EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Brian Daboll’s status as an offensive mastermind is under scrutiny as the New York Giants struggle to find their rhythm. Since hiring the former Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator in 2022, the franchise aimed to enhance quarterback Daniel Jones’ skills and rejuvenate an offense that had been hampered by a lack of talent and inadequate offensive lines.
While the team did not expect Daboll to transform Jones into a premier quarterback like Josh Allen, there was hope that he would evolve the 2019 sixth overall pick into a reliable passer and a threatening runner capable of generating points. Now, more than two years into his leadership, the Giants face ongoing scoring challenges. In their recent matchup against Cincinnati, they fell short with a 17-7 loss, despite an impressive showing from their defense against one of the league’s top offenses.
With only 96 points across six games, the Giants—now sitting at a 2-4 record—are averaging a mere 16 points per game. They have mustered only 28 points in three home matches, ranking them among the lowest in the NFC, with only the Los Angeles Rams faring worse. The situation appears dire, particularly after New York made several offseason enhancements, including drafting playmaking receiver Malik Nabers with the sixth overall pick and reworking the offensive line that had allowed an alarming 85 sacks the previous year.
Unfortunately, Nabers has been sidelined for the last two games due to a concussion. This season, Daboll took on the role of offensive play-caller from coordinator Mike Kafka, aiming to add more dynamism and misdirection to their game plan. While there seems to be an increase in movement and quicker throws, the effectiveness in terms of scoring remains elusive.
Despite the offensive woes, the Giants possess a defense, anchored by tackle Dexter Lawrence, that can keep them competitive in games. Yet, the offense continues to fall short in capitalizing on opportunities. Receiver Darius Slayton expressed the team’s frustration, highlighting the need to convert drives into touchdowns to acknowledge the defense’s hard work.
What’s Going Well:
The Giants’ young secondary, which includes Deonte Banks, Cor’Dale Flott, Tyler Nubin, Jason Pinnock, and Dru Phillips, performed admirably against Cincinnati’s quarterback Joe Burrow, who boasted a recent career-high in touchdown passes. They limited Burrow to 208 yards and no touchdowns, while receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins were held in check with modest receiving yards.
Where Improvement is Needed:
The Giants struggled to deliver any explosive plays, with their longest completions being four passes from Jones, each reaching just 15 yards. A potential 56-yard catch-and-run by Slayton was negated due to a penalty, and the team’s primary rushing threat came from Jones, who managed 56 yards on 11 carries.
Players on the Rise:
Edge rushers Brian Burns and Azeez Ojulari stood out, particularly Burns, who recorded eight tackles, a sack, and two tackles for loss in his best performance yet in a Giants uniform. Ojulari, stepping in for the injured Kayvon Thibodeaux, contributed with two sacks and additional impactful tackles.
Players Struggling:
Kicker Greg Joseph faced criticism after missing two key field goals, including a crucial attempt from 47 yards that could have changed the game’s dynamics. Another missed attempt from 45 yards late in the game sealed his unproductive outing.
Injury Update:
In addition to Nabers, starting running back Devin Singletary has also been absent for the last two games. Punter Jamie Gillan was sidelined due to a hamstring issue, but Matt Haack stepped in and averaged 46.8 yards on his punts. Meanwhile, left tackle Andrew Thomas sustained a knock during the game; Daboll did not provide a status update shortly afterward.
Notable Statistic:
The Giants have gone winless in their three home games this season, a stark contrast to what fans expected going into the year.
Looking Ahead:
Next week brings another home game, where the Giants will prepare to welcome back star running back Saquon Barkley, who faces off against the rival Philadelphia Eagles.