The New York Giants’ struggles continued over the weekend, culminating in a narrow 14-11 defeat to the New Orleans Saints. As frustration mounts among fans, a small plane flew over MetLife Stadium prior to the game, carrying a banner that read, “Mr. Mara, enough. Please fix this dumpster fire!” This message was directed at co-owner John Mara, highlighting the dissatisfaction of a fan base that has witnessed the team make the playoffs only twice since their last Super Bowl victory in February 2012.
With the Giants now sitting at 2-11 and on an eight-game losing streak—just one loss shy of the franchise record—Mara and co-owner Steve Tisch are under increasing pressure to make significant changes. The team has struggled for several seasons, with seven of the last eight concluding with losing records. This includes the 2019 season, which saw a franchise-record tying nine consecutive losses.
While the immediate reaction may be to dismiss head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen, who both joined the team in 2022 and led the Giants to a playoff appearance with a 9-7-1 record, the decision is more complex. Since that promising start, the team has posted a disappointing 11-28-1 record. Mara and Tisch must weigh whether to continue with Schoen and Daboll, who they believe can turn the franchise around, or to make a change.
Defensive Improvements
Amid the turmoil, there were some positives to note in the Giants’ defense. Despite injuries to key players, including Pro Bowler Dexter Lawrence and D.J. Davidson, the defense held the Saints to just 92 rushing yards—a significant improvement given that opponents had been averaging nearly 146 yards per game against the Giants.
Offensive Struggles
Conversely, the Giants’ offense remains a significant concern. They are currently the lowest-scoring team in the NFL, having surpassed 20 points just four times in 13 games. With nine games scoring 18 points or fewer, including four games with single-digit scores, a change in play-calling may be necessary. Daboll, who took over play-calling duties from Mike Kafka this season, could consider allowing quarterbacks coach Shea Tierney to take the reins.
Player Highlights and Injuries
Linebacker Micah McFadden stood out in the loss, recording a team-high 11 tackles, including five for losses, while rookie Darius Muasau added eight tackles in place of the injured Bobby Okereke. However, the offensive line faced challenges, missing left tackle Jermaine Eluemunor and losing guard Jon Runyan and center John Michael Schmitz to injuries during the game. The Saints registered two sacks and 13 quarterback hits, while the Giants’ rushing yards were bolstered primarily by quarterback Drew Lock’s scrambling efforts.
Injuries also plagued the Giants, with safety Tyler Nubin and cornerback Tre Hawkins exiting the game, and Lock requiring postgame X-rays and an MRI. Daboll indicated that Lock would start against the Baltimore Ravens if he is healthy.
Looking Ahead
As the Giants prepare to face Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens (8-5) next Sunday, they are on the brink of matching their franchise-worst losing streak at nine games. Ending this skid and securing a victory at MetLife Stadium for the first time this season has become a critical challenge for the struggling franchise.
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