left, Jones and the Giants have a chance to continue their surprise season and make the playoffs. If their quarterback continues to improve every week, who knows how this magical run may end? A trip to Arizona would be a great place to be come February.
Other Headlines
- The Giants waived 2020 seventh-round linebacker Tae Crowder. Landon Collins is one candidate to replace him on the active roster
- Running backs Darrell Henderson, Abram Smith, and Nate McCrary worked out with the team on Tuesday.
- Coach Brian Daboll has said that safety Xavier McKinney (hand) will be available for Sunday’s game against Minnesota. Corner Adoree’ Jackson (knee) could also join him as well.
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