EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The New York Giants faced another defeat, this time against the Dallas Cowboys, with a final score of 20-15. While the score was closer than in previous matchups last year, Giants coach Brian Daboll emphasized progress, though he remains winless against the Cowboys at 0-5, and the Giants have lost 14 out of their last 15 games against Dallas.
Despite the loss, there were signs of improvement, especially from quarterback Daniel Jones. He produced a solid performance, completing 72.5 percent of his passes (29-of-40) for 281 yards. He was sacked only once, and although he threw an interception, it occurred as he attempted a Hail Mary pass in desperation at the end of the game.
Assessing Daboll’s claims of improvement can vary by perspective. A quarterback’s performance often shapes the overall outcome of a game, and while Jones showed promise, it appeared to be insufficient.
Daboll might make a case for encouraging stats from Jones over the past few games, excluding an earlier contest against Minnesota in which Jones was returning from an ACL injury. In his last three games, Jones has completed 67.6 percent of his passes for 695 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception, showcasing an EPA/dropback comparable to Dak Prescott’s when he was a top MVP candidate last season.
However, for those reluctant to fully endorse Jones’ performance due to his team’s scoring challenges—averaging just 18 points per game during this span—one can acknowledge his efficiency. He has protected the ball well, recording only one interception and no fumbles, along with minimizing sacks.
Notably, the Giants struggled to convert scoring opportunities, failing to reach the end zone despite Jones leading five scoring drives. “We’re expected to score touchdowns and put points on the board,” Jones stated. He noted the frustration in the team’s inability to execute in the red zone.
Equally troubling was the running game’s lack of productivity, averaging just 1.1 yards per carry against a previously struggling Dallas rushing defense. Additionally, Jones missed key deep pass opportunities, notably underthrowing receivers on several occasions, including a significant chance to hit Darius Slayton.
Jones acknowledged the need to connect on those deeper attempts, as the offense cannot afford to squander chances. While he performed well overall, the team’s struggles have overshadowed individual accomplishments. Daboll commended him for being focused and delivering under pressure but recognized the importance of turning solid performances into victories.
With a better offensive line and emerging talent like Malik Nabers, Jones has tools at his disposal, but translating that into wins is crucial as the season progresses. If good performances aren’t enough, Jones must elevate his game further to secure the success his team desperately needs.