EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The New York Giants have been struggling on the field for some time, with indicators of disappointment surfacing again during the past weekend.
A small aircraft was seen flying over MetLife Stadium about an hour and a half prior to the Giants’ defeat against the New Orleans Saints, which ended 14-11 on Sunday. The message flew a banner directed at co-owner John Mara, calling for significant changes to a franchise that has made postseason appearances only twice since securing the Super Bowl title in 2012.
“Mr. Mara, enough. Please fix this dumpster fire!” the banner read.
While Mara did not comment on the aerial protest, the frustration echoed loud and clear. It was evident that at least one disgruntled fan and likely many others were fed up with the Giants’ performance, as the team’s record now stands at 2-11, following an eight-game losing streak—just one loss shy of tying the franchise’s record for consecutive defeats.
Mara and co-owner Steve Tisch must certainly be taking note of the mounting dissatisfaction among fans. No ownership group wants to see their supporters unhappy, and this concern goes beyond just the current season.
In fact, seven out of the last eight seasons have concluded with losing records for the Giants. This includes the dismal 2019 campaign, which tied for the worst with a franchise-record nine consecutive losses. Furthermore, there are two other noted nine-game losing stretches—the first in 1976, and the second during the 2003-04 seasons.
Now, Mara and Tisch face tough choices ahead. The immediate reflex might suggest firing head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen, who both joined the organization in 2022 and initially steered the team to the playoffs with a 9-7-1 record, including an impressive start of seven wins in their first nine games. However, since then, the Giants have managed a dismal 11-28-1 record.
The late Robert E. Mulcahy, who previously led the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and later served as Rutgers’ athletic director, once shared that his toughest decision involved retaining head coach Greg Schiano, despite a 12-34 record during his first four seasons amid a clamoring for his dismissal. Mulcahy believed in his choice, held firm, and ultimately it paid off.
Mara and Tisch must weigh a similar dilemma concerning Daboll and Schoen. If they believe these men are capable of reviving the team, they need to maintain their support. If the outlook seems bleak, then changes must be made.
They must not allow an emotional fan base to dictate their direction.
What’s working so far is the revamped defensive line. Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence and fellow defensive tackle D.J. Davidson were placed on the injured reserve last week, while Rakeem Nunez-Roches was sidelined with neck and shoulder injuries. This left backups, including Elijah Chatman, Jordon Riley, newly signed Corey Durdon, and practice squad additions Elijah Garcia and Casey Rogers, responsible for containing Alvin Kamara and the Saints. Remarkably, New Orleans was restricted to just 92 rushing yards, significantly lower than the almost 146-yard average given up by the Giants against opposing teams.
Conversely, the Giants continue to struggle as the NFL’s lowest-scoring team, having surpassed the 20-point threshold only four times in 13 games. They have registered scores of 18 points or fewer on nine occasions and were held to single digits in four games. Daboll, who took over play-calling from Mike Kafka this season, might consider allowing quarterbacks coach Shea Tierney a shot at calling plays to spark some offensive improvement.
Micah McFadden stood out during the latest game, leading the team with a remarkable 11 tackles, five of which were for losses, while rookie Darius Muasau, filling in for injured Bobby Okereke, recorded eight tackles.
On the downside, the offensive line struggled significantly. Left tackle Jermaine Eluemunor continued to miss games, and left guard Jon Runyan (ankle) and center John Michael Schmitz (neck) went out during the second half of the recent game. The Saints’ defense wreaked havoc on quarterback Drew Lock, registering two sacks and 13 quarterback hits. The Giants managed to rush for 112 yards, largely due to Lock scrambling for 59 yards to escape further pressure.
Injuries continued to plague the team, as safety Tyler Nubin (ankle) and cornerback Tre Hawkins left the match after sustaining injuries. Lock himself required postgame X-rays and an MRI on Monday, yet Daboll confirmed that Lock would start again on Sunday if he is fit to play.
A key number to keep in mind is 9, which signifies that the Giants are just one loss away from equaling their franchise’s worst losing streak.
Moving ahead, the Giants aim to end their ongoing losing streak and secure a victory at MetLife Stadium after eight unsuccessful attempts. To achieve this, they must overcome Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, who currently hold an 8-5 record, in the upcoming game on Sunday.
