Articles

 

By Michael Stewart

The Giants continue their losing ways despite making a quarterback change with their lost to the Oakland Raiders 24-17. With the loss, the 2-10 Giants are now currently holding the 2nd overall pick in the upcoming 2018 NFL draft this spring with only four games remaining. The victory keeps the Raiders playoff hopes alive at 6-6 as they travel to Kansas City next Sunday. Giants quarterback, Geno Smith fumbled twice in his debut for the Giants as Derek Carr utilized all of his weapons connecting with eight different receivers.

Top reasons why the Giants lost:

  1. Giant’s running game-vs-Raiders running game: The Raiders entered today’s game averaging 91.0 yards per game to the Giants 91.3. Something had to give and in my preview; I had this matchup as one of the keys for the Giants. Unfortunately; the Giants defensive front 7 didn’t have an answer for Marshawn Lynch who rushed for over 100 yards (101) for the first time this season.
  2. Turnovers: The Giants clearly had an edge in this department entering the game against the Raiders. Unfortunately; they couldn’t generate enough turnovers (only 1) to capitalize on it. The Raiders however did benefit from the Giants mishaps.
  3. Big plays: This has been the theme for the Giants for most of the season, giving up big plays. This time it was the Raiders who had big plays to lead them to victory. Running Back Marshawn Lynch 51 yards Touchdown run and wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson’s 59 yard reception.

Hero: Going to give to running back Marshawn Lynch who neutralized the Giants defense with his physical play. His 51 yard touchdown was his longest run from scrimmage this season.

Goat: I’m still very upset and disappointed in the way the Giants handled the Eli Manning situation. So therefore, Head Coach Ben McAdoo, GM Jerry Reese and the Giants owners (Mara and Tisch) all get my vote for goat of the game.

Final Thoughts: The Giants were out gained 401 to 265 in total yards, they were beaten in many offensive and defensive categories in this game and deserve to lose. The Giants will now wait to play the Cowboys at Met life Stadium next Sunday in a game the Cowboys have to win. The only saving grace for the Giants will be that they won’t have to worry about Ezekiel Elliott who will be still serving his suspension. Regardless, the Giants will have their hands full against a Cowboys team that still has weapons; especially quarterback Dak Prescott.