Daniel Jones Dismisses Negative Narrative Ahead of Seahawks Game
SEATTLE — After six seasons as a New York Giants quarterback, Daniel Jones is well-acquainted with the challenges of the New York media landscape. Reflecting on the highs, like the 2022 playoff victory, and lows of his career, Jones acknowledged the constant presence of evolving narratives. “There will always be a story of the week or a kind of idea that’s out there,” Jones explained on Sunday. “It’s our job to know what’s real and know what’s going on. To fix the problems that are real but also to ignore the things that aren’t.”
Giants Triumph Over Seahawks
This past week, Jones and his teammates faced skepticism heading into their game against the Seattle Seahawks, especially with the absence of key players like rookie sensation Malik Nabers and starting running back Devin Singletary. Previous narratives suggested a bleak outlook after an ugly loss to the Dallas Cowboys, with predictions of the Giants falling to 1-4. However, the Giants defied expectations, delivering their most complete performance of the year in a 29-20 victory.
Jones Shines with Strong Performance
Jones showcased maturity and skill throughout the game, throwing for 257 yards and two touchdowns on 23-of-34 passing. Unlike the previous week’s strong numbers without a win, this time, his performance aligned perfectly with the scoreboard. Right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor praised Jones’ confidence: “It all started with DJ just dicing the defense up.”
Overcoming a Challenging Start
Despite a rocky start, which included a fumble on the Giants’ first offensive play, Jones quickly regrouped and led an 81-yard touchdown drive to tie the game. He exhibited versatility by rushing 11 times for 38 yards, marking his most significant ground performance since the 2023 opener. Although taking significant hits, he impressed his teammates, as Eluemunor noted, “That man does not feel pain.”
The Giants’ rushing game was bolstered by rookie Tyrone Tracy Jr., who filled in for Singletary with 129 rushing yards on 18 carries. The team’s passing game thrived as well, with Jones completing two deep passes to veteran receiver Darius Slayton, including a crucial 30-yard touchdown.
Optimism Moving Forward
Jones’s continued success, even in the absence of leading target Nabers, combined with the offensive progress each week, offers hope for Giants fans. Over his last four games, Jones completed 67.6% of his passes, accumulating 952 yards, six touchdowns, and just one interception. His performance has significantly improved, ranking sixth in the league for expected points added (EPA) per dropback.
Coach Brian Daboll commended Jones’s resilience and growth: “He’s played some good football here. We’re going to need him to continue to do that.” With the Giants now at 2-3, Jones expressed confidence in his ongoing development. “I feel like I’m a better player than I was then. That’s what you’re always striving for,” he stated, focused on continuous improvement and readiness for upcoming challenges.
(Photo: Rio Giancarlo / Getty Images)
Source and credits: www.nytimes.com
Cats: