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[New York Giants]

NY Giants head-coaching search: How desirable is the job?

The New York Giants want to believe their head-coaching opening is a desirable one that any top candidate in the upcoming hiring cycle will have interest in.

Remember what GM Joe Schoen, who may or may not keep his job, said a few weeks ago? He said that head coach of the Giants “will be an attractive job for many coaches,” and that “The calls we’ve gotten, I think we’re going to be able to fill the job.”

ESPN’s Bill Barnwell doesn’t seem convinced that candidates will be lining up for the job quite the way the Giants envision. In a post ranking the eight jobs he thinks “might” come open at season’s end, Barnwell ranked the Giants’ vacancy No. 5. His list:

1. Cincinnati Bengals
2. Arizona Cardinals
3. Cleveland Browns
4. Tennessee Titans
5. Giants
6. Atlanta Falcons
7. Miami Dolphins
8. Las Vegas Raiders

Now, let’s dissect some of Barnwell’s reasons for putting the Giants firmly in the middle of his list.

Barnwell writes:

Coaches were expected to be thrilled at the possibility of working with Jaxson Dart, who got off to a promising start during his rookie season. Dart wasn’t winning many games, but his competitiveness, mobility and big-play ability made him an immediate fan favorite alongside fellow rookie Cam Skattebo, who was lost for the year with a serious ankle injury.

But Dart’s inability to avoid big hits and injuries is quickly becoming concerning. Sunday was the fifth time in 10 starts that he has been forced to leave the game to undergo a concussion evaluation, and he missed losses to the Packers and Lions. Kafka has taken the designed quarterback runs that the Giants leaned on early in Dart’s tenure out of the playbook. Removing scrambles, sneaks and kneel-downs from the equation, Dart had 24 designed runs in his seven starts before his concussion, per NFL Next Gen Stats. That has dropped to three over the two starts he has made since missing time.

Without his role in the quarterback run game, it’s unclear whether Dart is really as promising of a quarterback as he might have seemed.

Valentine’s View:

What, precisely, has Dart done wrong in the two games he has played since returning from his concussion that would make his stock drop in the eyes of potential coaching candidates?

Dart has completed 37 of 60 passes (61.7%) with three touchdowns and an interception in losses to the Patriots and Commanders. Is it Dart’s fault Jalin Hyatt can’t run a proper in-cut? Or that Darius Slayton dropped a touchdown pass he had both hands on? Or that the Giants can’t make a field goal? Or tackle a punt returner?

If anything, in my eyes Dart is showing that he can play quarterback without also having to play running back.

I don’t know what sort of NFL quarterback Dart will turn out to be. I do know that NFL Draft analysts are already saying he would be the No. 1 quarterback in the 2026 class, and thus the No. 1 overall pick. Yes, he had a concussion. Yes, he needs to continue to learn to protect himself for the long-term good of his career.

If you aren’t excited about working with Dart and finding out what the ceiling is with him, then you aren’t the head coach the Giants need or should want in the first place.

Barnwell also has this to say about the elephant in the room — Schoen:

The other issue is general manager Joe Schoen, whom ownership backed as part of the future when it fired Daboll in midseason. Schoen’s top-100 selections have been mixed at best during his time in New York, with major disappointments like Evan Neal and Deonte Banks joining the organization as first-round picks. Schoen oversaw the decisions to move on from Saquon Barkley and Xavier McKinney in free agency before the 2024 season, one year after the Giants elected to sign Daniel Jones to a four-year contract and use the franchise tag on Barkley.

There have been positives, of course. Nabers and Abdul Carter look like potential building blocks on both sides of the ball, and they’re in the middle of rookie contracts. The offensive line is in better shape than it had been over the past few years, although that’s an extremely low bar. Dart and Skattebo have the potential to be playmakers, though they’ll have to change their playing styles to stay healthy.

More than anything, though, the decision to retain Schoen and hire a new coach creates different timelines within the organization. Schoen and Daboll were hired together from Buffalo at the same time. There were no questions, at least for their first three years together, about whether they were compatible or working together. Schoen and Daboll each took their jobs in North Jersey knowing that the other guy wanted them in the building.

Now? That’s up in the air. Schoen will obviously hire someone he feels compatible with, but if the Giants decide to move on from Schoen in 2027 or 2028, it would create another mismatched timeline between the coach they hire now and the next general manager. Will that new personnel executive want to hire his own coach? Will the Giants just fire this next coach, as they (deservedly) did with Joe Judge after two seasons, so the next general manager can enter the building with his handpicked guy? Will there be more pressure on the next coach to succeed in a shortened time frame as a result? And if Dart proves to be a disappointment or can’t stay healthy, will this next coach get to go after the next quarterback?

Valentine’s View:

Much of what Barnwell writes here is accurate. If you want to poke holes in Schoen’s work with the Giants, you don’t need a magnifying glass. Mention his 20-44-1 won-loss record, drop the names Daniel Jones, Saquon Barkley, Neal, and Banks, and throw in what ‘Hard Knocks’ looked like a couple of offseasons ago, toss in the word “placekicker”, and that’s a pretty good start.

Other than the won-loss record, though, everything has nuance. I’m not going to go through chapter and verse of each decision but many were thought to be proper at the time they were made. Still, the results are the results.

One thing Barnwell has wrong, though. Schoen is NOT picking the next coach. He is doing the early leg work to find out who may and may not be interested, and probably handling whatever early vetting goes on before candidates are brought in for interviews once the season ends.

Ownership more or less stepped aside and let Schoen hire his coach — Daboll — in 2022. That is not how Giants ownership has usually done things, and I would venture a guess that Daboll might not have been the choice if John Mara had not allowed his new GM to drive the bus on that decision.

Schoen is not getting that sort of say this time around. Ownership will make this decision. Schoen will have to make it work, if he is still employed. Schoen will have influence, if he still has a key card. So, too, will Tim McDonnell, Mara’s nephew and the team’s Director of Player Personnel, and Chris Mara, John’s brother. Steve Tisch will have his say.

Schoen hired “his” coach once. I can’t imagine the Giants stepping aside and letting him do it again.

I do believe in the principle that the head coach and general manager should ideally be on the same timeline. And, yes, I can see a scenario where someone like Mike Tomlin or John Harbaugh, if they were available, would demand to bring a hand-picked general manager.

Bottom line is, though, that I don’t see any reason why the Giants’ vacancy would not be thought of as desirable.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...how-desirable-is-the-job-joe-schoen-john-mara

 

[New York Giants]

NY Giants-Vikings final injury report: Punter Jamie Gillan to return

New York Giants punter Jamie Gillan, who missed last Sunday’s game against the Washington Commanders with a left (kicking) knee injury, is set to return Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. Gillan has no injury designation on Friday’s final injury report.

Veteran Cameron Johnston signed to the practice squad and punted in Gillan’s place last week. He also held for placekicks in Gillan’s absence.

The Giants likely hope Gillan’s return will not only help their struggling punt coverage team, but be a benefit to rookie placekicker Ben Sauls. Sauls will be making his NFL debut after the Giants cut Younghoe Koo after a pair of missed field goals against the Commanders.

Four Giants have been ruled out:

LB Kayvon Thibodeaux | Shoulder
DL Rakeem Nunez-Roches | Ankle
OL Evan Neal | Neck/Hamstring
WR Beaux Collins | Concussion/Neck

Thibodeaux will miss a fifth straight game, and Nunez-Roches a second straight. Neal and Collins are both on IR, but have had their practice windows opened.

The Vikings on Friday placed Christian Darrisaw, one of the NFL’s better left tackles, on injured reserve.

Final injury report​

Giants​

OUT

LB Kayvon Thibodeaux | Shoulder
DL Rakeem Nunez-Roches | Ankle
OL Evan Neal | Neck/Hamstring
WR Beaux Collins| Concussion/Neck

QUESTIONABLE

LB Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles | Illness (Did not practice)
CB Art Green | Illness/Hamstring (Full practice participation)
CB Rico Payton | Back (Limited practice participation)
OL Joshua Ezeudu | Calf (Full practice participation)

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...l-injury-report-punter-jamie-gillan-to-return

 

[New York Giants]

(8) Oklahoma vs. (9) Alabama: Draft prospects for the NY Giants

Good evening New York Giants fans! Bowl Season is well and truly under way, and we have the first game of the College Football Playoffs under the Friday Night lights.

Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl​

(8) Oklahoma vs. (9) Alabama​

TV: ABC
Time: 8 p.m.

This should be an exciting game and will also be a “must watch” game from a scouting perspective.

While Alabama lost to Georgia in an embarrassing fashion in the SEC Championship, they still have a ton of future NFL players on their roster. Oklahoma, meanwhile, features talented players of their own as well as a well-schemed defense courtesy of Brent Venables.

Speaking of the Draft and scouting, the Giants might want to pay attention to Alabama receiver Germie Bernard. The injury to Malik Nabers has revealed a lack of depth in the Giants’ receiving corps, with Wan’Dale Robinson as the team’s only other natural separator. There have been far too many instances of the Giants’ receivers not getting open, forcing Jaxson Dart to hold the ball or scramble. Either way, it exposes him to risk as he takes it upon himself to make a play when his teammates can’t. Bernard has solid size at 6-foot-1, 205 pounds, with strong hands, good ball skills and body control, as well as high football IQ as a route runner. He might not be a high-ceiling WR 1b like the Giants could find at the top of the first round, but he could be a good possession receiver and a dependable number two across from Nabers.

It’s also notable that Robinson is a free agent after the season, and the team could be left with a particularly bare cupboard even with Nabers returning.

Oklahoma’s John Mateer is another fascinating case. He got off to a hot start at the beginning of the season and looked like he built upon a promising 2024 season to become a first round pick. Then he suffered an injury to his throwing hand and his play (understandably) fell off a cliff. Mateer has said that he feels better than at any point following the injury, but we’ll just have to see whether that translates to better play on the field.

The two quarterbacks will be one of the bigger stories of the game. Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson could be one of the first two or three quarterbacks off the board in April — assuming he decides to come out.

Players to watch​

(8) Oklahoma

• John Mateer (QB – 10)
• Jaren Kanak (TE – 12)
• Deion Burks (WR – 4)
• Jayden Ott (RB – 0)
• Damonic Williams (iDL – 52)
• Gracen Halton (iDL – 56)
• R. Mason Thomas (DE/EDGE – 32)
• Sammy Omosigho (LB – 7)
• Kendal Daniels (S/LB – 5)
• Peyton Bowen (S – 22)

(9) Alabama

• Ty Simpson (QB – 15)
• Kadyn Proctor (OT – 74)
• Parker Brailsford (OC – 72)
• Jaeden Roberts (OG – 77)
• Josh Cuevas (TE – 80)
• Germie Bernard (WR – 5)
• Tim Keenan III (iDL – 96)
• Deontae Lawson (LB – 0)
• Domani Jackson (CB – 1)
• Keon Sabb (S – 3)
• Bray Hubbard (S – 18)

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...vs-9-alabama-draft-prospects-for-theny-giants

 

[New York Giants]

College Football Playoffs round 1: Draft prospects for the NY Giants

Good morning New York Giants fans! Happy Saturday and welcome back to Bowl Season.

The first round of the College Football Playoffs got started last night with the matchup between (8) Oklahoma and (9) Alabama, and today we have three more playoff games.

Saturday starts off with (7) Texas A&M vs. (10) Miami, followed by (6) Ole Miss vs. (11) Tulane, and the day is capped by (5) Oregon vs. (12) James Madison. Today’s games should feature a number of draft prospects, as well as a pair of teams we haven’t really focused on in Tulane and JMU. So without further ado, let’s get into it.

(7) Texas A&M vs. (10) Miami​

ESPN – noon

We get what should be the best game of the day first thing. While they’d never admit it, I suspect the college schedule makers put the games featuring Tulane and JMU against the NFL’s games at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Giants fans will want to watch the line of scrimmage, and any potential matchup between TAMU edge defender Cashius Howell and Miami right tackle Francis Mauigoa. Mauigoa is a big, stout lineman at 6-foot-6, 320 pounds who’s a powerful run blocker and a reliable pass protector — at least at the collegiate level. There are some who question whether Mauigoa will be able to stay at tackle in the NFL, and this promises to be a good test.

Players to watch​

(7) Texas A&M

• Chase Bisontis (OG – 71)
• Ar’maj Reed-Adams (OG – 55)
• Trey Zuhn III (OT – 60)
• K.C. Concepcion (WR – 7)
• Albert Regis (iDL – 17)
• Cashius Howell (EDGE – 9)
• Taurean York (LB – 21)
• Will Lee III (CB – 4)

(10) Miami

• Carson Beck (QB – 11)
• Francis Mauigoa (OT – 61)
• C.J. Daniels (WR – 7)
• Reuben Bane (DE / EDGE – 4)
• Akheem Mesidor (DE / EDGE – 3)I
• Keionte Scott (CB – 0)

(6) Ole Miss vs. (11) Tulane​

TNT / HBO Max / TruTV – 3:30 p.m.

This game marks the start of the post-Lane Kiffin era for Ole Miss. But even so, it would be a definite upset if Tulane manages to in this game.

For Giants’ fans, Ole Miss defensive tackle Zxavian Harris bears watching. He’s an imposing presence at 6-foot-8, 330 pounds with plus run defense skills as well as some pass rush upside. He’s primarily a B-gap player for Ole Miss, which could fit well with Dexter Lawrence at nose tackle, and he has 4 sacks, 3 hits, 14 QB hurries to his name this year.

Players to watch​

(6) Ole Miss

• Trinidad Chambliss (QB – 6)
• De’Zhaun Stribling (WR – 1)
• Dae’Quan Wright (TE – 8)
• Zxavian Harris (iDL – 51)
• Princewill Umanmielen (EDGE – 1)
• Suntarine Perkins (LB – 4)

(11) Tulane

• Jake Retzlaff (QB – 12)
• John Bock II (OL – 51)
• Ty Thompson (TE – 13)
• Mo Westmoreland (EDGE – 0)

(5) Oregon vs. (12) James Madison​

TNT / HBO Max / TruTV – 7:30 p.m.

Credit to JMU for making it to the dance, but this is another one where the lower-ranked team winning would be a colossal upset.

From the Giants’ persepctive, Oregon QB Dante Moore might be the player to watch in this game — not as a draft target, but as potential trade bait. Moore is a 20-year old red-shirt sophomore with very limited starting experience, so it would likely behoove him to return to school. However, this year’s quarterback class is a weak one outside of Fernando Mendoza, and he would likely be one of the top two (or three, if Alabama’s Ty Simpson comes out) off the board in April. That could create a much-needed opportunity for the Giants to trade down and acquire more picks.

Elsewhere, defensive tackle A’Mauri Washington should definitely interest the Giants and Giants fans. Washington is a big, powerful defensive tackle who excels at clogging interior gaps (usually the B-gap) as well as batting down passes (6 on the season). He doesn’t have much pass rush production (2 sacks, 2 hits), but does have 13 hurries to his credit.

Players to watch​

(5) Oregon

• Dante Moore (QB – 5)
• Isaiah World (OT – 76)
• Emmanuel Pregnon (OG – 75)
• Iapani Laloulu (OC – 72)
• Kenyon Sadiq (TE – 18)
• A’Mauri Washington (iDL – 52)
• Matayo Uiagalelei (EDGE – 10)
• Bryce Boettcher (LB – 28)
• Dillon Thieneman (S – 31)

(12) James Madison

• George Pettaway (RB – 6)
• Jacob Thomas (S – 7)

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...ffs-round-1-draft-prospects-for-the-ny-giants

 

[New York Giants]

NFL Week 16 betting advice: Giants-Vikings picks and props

Welcome to the New York Giants betting angle, Week 16 edition. Each week, I’m giving you my three favorite wagers for that week’s New York Giants game. My one rule: I won’t ever give you wagers that are less than -120. No gimmies here.

The Giants had high hopes for a win at home last week, but ran their losing streak to eight games when they fell 29-21 to a Commanders team that came in riding their own eight-game losing streak. Big Blue stays at home this Sunday to face another losing team with nothing to play for – the 6-8 Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings have disappointed after their 14-3 campaign a year ago, but they’ve won two straight behind a resurgent J.J. McCarthy. This is their third consecutive game against an NFC East opponent and they’re looking for the sweep. Much like the Giants, one of the Vikings’ priorities this season has been to try to figure out if their long-term answer at quarterback is on their current roster.

The line on FanDuel is MIN -2.5, with a game total of 43.5. Temperatures in the 40s accompanied by light to moderate winds are expected in East Rutherford on Sunday afternoon, so December weather shouldn’t be an issue.

My picks were 2-1 last week. Both of my props hit, but my spread bet on the G-Men missed. The line and total are stay-aways for me this week. I’m done trying to predict if on any given week these Giants will cover a number, and especially with their special teams regularly costing them points. For a team that’s 2-12, they’re maddening to handicap against the spread (7-7 ATS).

Here are this week’s picks. All lines and odds are from FanDuel and are as of Friday, Dec. 19.

1. Justin Jefferson Anytime TD (+125). I’ll start this week’s action with a bet with longer odds. Why not? It’s Week 16 – let’s take some risk to win some holiday shopping money! Jefferson has been invisible the last three weeks. He hasn’t topped 25 yards or scored in any of those contests – it’s the worst three-game stretch of his brilliant young career. He also only has two TD catches on the entire season. So why on earth am I taking this prop? Why am I taking something that’s this far into plus-money when I’m trying to have a winning record with my picks? And why should you consider listening to me? Good questions, all. My reasoning: I believe the slump ends Sunday, against a vulnerable Giants’ secondary that has proven all year that it can’t cover a wideout like Jefferson. Jefferson had one TD called back last week, and another slipped through his hands when McCarthy threw him a Randy Johnson fastball when he didn’t need to. I think Minnesota will make a concerted effort to end the JJ-JJ slump this week, and Jefferson will spike the football at least once. It’s contrarian, but hey, sometimes you have to zag.

• Aaron Jones, Sr. OVER 53.5 rushing yards (-114). The Giants can’t stop the run, and I expect a heavy dose of ground and pound from the Vikings as they try to avoid putting the game on McCarthy’s mistake-prone right arm. Jones has only bested this total three times this season, but that’s misleading as he’s been in and out of the lineup with various injuries. The main concern with this total is his backfield split with Jordan Mason. The Giants are giving up around six yards per carry over their last six games, so I don’t think Jones will need a lot of attempts to get to this total. For the season, Big Blue is allowing 153.6 rushing yards per game. Only the Bengals give up more than that, and only by a few yards. There should be enough easy yards there for both backs. Take the over.

• Tyrone Tracy, Jr. OVER 69.5 rushing and receiving yards (-114). Another RB over? Sure, why not. I don’t think the market is properly pricing Tracy, so let’s take advantage. Since Cam Skattebo’s season-ending injury, Tracy has gone over this total in four of six games (and remember, he got injured in one game), and his average scrimmage yards per game is almost 15 yards higher than this total. Yes, Brian Flores coordinates a really good defense, and while I think he’ll do things to confuse Jaxson Dart, that shouldn’t eat into Tracy’s effectiveness or workload. The Vikings are down a couple of key defenders, which will help. Tracy’s snap share with Devin Singletary has ping-ponged the last bunch of weeks, but against the Commanders last week, Tracy played a season-high 76% of the snaps, and tallied 97 scrimmage yards on 18 touches. He should get some looks in the passing game, just like last week. I like this prop to go over.

Those are the picks for Week 16. Good luck with your wagers, and Happy Holidays!

Do you play fantasy football? Check out my Week 16 Fantasy Playoff Preview, right here at Big Blue View.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...betting-advice-giants-vikings-picks-and-props

 

[New York Giants]

NY Giants-Vikings, NFL Week 16: Live in-game updates, scores, discussion

The 2-12 New York Giants try to snap an eight-game losing streak and avoid the possibility of the franchise’s first two-win season since 1974, when NFL teams played just 14 games, on Sunday. The 6-8 Minnesota Vikings will be the opponent at MetLife Stadium, with kickoff at 1 p.m. ET.

The Giants will be 2.5-point underdogs, per FanDuel Sportsbook.

In-game updates​

Second half updates​

Illegal contact on Byron Murphy bails Giants out of a 4th and 9 and gives then a first down.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T20:50:13.317Z

Drop by Darius Slayton brings out the boo birds, justifiably. That's a 20-yard completion that would have given the Giants a chance. Gotta catch it.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T20:49:18.567Z

Will Reichard is good from 30 yards. Vikings retake the lead, 16-13 https://t.co/iNInE5Lr7I

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 21, 2025

Safety Tyler Nubin is down on the field.

Now Tyler Nubin is down. Trainers are being very cautious with him.

— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) December 21, 2025

Nubin walked off under his own power. Maybe a stinger? He had one earlier in the season.

— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) December 21, 2025

Giants were out of sorts and had to burn a timeout. Bobby Okereke, who never leaves the field went to the sideline after making that tackle. That seemed to be the root of the confusion.

— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) December 21, 2025

Jaxson Dart pacing the Giants' sideline, from the sideline back to the bench and back again.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 21, 2025

Brian Burns has returned to the game.

Burns just ran out of the tent with his helmet. Looks like he'll return.

— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) December 21, 2025

Justin Jefferson does Justin Jefferson things after the sack, picking up 22 yards for the first down.

3rd and 17 and Justin Jefferson with a fantastic 22-yard catch for a first down. wow!

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T20:29:14.846Z

Abdul Carter SACK

: FOX pic.twitter.com/Ty0Qt3N8Qr

— New York Giants (@Giants) December 21, 2025

And let's just say Brian Burns is not happy with someone on Minnesota. He was shaken up and is coming off to the sideline with the training staff, now in the medical tent. Was jawing with some Viking. https://t.co/9A9TGdSbYu

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 21, 2025

Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, and Dexter Lawrence weren’t on the field for the start of the Vikings drive, but returned for second down. Carter executed a fantastic rush through the A-gap for the sack.

Abdul Carter with another sack. He has one in each of the last three games.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 21, 2025

The Giants ultimately settle for a 39-yard field goal, which Ben Sauls converts. The left-footed rookie is 2 for 2 on field goals and 1-1 on extra points. The game is tied 13-13.

A 39-yard Fg by Ben Sauls and the #NYGiants and Minnesota Vikings are tied 13-13 with 11:06 to play.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T20:19:19.210Z

John Michael Schmitz walks off with trainers. So the Giants will start the fourth quarter with backups at center, left guard and left tackle. Third-and-12 from the Minnesota 48. This is four-down territory so don't need it all here.

— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) December 21, 2025

Jaxson Dart sacked on 3rd and 12. Eric Wilson bails him out with helmet to helmet hit. First down #NYGiants at the Vikings 33.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T20:14:24.392Z

Center John Michael Schmitz leaves the field after Jaxson Dart takes his fourth sack of the game.

Jaxson Dart breaks his chain and has to toss it off the field. If that's the chain from his sister, she might be a little angry.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T20:11:14.457Z

Giants convert on 4th and 2 at their own 46-yard line. Slayton catch is first by WR other than Wan'Dale Robinson today.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T20:08:32.904Z

Tyrone Tracy takes a big shot on a screen pass and the Giants are forced to punt. The team has also announced that cornerback Cor’Dale Flott is questionable with a knee injury.

INJURY UPDATES: LT Andrew Thomas (hamstring) has been downgraded to OUT.

CB Cor'Dale Flott (knee) is questionable to return.

— Dan Salomone (@Dan_Salomone) December 21, 2025

Cor'Dale Flott is questionable to return with a knee injury. Deonte Banks replaces him.

— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) December 21, 2025

Andrew Thomas (hamstring) has also been ruled out.

LT Andrew Thomas (hamstring) has been ruled out.

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 21, 2025

The Vikings are packing the line of scrimmage to try and take away the #NYGiants run at the start of the third quarter.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T19:45:47.913Z

Vikings’ QB J.J. McCarthy has been ruled out with a right hand injury, OC Ryan Kelly has been ruled out with a concussion.

The Vikings have ruled out JJ McCarthy with a hand injury.

— Ian Rapoport (@rapsheet.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T19:43:49.179Z

First half updates​

A right-hand issue for JJ McCarthy. https://t.co/giUrTG2DrE

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 21, 2025

And now J.J. McCarthy is heading to the locker room with the #Vikings' medical staff.

— Ben Goessling (@bengoessling.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T19:26:53.267Z

Reminder, the Giants will get the ball to start the second half.

Giants get an unlikely sack/fumble TD to end the half. Brian Burns with the sack/forced fumble. Tyler Nubin with the scoop and score from 27 yards. Giants within 13-10, amazingly.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T19:26:17.523Z

TOUCHDOWN GIANTS! The Giants’ defense comes up big again with their third* turnover. This time it sticks as Brian Burns gets the sack/fumble, which Tyler Nubin returns for a touchdown.

Brian Burns sack/fumble. Sack No. 15 this season. Tyler Nubin picks it up and scores 27-yard TD.

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 21, 2025

JJ McCarthy runs for 12-yard TD on 3rd and 6. Vikings extend lead to 13-3 with 2:01 left in the half.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T19:13:34.957Z

J.J. McCarthy looks for an open receiver … can't find any … but sees a lane so he runs 12 yards for a touchdown, hurdling a Giants defender on the ground for the final yard.

Vikings 13, Giants 3.

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) December 21, 2025

On 3rd and 15 Theo Johnson with a drop that turns into a pick. Minnesota ball in the red zone.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T19:08:29.542Z

Theo Johnson has short pass hit off hands. Bit high but gotta catch it. Leads to INT. Second drop of the game by Giants TE.

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 21, 2025

Vikings’ center Ryan Kelly is being evaluated for a concussion.

C Ryan Kelly is being evaluated for a concussion.

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) December 21, 2025

Vikings get 31-yard FG. Instead of a 10-3 #NYGiants lead, it's 6-3 Vikings w/4:53 left in the half.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T19:02:05.575Z

Only the Giants. Neutral zone infraction on Abdul Carter in the red zone negates 95-yard pick 6 by Jevon Holland. Instead, third and goal for Minnesota. Ugh!!

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T19:00:11.293Z

Dru Phillips gets hit with a personal foul for unnecessary roughness in all of that, and Minnesota is marching.

Ryan Kelly is up and walking slowly to the sideline with training staff. https://t.co/Uf9026heAe

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 21, 2025

Vikings get the first down. Extracurriculars afterward. Dex Lawrence fired up. Vikings C Ryan Kelly is injured.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 21, 2025

There he is, gain of 14. Fourth and 1. https://t.co/vXUhiimrYo

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 21, 2025

LT Andrew Thomas is questionable to return with a hamstring injury. https://t.co/NyDbJJn36g

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 21, 2025

Ben Sauls' first field goal is good from 27 yards.

Vikings 3, Giants 3

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 21, 2025

Thomas grabbed his right hamstring after a run to the right. He’s replaced by Marcus Mbow.

Giants left tackle Andrew Thomas is down. timeout on the field

— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) December 21, 2025

Gotta love this run heavy approach from the Giants. 18 minutes in and have not thrown an official pass.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:40:16.485Z

Giants down 3-0 after 1Q. They have the ball on the Minnesota 33-yard line. Not a single official pass attempt for Jaxson Dart in the first quarter.Giants have 10 rushes for 51 yards. Tyrone has 40 of those yards on 7 carries.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:35:37.270Z

End of the first quarter in Jersey, where the excitement is … well, it's something.

Vikings 3, Giants 0

Jaxson Dart: 0 for 0. He's dropped back to pass three times. Twice he's been sacked. One pass was negated by a holding penalty.

J.J. McCarthy: 4 of 8, 45 yards, 1 INT.

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) December 21, 2025

Ball goes through Jalen Nailor's hands for an INT

— CJ Fogler (@cjzero.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:33:04.524Z

TURNOVER GIANTS! Paulson Adebo snatches the ball out of the air on a deflection.

Whoa! An INT for Paulson Adebo on a drop/deflection by Jalen Nailor.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:30:07.346Z

For the 2nd time Justin Jefferson gets a first down on 3rd and long by making #NYGiants tacklers miss. This one on 3rd and 12.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:28:50.427Z

Both Vikings RBs Jordan Mason (ankle) and RB Aaron Jones Sr. (ankle) are questionable to return.

— Ian Rapoport (@rapsheet.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:26:05.203Z

The Giants’ drive stalls in the red zone as the Giants’ protection wilts under Brian Flores’ blitzes. Nobody gets open and Dart has nowhere to go as protection breaks down. Turnover on downs.

Giants go on 4th and 5 at the 10. Jaxson Dart sacked. Turnover on downs. No problem with that call in my view. The Giants are 2-12. Might as well go.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:23:06.576Z

#Giants fans boo a 3&8 handoff.

But #Giants going for a 4&5 at the 10-yard line.

Not much trust in Ben Sauls?

Dart sacked. Turnover on downs.

— Ryan Dunleavy (@rydunleavy) December 21, 2025

Dart sacked on 3rd and 6, but Harrison Smith penalized for helmet to helmet hit. 1st down #NYGiants at the 16.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:19:58.227Z

The Giants’ first possession gets off to a good start with two rushing first downs from Tyrone Tracy on the first two plays.

Tyrone Tracy has played well in recent weeks. Looking more like he did during his rookie season. Goes for 31 yards on first two carries vs. Vikings.

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 21, 2025

The Giants actually got huge pressure on McCarthy on that play, most from Dexter Lawrence.

A pass breakup was credited to Giants CB Cor'Dale Flott. I didn't see it, but maybe he got his hands on the pass, causing Jordan Addison to drop it. https://t.co/AUYmVnFYV1

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) December 21, 2025

Little bit of a break for the #NYGiants. Jordan Addison drops a touchdown pass. Vikings settle for 43-yard FG and an early 3-0 lead.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:10:48.640Z

The Giants force a field goal after Dexter Lawrence and Brian Burns get heavy pressure on J.J. McCarthy on 3rd and 4th. WR Jordan Addison drops a would-be touchdown and the Vikings lead 3-0 in the first quarter.

Giants playing Abdul Carter pre-snap off ball with Golston and Burns at edge, Carter just came up to line of scrimmage, hit spin move and QB hit on McCarthy on completion to Mason.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 21, 2025

The #NYGiants get Minnesota into 3rd and 11 and, typically give up the first down by not being able to make a tackle.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:05:52.422Z

The Vikings will start with the ball and excellent field position.

Ben Sauls NFL career begins with a kickoff out of bounds. Yuck. Vikings ball at the 40.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-21T18:03:52.422Z

The Giants currently own the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and are 0-4 under interim head coach Mike Kafka.

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Fans long ago turned their attention to the draft, and to who will be the next permanent coach of the Giants. Players and coaches, though, just want to remember what it feels like to win.

“I just want to win bad. I mean, that’s just really what it comes down to. We’re all eager, we just want that feeling again. So, we’re looking for it, we’re trying to find answers,” said quarterback Jaxson Dart. “And the biggest thing is just, like you said, try to keep the spirits up and encourage everybody in the locker room. And we still got three weeks left, so it’ll be really big for us to try to stack on this as a team. You only have so many opportunities with the guys in that locker room, so you definitely want to take advantage of it.”

Can the Giants find it on Sunday? Keep it here for all of the updates and discussion. Come back after the game for all of the news, opinion, and analysis.

• Giants vs. Vikings, Week 16: How to watch, listen, stream

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/game-da...eek-16-live-in-game-updates-scores-discussion

 

[New York Giants]

NY Giants NFL Draft order 2026: Where New York stands after Week 16

Another week, another loss, and the New York Giants still hold the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Giants lost in embarrassing fashion to the Minnesota Vikings, and in doing so both preserved their possession of the first pick in the draft and put their offensive needs on full display. At the same time, the Tennessee Titans upset the Kansas City Chiefs, giving the Giants a bit of breathing room in the Top 10.

Of course, the Giants’ loss, the Titans’ win, and the Las Vegas Raiders’ loss to the Houston Texans also sets up next week’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders to (potentially) be for the first overall pick.

New York currently hold the tie breaker over the Raiders thanks to the Giants’ weaker strength of schedule.

Updated NFL Draft order​

1. New York Giants (2-13)
2. Las Vegas Raiders (2-13)
3. Cleveland Browns (3-12)
4. New York Jets (3-12)
5. Tennessee Titans (3-12)
6. Arizona Cardinals (3-12)
7. Washington Commanders (4-11)
8. New Orleans Saints (5-10)
9. Cincinnati Bengals (5-10)
10. Miami Dolphins (6-9)

The Giants’ defense played well (albeit against an injured Vikings’ offense), however New York’s passing game was virtually nonexistent. That was thanks to a highly conservative gameplan called in fear of Brian Flores’ blitz-heavy defense, a depleted offensive line, and some terrible play from the Giants’ receivers.

The Giants’ offensive line and pass catchers conspired to make Dart’s life miserable.

Too often, the pass protection broke down in the face of Flores’ blitzes either resulting in hits on Dart or ineffective scrambles. And when the pass protection held up long enough to give Dart time, his pass catchers were unable to get open — or hang onto the ball when he was able to find them.

This game further reinforces the Giants’ pressing need for multiple receivers who can be reliable targets for the Giants’ young quarterback, as well as young linemen who can provide long term stability for the offensive front. The good news is that talented underclassmen receivers like Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State), Makai Lemon (USC), Chris Brazzell (Tennessee), and Ja’Kobi Lane (USC), and linemen like Olaivavega Ioane (OG, Penn State) and Caleb Lomu (OT, Utah) are declaring for the draft.

Holding the first overall pick would give the Giants the opportunity to trade down and fill multiple positions with talented players, getting some much-needed help for Dart.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...l-draft-order-2026-first-overall-pick-week-16

 

[New York Giants]

Giants-Vikings analysis: Jaxson Dart’s bad game isn’t cause for alarm

Did you REALLY think New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart was going to get through his first season in the NFL without a game like the one he had Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings? A game where he, you know, actually looked and played like a rookie quarterback?

Overmatched on Sunday against a talented defense and a fantastic coordinator with something to prove against a team he is suing, Dart had his worst game as a pro. He completed just 7 of 13 passes for 33 yards and an interception, and was probably lucky not to have a couple of other passes intercepted.

Dart looked confused at times. He looked uncertain. He looked like a quarterback who needed help and knew he really didn’t have any.

Now, suddenly, because for the first time all season a rookie quarterback looked like a rookie quarterback the narrative is that Dart is regressing and that the Giants hurt the rookie’s development by firing head coach Brian Daboll.

In my view, that is an overreaction.

• Josh Allen had back-to-back starts as a rookie where he threw for 82 and 84 yards.
• Box Nix of the Denver Broncos has a game last season during which he passed for 60 yards.
• Eli Manning had a game as a rookie where he completed 4 of 18 passes for 27 yards.

All week leading up to the game Dart and the Giants talked about how this game against Flores, one of the best and most aggressive defensive schemers in the business, and a good, veteran Minnesota defense, would be the biggest challenge Dart had faced. The Giants knew this would be a difficult game and a learning experience for the rookie.

The Giants were missing their No. 1 wide receiver. In fact, they were pretty much missing any pass catcher who could actually make a play. How many times on Sunday did Justin Jefferson remind us that a great wide receiver can make just about any quarterback look better than he actually is?

The Giants played much of the game without three-fifths of their starting offensive line.

Did you really expect this one to be smooth sailing for Dart?

Yes, Mike Kafka’s Giants game plan was conservative. Perhaps a few play-action throws on first down might have been in order. Fifteen consecutive running plays is a lot, but there were two sacks and two penalties when the Giants did try to throw during that stretch.

I think the comparison BBV’s Tony DelGenio made from Sunday’s game to the Week 17 game in 2021 that made it clear Joe Judge needed to be fired is off base. In that game, the Giants were behind 14-0 before quarterback Mike Glennon completed a pass. They trailed 22-3 at halftime, yet Glennon attempted only 11 passes in the entire game. On the Giants’ final possession of the game they simply handed the ball to Saquon Barkley three straight times.

Sunday’s plan wasn’t as conservative as you might think. The Giants ran 56 total plays. They called 31 designed runs and 25 passes. Dart was sacked five times. He scrambled twice. Five passes were wiped off the board by penalties, a couple of those roughing the passer calls against Minnesota.

The makeshift offensive line didn’t help him. Dart was sacked five times, hit six, and forced to scramble on two occasions.

The second time Dart dropped back to pass he was sacked and took one of two helmet-to-helmet hits he endured during the game — without a concussion check. The third time he dropped back to pass, on a fourth-and-5 at the Minnesota 10-yard line, he got sacked. He was constantly under duress.

The pass catchers, and we have to use that term loosely, didn’t help him.

On the Giants’ second drive, Dart tried to pass twice. Theo Johnson dropped one. Dart was sacked on the other.

The next time Dart tried to pass, Johnson dropped his second pass in as many targets. This one turned into an interception that set up the Vikings in the red zone and led to a touchdown.

In the second quarter, Wan’Dale Robinson could not come up with a floater from Dart that would have been a big play with a better throw. I don’t consider that a drop. Others do. On the Giants’ final drive, Darius Slayton dropped a ball that would have given the Giants a first down around the Minnesota 45-yard line. The Giants, of course, turned the ball over on downs.

Does Dart miss Daboll? Probably. In three-and-a-half years, though, Daboll showed he wasn’t the right coach for the Giants’ TEAM. Is Kafka the answer as the next head coach? No. That’s clear.

Have the Giants already screwed up their prized rookie quarterback? If they maintain the No. 1 pick the draft, do they need to trade him and start over with Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza? No. That’s complete nonsense.

Dart played a bad game against a defense, and a masterful defensive coordinator who has made a lot of quarterbacks look terrible. He played like a confused rookie, which was bound to happen at some point.

What was clear to me is that if Dart is ever going to be the quarterback he has flashed the ability to be the Giants need to get him more help. A lot more.

More things I think​

• If you needed evidence of what a great playmaker can do for a struggling quarterback all you had to do was watch Jefferson help J.J. McCarthy and Max Brosmer on Sunday. Jefferson’s 22-yard catch on Minnesota’s game-winning drive, diving and toe-dragging, was a superstar play that made a winner out of Brosmer. Jefferson also turned several underneath throws on third-and-10 or more into catch-and-run first downs.
• It’s small consolation, but the Giants’ defense has been better and much more creative with interim coordinator Charlie Bullen at the controls. The Giants gave up just 3.7 yards per attempt against the run on Sunday, their best in a while. If Bullen ever gets an opportunity as a full-time DC, with the Giants or elsewhere, I’m curious to see how it turns out.
• I am not looking forward to this week’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, which will feature a full week of discussion about the Giants needing to lose the game so they don’t screw up having the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. I get the idea of controlling the draft, but I always hate the idea of fans rooting against their own team.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...oll-mike-kafka-minnesota-vikings-brian-flores

 

[New York Giants]

NY Giants roster move: Fill-in punter released from practice squad

The New York Giants have released veteran punter Cameron Johnston from their practice squad, per the league’s transactions wire.

Johnston, in his eighth NFL season, filled in for New York when regular punter Jame Gillan missed the team’s Week 15 game against the Washington Commanders with a knee injury. Johnston punted four times in that game for an average of 45.5 yards per punt, but one of his punts was returned by Jaylin Lane of the Commanders for a 63-yard touchdown.

Gillan returned to the lineup Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. He punted twice for an average of 45.5 yards per punt, and held for two field goals and an extra point by left-footed rookie placekicker Ben Sauls.

New York Giants practice squad roster​

CB Jarrick Bernard-Converse
LB Swayze Bozeman
DT Elijah Chatman
TE Tanner Conner
TE Zach Davidson
OLB Trace Ford
WR/KR Xavier Gipson
OL Reid Holskey
C Bryan Hudson
OL Jake Kubas
S Raheem Layne
TE Maximilian Mang
RB Dante Miller
DL Casey Rogers
PK Ben Sauls
WR/KR Ihmir Smith-Marsette

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...johnston-released-practice-squad-jamie-gillan

 

[New York Giants]

Wanted: Receivers for the NY Giants who can actually catch the ball

Darius Slayton drops a sure TD pass against Washington

The No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft has been a quarterback in nine of the past 11 years. As of this writing, the New York Giants are still in position to have the No. 1 pick in 2026. Do they need a quarterback, though?

A surprising number of people on X think the Giants should stay put if they get the No. 1 pick, trade Jaxson Dart, and draft Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza rather than trading down. You can make the case considering that after winning two of his first three starts Dart hasn’t won another, that the hits he takes and his regular visits to the blue tent portend low longevity, and that his current head coach didn’t even have confidence in him to win Sunday’s game against the Vikings.

Dart has looked really good in a variety of advanced metrics until recently, but football is about scoring points. After a two-week stretch in which the Dart-led Giants hung 34 and 32 points on the Eagles and Broncos, two of the best defensive teams in the league, the Giants have scored 20, 24, 20, 15, 21, and 13 points in Dart’s starts, i.e., 19 points per game. That’s worse than all but five other teams’ season scoring average.

Is it Dart, or is it the weapons he has to work with? In support of the latter hypothesis, as of a month ago he had faced perfect coverage more often than all but a few other QBs while only having a slightly negative EPA on such plays:

How often QBs face Perfect Coverage and their EPA on those plays pic.twitter.com/DdKaMsLZNu

— Jrfortgang (@throwthedamball) November 21, 2025

And the coup de grace, Dart has lost more EPA because of receiver drops than all but a handful of other quarterbacks:

Expected Points Lost to Drops (min 175 plays):

1. Trevor Lawrence (+26)
2. Cam Ward (+20.4)
3. Bo Nix (+17.3)
4. Dak Prescott (+17.1)
5. Jayden Daniels (+16.4)
6. Jaxson Dart (+14.8)
7. Spencer Rattler (+14.1)
8. Mac Jones (+12.7)
9. Justin Herbert (+12.6)
10. Jared Goff (+12.3) pic.twitter.com/e1aAPwoLAX

— Steven Patton (@PattonAnalytics) October 29, 2025

Reliable receivers (a) know how to get open, and (b) know how to catch the ball. They’re savvy football players rather than just athletes. The Giants for the most part have athletes but not great football players in their receiver group.

I started thinking about this last week watching the amazing Rams-Seahawks game. Players like Puca Nacua and Jaxon Smith-Njigba catch everything. Nacua in particular is a lesson for any GM. Here are his RAS scores:

Puka Nacua was drafted in round 5 with pick 177 in the 2023 draft class. He scored a 5.18 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 1476 out of 3061 WR from 1987 to 2023.https://t.co/m7ymEkzW25 pic.twitter.com/9QeVHMorFk

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) October 27, 2025

Nacua was selected in the fifth round (No. 177) in the 2023 draft – the one in which Joe Schoen traded up for the more physically impressive athlete, Jalin Hyatt:

Jalin Hyatt was drafted with pick 73 of round 3 in the 2023 draft class. He scored a 8.76 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 381 out of 3062 WR from 1987 to 2023. https://t.co/ts7BRtenjW #Giants pic.twitter.com/8slYzlCymi

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) September 29, 2023

(The mediocre agility grades are interesting in light of Hyatt’s inability to get separation on most of his routes.) To rub salt in the wound, Nacua was still on the board when the Giants selected running back Eric Gray at No. 172. (Never mind the fact that the No.73 – No. 89 pick exchange with the Rams was used by them to select defensive tackle Kobie Turner.) The Giants of course were not the only team to pass multiple times on Nacua; every NFL team did. Even his draft profile was mediocre unless you’re able to note the intriguing bits with hindsight. For example Lance Zierlein of NFL.com rated him in the “Average Backup or Special-Teamer” category, saying:

Nacua is an athletic wideout lacking the twitch or speed to attack NFL man coverage at a successful rate. However, the ball skills and competitive nature he brings to the field give him a fighting chance to make a roster. He might need to be used as a possession receiver operating from the slot, where his ball-winning and size can work in his favor. He’s sneaky talented with the ball in his hands, so jet-sweep work in the pros could be an option. He has a shot to be picked on Day 3. There are make-it elements in the way he plays the game

Smith-Njigba was a different story. It’s entirely possible that Schoen would have drafted him in Round 1 in 2023, but there was a run on wide receivers just before the Giants picked. Still, good NFL receivers such as Josh Downs, Michael Wilson, Dontayvion Wicks, and DeMario Douglas were on the board when the Giants traded up for Hyatt.

There are several components to being a good receiver. A lot of emphasis has been placed on separation in recent years, and rightly so. Here’s a chart about separation and its correlation with targets from several weeks ago:

How well WRs have separated against single coverage and targets per route against single coverage pic.twitter.com/6FpSe7Bemt

— Jrfortgang (@throwthedamball) December 10, 2025

Unsurprisingly, Smith-Njigba and Nacua are right up there with the best, along with Amon-Ra St.Brown and Garrett Wilson, all of whom get targeted a lot as a result. No Giants receiver comes anywhere near that, although Wan’Dale Robinson is at least in the same quadrant as they are.

Unless you catch the ball, though, separation doesn’t mean much. That’s the part that Giants receivers fall short in. Let’s look at two metrics that matter a lot for actually being successful as a receiver. First, drops – here are the league leaders (lowest drop percentage) among wide receivers and tight ends who are targeted regularly:

Tight ends as a rule aren’t the greatest pass catchers, but two do make the list (Trey McBride and Dalton Schultz). Unsurprisingly, Nacua and Smith-Njigba are both there; they also happen to lead the NFL in receiving yards. Nacua in particular has an amazing 81.4% reception rate, made more impressive by the fact that he’s been targeted 140 times already. Note also that Rashid Shaheed leads all wide receivers with zero drops this season. He was available at the trade deadline; Seattle got him for fourth and fifth-round picks. Joe Schoen made no moves at the trade deadline. One Giant, Wan’Dale Robinson, clocks in at No.12, with only a 3.7% drop rate. That’s one argument for re-signing him (in addition to his 901 receiving yards), but his size may be an issue, as we’ll get to in a moment.

The other aspect of receiving that receives less attention than it used to is making contested catches. Big receivers who could win “50-50” balls used to be treasured as go-to guys when you needed a first down or were in the red zone. Here are the NFL contested catch leaders this season:

The term “50-50” balls is a bit misleading: There are actually only 20 receivers in the NFL this year who have won contested balls at least 50% of the time. Stefon Diggs, who is only 6-foot, leads the NFL with an amazing 81.8% contested catch rate, albeit in only 11 opportunities. Second among the leaders? Puka Nacua at 75.8%. Smith-Njigba comes in at No.11 with 56.0%.

So I wasn’t imagining things last Thursday – Nacua and Smith-Njigba seem to catch everything because they don’t drop balls and they win battles for contested receptions.

The Giants don’t really have that this year. Wan’Dale (who is 40th in the NFL in contested catch rate) is not terrible considering his size, but in absolute terms definitely not great. Here are the Giants receivers ranked by number of receptions:

All the Giants’ leading receivers except Robinson have terrible drop rates, even their best receiver, Malik Nabers, who had the same problem as a rookie. Theo Johnson is one of those with a big drop problem, but at least he’s won 63.2% of contested catches. Darius Slayton has had a double-digit drop rate every year of his career except 2019 and 2023, and last season was his only one with better than a 60% contested catch rate.

A different look at Robinson tells a somewhat different story. Here are ESPN Analytics tracking metrics on the Giants’ wide receivers using Next Gen Stats. For receivers with at least 30 targets their algorithm judges (relative to expectations) how often receivers are open, how often they make the catch, and how much YAC they get, all expressed as percentiles relative to the rest of the NFL:

The Giants have receivers who can get open, but no one even in the top half of the league in actually catching the ball. Robinson’s low number, given his fairly small number of drops, may indicate that relative to bigger receivers he’s just easier to deflect the ball away from and/or that there are balls he just can’t reach relative to what taller receivers can do.

Here are the NFL’s top five in all three ESPN categories, including both WRs and TEs:

We see that by these standards, Nacua and Smith-Njigba are overall the two best receivers in the league. Stefon Diggs and George Kittle, two other fifth-round draft picks, are up there as well, along with Amon-Ra St.Brown, a 4th round pick, and Kayshon Boutte, a sixth-round pick.

The Giants desperately need a receiver who can give them some semblance of what Nacua and Smith-Njigba are giving the Rams and Seahawks – a reliable target to keep the chains moving while also having the potential to be explosive. As much as the Giants need help on defense, I’d like to see them use that first-round draft pick (ideally after trading down a bit – go Silver and Black!) on a wide receiver. If they decide to go defense instead (and haven’t gotten a second first-round pick in a trade-down), I’d be OK if they went wide receiver at the top of Round 2. Even a later round flyer on a receiver might turn up a gem, as the ESPN chart show….IF they value catching the ball as much as athleticism.

Here’s the consensus WR big board at the moment:

Carnell Tate (6-3) and Jordyn Tyson (6-2) are the two players many people mock to the Giants, but there will be 10 receivers considered Round 1 or 2 values in this draft if they all declare. Which of them fit the bill as good pass catchers? Here are PFF’s top 10 wide receivers overall from the nominal 2026 and 2027 draft classes, ranked by overall receiving grade:

Tate hasn’t dropped a pass all season, and he has an astounding 85.7% contested catch rate and overall 82.8% catch rate. Sign me up. Tyson only has one drop but a less impressive (but still OK) 43.8% contested catch rate and 62.9% overall catch rate. I’d take either of them, but Tate over Tyson. Makai Lemon, No.17 on the big board but PFF’s highest ranked receiver, is only 5-11 but has an amazing 66.7% contested catch rate for his size, with two drops, and an overall 73.1% catch rate.

If the Giants want to go defense in Round 1, there are several receivers they could take early in Round 2 if available who fit the bill of being good at actually catching the ball, e.g., Denzel Boston (6-4, No. 24 on the board, two drops, 76.9% CTC). One player Chris Pflum highlighted in his preview of Alabama-Oklahoma was Germie Bernard (6-1, No. 53 on the big board). Bernard only has one drop this season. His contested catch rate is a modest 35.7%, but against Oklahoma with the game on the line, he did this:

What a play last night from Germie Bernard #abc pic.twitter.com/1U92HWDKSw

— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) December 20, 2025

At tight end, Theo Johnson’s not going anywhere, but it’s also not realistic to expect his hands to get much better. Daniel Bellinger is more sure-handed, but since his rookie year injury he’s been an afterthought in the Giants’ offense despite only having three drops in four seasons and a 61.5% contested catch rate. Bellinger is in his contract year. It is not at all clear that the current regime has any interest in bringing him back, although a new head coach and general manager might feel differently.

The Giants would surely not draft a tight end in Round 1 and probably not in Round 2. They don’t have their Round 3 pick due to the Dart trade-up. That leaves Round 4, where the Giants currently stand at No. 102. Tight end is one of the undervalued positions by GMs, so good values are sometimes available on Day 3. Of the top prospects, Max Clare of Ohio State (TE2 and No. 71 on the consensus big board), if he declares, is the one who is the best catcher of the ball, with only two drops this season and a 66.7% contested catch rate.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...the-ny-giants-who-can-actually-catch-the-ball

 

[New York Giants]

Survey: Do the NY Giants have a bright future in 2026?

The New York Giants 2025 season has almost come to a close.

We’re giving the folks who collect responses and create our graphics a break for the Christmas holiday this week, we only have one question for you. That question is, of course: How confident are you that the Giants are heading in the right direction?

We don’t yet know who will be leading the Giants in 2026, though we’ve heard that they have an early shortlist of candidates.

That list includes:

• Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman
• Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury
• Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo
• Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley
• Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak

We also have to assume that if a current head coach like John Harbaugh or Kevin Stefanski becomes available, they’d jump to the top of the list.

We’ll get clarity on that question soon enough. But opinions also differ on whether the Giants have talented players who are playing poorly or simply a poor roster. The optimistic view is that the good coaching could get the players who have played well in the past to regain — or surpass — their previous form. The pessimistic view is that the roster has little talent and the team needs a full teardown and rebuild.

So where do you come down? Do you think the Giants are a coach away from rebounding, a la the New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, and Jacksonville Jaguars? Or are they more like the New York Jets who need to sell off assets and hope they got the least-bad option for a coach?

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Giants fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...do-the-ny-giants-have-a-bright-future-in-2026

 

[New York Giants]

Las Vegas Raiders place star tight end on IR prior to game vs. Giants

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers catches a touchdown against the Los Angeles Chargers.

The New York Giants game against the Las Vegas Raiders just got a lot easier.

The Raiders placed star tight end Brock Bowers on the injured reserve Wednesday, ending his season. Bowers is, easily, the Raiders’ most dangerous weapon on offense and one of the best receiving weapons at any position in the NFL.

The Raiders are placing star TE Brock Bowers on injured reserve today, officially ending his season, per sources.

Bowers has dealt with a knee injury since Week 1. With playoffs long out of reach, the decision was made to get it taken care of now and focus on being 100% in 2026. pic.twitter.com/6MipUECoO9

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 24, 2025

The second year tight end set the record for receptions by a rookie in 2025 with 112, breaking Puka Nacua’s record of 105 set in 2024. He also set the record for receiving yards by a tight end with 1,194 on the season, breaking the previous record of 1,076 yards set by Mike Ditka back in 1961.

Bowers earned First-Team All-Pro honors as well as a trip to the Pro Bowl last year, but has struggled with with knee injuries all year with a sprained PCL and a bone bruise. Even injured, Bowers presented a significant threat to the Giants’ defense, considering the state of their linebacking corps.

On one hand, the Raiders already anemic offense is significantly less threatening without Bowers, making a win that much more likely for the Giants. On the other hand, the first overall pick (and potentially significant draft capital) is on the line this game.

Losing Bowers likely makes getting the first pick — and their choice of quarterbacks — that much easier for the Raiders while also likely depriving the Giants of much-needed trade opportunities if they should win the game.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...-star-tight-end-on-ir-prior-to-game-vs-giants

 

[New York Giants]

Fantasy Football 2025: Championship Week (17) preview – Start/sit and more

Happy Holidays, and welcome to Week 17 – the Championship round of the Fantasy Football Playoffs! If you made it this far, congratulations. One big Christmas present (or stocking full of coal) awaits.

But you’ll need to be patient. Like it or not, the Week 17 games are staggered, with three games on Christmas Day, two more on Saturday, eight on Sunday, and one on Monday. It could be an agonizing wait for fantasy managers, and especially against the backdrop of holiday commitments and distractions. Trust me on this: The important people in your life aren’t going to understand. Time to spike the eggnog.

The biggest story of Week 16 was the two absolutely bonkers finishes in pivotal NFC West and North division games on Thursday and Saturday nights. I feel like Jack Buck – I can’t believe what I just saw, twice. But the Seahawks and Bears did in fact both pull off miracle fourth quarter comebacks in front of their ecstatic home fans. I’m sure that the overtime points scored in those games ended up swinging some semi-final matchups.

From a fantasy standpoint, a big story heading into this final week is a bunch of fresh quarterback injuries. Five quarterbacks were knocked out of games in Week 16 and amazingly, Jaxson Dart wasn’t one of them, although you wouldn’t know it from his stat line. There are multiple second and third string QBs that will be running NFL offenses this week (some of whom have no business doing so), wreaking havoc for fantasy managers. More on this later.

Stats of the Week:

• The streak continues: Mike Tomlin has not had a losing record in any of his 19 seasons as an NFL Head Coach (all with the Steelers).

• The Eagles are the first team to repeat as NFC East champions in two decades.

• Miasma in the Meadowlands: The Giants and Jets have a combined record of 5-25.

• The 2-13 Giants and 12-3 Patriots have the same number of wins (2) against teams that currently have a winning record.

• The Bears have won six games this season where they trailed inside the final two minutes of regulation (that’s the most in a season in the Super Bowl era).

• In their two meetings this season: Rams 58, Seahawks 57, Rams 830 total yards, Seahawks 829 total yards.

• The Rams are the first team in NFL history to lose a game where they had 500+ yards of offense, committed zero turnovers, and forced 3+ turnovers. The Rams have also rolled up 500+ yards of offense in three straight games.

• Last stat from this game (there are a lot): Before Thursday, the Rams were 323-1 all-time when leading by 15+ points in the fourth quarter, and the Seahawks were 0-172 all-time when trailing by 15+ points in the fourth quarter.

• The 49ers have not punted in the month of December.

• The Giants have turned the ball over on downs inside the red zone ten times this season (that’s the most by any team in a season in this century).

• Chase Brown scored three touchdowns in just over six minutes of game time in the Bengals’ rout of the Dolphins.

• The Lions had 15 rushing yards at home against Pittsburgh (the Steelers had 230), and the Giants had 13 net passing yards at home against the Vikings.

Fantasy Stat of the Week:

• Josh Allen, the No. 1 fantasy scorer this season and the No. 1 or No. 2 fantasy scorer in each of the five seasons before that, put up 6.9 fantasy points in Week 16, in a game the Bills won. That’s his lowest weekly score in the last three seasons. If he let you down don’t be too mad. It happens, and he’s a big part of what got you to the semis.

Week 17, here we go!

Bye Weeks: NONE

Week 17 Rides, Fades, and Sleepers

I’m tweaking my normal format this week. It’s the fantasy championships! Your lineup is probably pretty set. Instead of going over lots of players who few people have questions about, I’m going to try to focus on some less obvious players that I’m higher and lower on this week, and some of the toughest calls fantasy managers might be considering. Half PPR scoring and Expert Consensus Rankings (ECR) are used for the column.

I’ll still pick a Ride, Fade,and Sleeper of the Week. The rules: The Ride of the Week can’t be a truly elite option, the Fade can’t be someone who nobody is starting anyway, and the Sleeper must be from down in the rankings.

My Rides, Fades, and Sleepers in Week 16 were not my best effort this season. Sorry. I had been on fire for a month before that. You can check my work here: Week 16.

Ride of the Week: Rhamondre Stevenson (@NYJ). The Patriots have a shot at the #1 seed, and I don’t see them taking their foot off the gas against the lowly Jets in Week 17, or Miami in Week 18. The Jets are a mess, and this is unlikely to be a competitive game. I doubt TreVeyon Henderson (concussion) will be able to play this week, which sets Stevenson up for an RB1 workload in a cake matchup. The Jets have allowed the fifth most fantasy points per game (FPPG) to opposing RBs, and they’ve been decidedly worse lately, after trading away stout DT Quinnen Williams. Stevenson is ranked as the RB15 this week and I have him as a borderline Top-10 play.

Fade of the Week: Rico Dowdle (vs. SEA). Remember those halcyon days when Dowdle was racking up 200 yards per week and looking like a waiver wire league winner? Well, those days are over. Dowdle hasn’t topped 60 yards on the ground in six straight outings, and he’s run for less than 3.5 yards per carry in all but one of those games. He’s still getting more work than Chuba Hubbard, but it’s an annoying split nonetheless and especially with Carolina suddenly being inefficient running the ball. Throw in a bad matchup (seventh fewest FPPG allowed to opposing RBs) and I’m leaving Dowdle out of my lineup this week if I have a decent pivot.

Sleeper of the Week: Taysom Hill (@TEN). Is this a thirst trap? In Week 12, Alvin Kamara got hurt and Hill came off the bench to lead the team in carries. The following week, he got exactly one rushing opportunity, as Devin Neal took over. Neal is now on IR, so this situation is different. Hill led the Saints with 12 carries in Week 16 and he also caught four passes and threw a TD pass. The key question is whether Kamara can return to the lineup this week. If he can’t, expect another busy game for the Swiss Army knife. Kamara didn’t practice at all last week, and the Saints have nothing to play for, so Hill being ranked outside the Top-15 TEs this week seems low. If you need a TE, at least consider Hill if the other available options at the position aren’t great. The matchup is decent, and the Saints are playing well on offense. Just make sure you have a pivot if Kamara trends towards playing.

Offenses to Avoid in Week 17

I’ll lead with this, because there are a few offenses that I want to steer clear of this week. This is what happens when third-string quarterbacks are given the keys to the kingdom.

Kansas City Chiefs (vs. DEN): This one is easy. The keys to Chiefs Kingdom lie with a quarterback whose own family might not have heard of him. I certainly haven’t. KC’s implied total this week is 12, which is the lowest on the Week 17 Board and one of the lowest totals all season. The Broncos’ vaunted defense got lit up last week by Trevor Lawrence and I think they’ll take it out on a team that has nothing to play for, has beaten up on them for a decade, and has thrown up the white flag for 2025. Even if Rashee Rice is back, I wouldn’t go near him. Nor would I roll with Travis Kelce or either of the running backs. The Chiefs didn’t score a touchdown last week against the Titans, but even Harrison Butker is a risky play. Just look elsewhere.

New York Jets (vs. NE). The Jets will roll with Brady Cook for a second straight week (three, if you count the Miami game, where he came in for Travis Taylor early). The results have been predictably disastrous and aren’t getting better. Gang Green has averaged 12 points per game the last three weeks. Fun fact: Garrett Wilson hasn’t played in more than two months and leads the Jets with 395 receiving yards. Breece Hall will get opportunities and could get lucky with an explosive TD or a goal-line opportunity, but the Patriots are tough vs. the run and I wouldn’t be excited about starting him.

Minnesota Vikings (vs. DET). The Lions are a favorable matchup for QBs and receivers, but if Max Brosmer is under center for the Vikings, I really don’t want any part of their offense. In roughly six quarters of football so far this season, Brosmer hasn’t led his team to a touchdown. The Lions still have slim playoff hopes, and I think they won’t let up in this game. Aaron Jones, Sr. should get volume with Jordan Mason likely out, so I guess you can consider him if you need him. But how can you trust Justin Jefferson or any of the other pass catchers with the Bro’ throwing to them? Answer: You can’t.

Load ‘em up!

Let’s talk about something more fun than awful offenses. Start what you can in the ARI@CIN game. I know the Cardinals faltered last week, but it’s a nice matchup, they’ve been fantasy gold for the past month or so, and the Bengals showed last week that they can punish a defense that’s overmatched. This game has a juicy Vegas total of 53.5, which is the highest of the week. All the main names in this game should be in lineups this week.

CHI@SF is another game with a very high total (52.5). The difference is these are two playoff-bound teams jockeying for position. Both can still end up with the NFC #1 seed, so there is plenty to play for. Start what you can in this one too. The 49ers’ offense has been unstoppable lately, and their defense had all kinds of trouble with Philip Rivers and the Colts, so the Bears should get their points too. Vroom, vroom!

Two more games that should have plenty of scoring, and lots of good fantasy performances: LAR@ATL, and JAC@IND.

Rides and Fades

I’m going to hit on a few players at each position who haven’t been obvious names or auto-starts for portions of the season.

Quarterback

Rides:

Nobody is playing better than Trevor Lawrence (@IND). He’s the QB1 over the last six weeks and has an astonishing 75 points across the first two weeks of the fantasy playoffs. This week he faces a reeling Colts squad that yielded five TDs to Brock Purdy on Monday night. There are very few QBs (if any) that I’m starting over Lawrence this week.

Others ranked inside the Top-15 this week who aren’t auto-starts that I think you can roll with: Brock Purdy (vs. CHI) and in the same game Caleb Williams (@SF), Jacoby Brissett (@CIN), Tyler Shough (@TEN), Bo Nix (@KC), and Baker Mayfield (@MIA).

If you need a QB2, a few of the lower-ranked QBs who I think you can fire up this week include Kirk Cousins (vs. LAR), Cam Ward (vs. NO), and Malik Willis (vs. BAL, if he starts).

Fades:

Justin Herbert (@HOU) delivered for me as a Ride last week, but I think both he and C.J. Stroud (vs. LAC) are tough starts this week. The Chargers and Texas have given up the second and third fewest FPPG to opposing QBs and this game could be a defensive battle with a lot of field goals.

Lower-ranked QBs that you might be considering, but who I’d try to avoid, include Jaxson Dart (@LV), Geno Smith (vs. NYG, with no Brock Bowers), and Bryce Young (vs. SEA).

Toughest Call:

Jared Goff (vs. MIN) against the Vikings’ defense is strength vs. strength. Minnesota’s pass defense has been downright nasty and has allowed a grand total of one TD pass over the last seven games. One! Meanwhile, Goff averages around 20 FPPG and has been a prolific passer throughout his Lions’ tenure and especially at home. With Minnesota starting Max Brosmer, there should be plenty of possessions and opportunities, but that didn’t help Sam Darnold against this defense a few weeks ago. I think you can play Goff, but temper expectations.

Running back:

Rides:

Ashton Jeanty (vs. NYG). It’s been a frustrating season for Jeanty managers and especially those who sat him in a bad matchup last week and watched him go off. Well, this week he has a dream matchup, and with Brock Bowers out he should see even more targets. The Giants have allowed the second most rushing yards and fourth most FPPG to opposing RBs.

Others who are less obvious weekly starts and who I think have a good chance to outperform this week include: Kenneth Gainwell (@CLE), R.J. Harvey (@KC), Tyrone Tracy, Jr. (@LV), Michael Carter (@CIN), Chris Rodriguez, Jr. (vs. DAL), Blake Corum (@ATL), Zach Charbonnet (@CAR), and Emmanuel Wilson (vs. BAL).

Fades:

Most of my RB Fades are already covered above. I’ll just add these names: I can’t trust anyone in the Houston backfield (vs. LAC), or the Cleveland backfield (vs. PIT), as both situations are unclear and the matchups are tough, or David Montgomery (vs. MIN).

Toughest Call:

Bucky Irving (@MIA). It’s a good matchup and a game Tampa Bay should win, but Irving has been hard to trust since his return from injury. He’s ceding goal-line work to Sean Tucker, and barely playing over half of the snaps since his return. He did see his usage tick up a bit last week, and I’d roll with him unless you have an obvious pivot.

Wide receiver:

Rides:

Seven Rides this week, all of whom are ranked outside the Top-20 for the week and therefore not obvious auto-starts: Terry McLaurin (vs. DAL, and even with Josh Johnson likely starting), D.J. Moore (@SF), Stefon Diggs (@NYJ), Brian Thomas, Jr. (@IND), Chris Godwin (@MIA), and Alec Pierce and Josh Downs (vs. JAC).

Fades:

A number of Fades are already listed above. There are multiple situations where the starting QB is making certain receivers a little scary, and not in a good, “Scary Terry” kind of way. Like, I’m scared to start someone like Jayden Waddle (vs TB), although I think he’s got a fairly safe floor.

I’m more scared of the following players/situations, some of whom might be under consideration for fantasy managers.

Malik Willis played well last week, but if he’s starting, I’m going to have trouble trusting any of Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, or Jayden Reed (vs. BAL). On the other side, if Snoop Huntley starts for the Ravens, I’ve got the same concern with Zay Flowers (@GB) against a very good defense.

I’d also avoid all of the Bills’ WRs (vs. PHI), as none have really been all that reliable or productive all year. The Patriots’ receivers (@NYJ) beyond Diggs are also hard to trust, as any one of them can have a big game, but the ball really gets spread around. And I don’t think Drake Maye will be throwing much in the second half.

Toughest Call:

Drake London (vs. LAR) is only a tough call because of how little he did last week in a great matchup, in his first game back from injury. The Falcons will need to throw in this one to keep up, and I think you can trust London to see increased work. He did have eight targets last week, which is a good sign.

Tight end:

Rides:

Juwan Johnson (@TEN) has been a favorite target of Tyler Shough and especially now that Devaughn Vele is hurt. Johnson is the clear #2 option in the passing game (8-89-0 last week on nine targets) and makes for a nice start in a good matchup this week.

Other TEs who are less obvious names but I think can be started this week include Dalton Schultz (@LAC), Brenton Strange (@IND), Mike Gesicki (vs. ARI), and A.J. Barner (@CAR). All have been hot lately, and have at minimum decent matchups. And if George Kittle is out and you’re stuck, Jake Tonges (vs. CHI) proved earlier in the season that he can be a decent option.

Fades:

I’ve had it with the Ravens’ tight ends. Whether or not Lamar Jackson plays, they’re totally unreliable, and that’s not what you want if you’re playing for a title.

Dalton Kincaid (vs. PHI) is tough form me to get behind this week, against a defense that’s allowed the fewest yards and second fewest FPPG to opposing TEs (and just three TDs). It’s not like he’s been lighting it up, either.

Oronde Gadsden II (@HOU) has disappeared, and I’m not clicking him onto lineups in a fairly tough matchup against a really good defense.

Toughest Call:

Dallas Goedert (@BUF) is a tough call this week. Buffalo has allowed the second fewest receiving yards and the fewest catches and FPPG to opposing TEs (and just three receiving TDs), although Harold Fannin, Jr. had two TDs (one receiving, one rushing) against them last week. Goedert slots in as a very low-end TE1 for me this week.

PK and D/ST Streamers (ranked outside the top-14 for the week): See my Week 17 Waiver Wire column.

Good luck in Week 17, enjoy your holidays, and again, thanks for reading the column this season!

***This column appears each Thursday right here at Big Blue View. Each Monday, my Waiver Wire column appears here, and on Fridays you can find my weekly Prop bets of the week for the Giants, also right here. ***

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...ampionship-week-17-preview-start-sit-and-more

 

[New York Giants]

NFL Christmas Day games 2025: Times, channels, streaming, discussion

Football is now a part of Christmas Day. Here is everything you need to know to watch on television, stream, listen to, and wager on Thursday’s tripleheader.

Dallas Cowboys (6-8-1) at Washington Commanders (4-11)​

What: Cowboys at Commanders
When: Thursday, Dec. 25
Where: Northwest Stadium, Landover, Md.
Game time: 1 p.m. ET
TV/STREAMING: NETFLIX
Announcers: Ian Eagle, Nate Burleson, Matt Ryan, Sara Walsh (field reporter), Melanie Collins (field reporter)
Radio: Westwood One: Jason Benetti, Ryan Harris | SiriusXM: National: Channel 88 | Cowboys: Channel 808 | Commanders: Channel 831
Referee: Brad Rogers
Fanduel Sportsbook odds: Spread: Cowboys -7 | Moneyline: Cowboys – 335; Commanders + 270 | Over/Under: 50.5

Join the conversation!​

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• Fewer ads
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• New, improved notifications system!

Detroit Lions (8-7) at Minnesota Vikings (7-8)​

What: Lions at Vikings
When: Thursday, Dec. 25
Where: U.S. Bank Stadium
Game time: 4:30 p.m.
TV/STREAMING: NETFLIX
Announcers: Noah Eagle, Drew Brees, AJ Ross (field reporter), Diana Russini (field reporter)
Radio: Westwood One: Jason Benetti, Ryan Harris | SiriusXM: National: Channel 88 | Lions: Channel 810 | Vikings: Channel 820
Referee: Shawn Smith
Fanduel Sportsbook odds: Spread: Lions -7 | Moneyline: Lions -370; Vikings +295 | Over/Under: 43.5

Denver Broncos (12-3) at Kansas City Chiefs (6-9)​

What: Broncos at Chiefs
When: Thursday, Dec. 25
Where: Arrowhead Stadium
Game time: 8:15 p.m.
TV/STREAMING: PRIME VIDEO
Announcers: Al Michaels, Kirk Herbstreit, Kaylee Hartung (field reporter)
Radio: Westwood One: J.P. Shadrick, Ryan Leaf | SiriusXM: National: Channel 88 | Broncos: Channel 809 | Chiefs: Channel 815 | Spanish: Channel 832
Referee: Bill Vinovich
Fanduel Sportsbook odds: Spread: Broncos -12.5 | Moneyline: Broncos -1200; Chiefs +750 | Over/Under: 36.5

Staff picks for Christmas Day​

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/game-da...ames-2025-times-channels-streaming-discussion

 

[New York Giants]

NY Giants-Las Vegas Raiders questions, answers: Is losing what matters?

Whatever cool, or uncool, name you are calling Sunday’s New York Giants-Las Vegas Raiders game we know this is one of those occasions where the losing team’s fanbase might be happier than the winner’s.

Let’s turn to ‘Silver and Black Pride’ to check in on the Raiders. Matt Holder answers our ‘5 questions’.

Ed: Seeing as the only thing on the line in this game is the No. 1 pick of the draft, are the Raiders in tank mode? Is it clear at this point that hiring Pete Carroll was a mistake and that Las Vegas will have another one-and-done head coach? What’s the fanbase’s mindset heading into the game?​

Matt: The majority of Raider Nation wants to see the team lose out and get the No. 1 overall pick to land a long-term answer at quarterback, or at least have the ability to trade the pick for a haul similar to what the Bears got a few years ago from the Panthers. But the team and Carroll are still trying to win games, evidenced by last week’s two-point loss to a very good Houston Texans team. That being said, the Raiders did place a couple of starters, Brock Bowers and Jeremy Chinn, on IR this week. Bowers is basically the offense’s entire passing game, so maybe they are shifting focus and tanking for these last two games.

As for Carroll’s future in Las Vegas, if I have to put money on it, I’d bet he gets fired or retires at the end of the season. He’s said that he’s willing to stick around for a rebuild, but this team is at least two years away from being competitive and it doesn’t make much sense to keep a head coach who will turn 75 years old in September for that. Plus, this year has been a total disaster.

Ed: If the Giants end up with the No. 1 pick, do you think the Raiders would play ball and give up a number of draft assets to move up and get that pick from the Giants?​

Matt: It would depend on two factors: how they feel about Fernando Mendoza and if Dante Moore declares for the draft.

If Moore declares, I can see the Raiders just staying where they’re at, or at least not making move to get to No. 1 overall, and selecting the Oregon quarterback. But if he goes back to school, that should push Las Vegas’ urgency to be aggressive and get Mendoza. The only thing that gives me hesitation is that the Indiana product doesn’t seem to be the consensus QB1 right now, so maybe the front office isn’t as sold on him and decides to wait a year to get a quarterback. Especially since the offensive line needs work and it’s likely going to take a couple of seasons to turn it around in Las Vegas, anyway.

Ed: If you could take one player off the Giants’ roster and put him into Las Vegas’s lineup, who would it be? Why?​

Matt: Dexter Lawrence. The Raiders’ defense is weak up the middle against the run and is missing a true nose tackle. They also need an interior pass-rusher to help take some of the pressure and attention off Maxx Crosby, so Lawrence would solve a couple of problems. Also, I’ll admit some personal bias here. I’ve been a fan of Sexy Dexy’s game for a while, so I’d love to have him in Las Vegas, and this was an easy choice for me.

Ed: If the Raiders move on from Carroll, what qualities might they be looking for in their next head coach? Who are some early names who might be considered? I am curious if the Raiders and Giants might be swimming in the same pool.​

Matt: I think the ability to develop a young quarterback would be the primary focus. The problem is that there doesn’t seem to be many quality offensive-minded candidates in this year’s hiring cycle, complicating matters.

In the past, Mark Davis has preferred candidates with previous head coaching experience, hiring Jack Del Rio, Jon Gruden, Josh McDaniels and Carroll since taking over for Al. However, that hasn’t worked, and many fans are hoping Davis pivots toward hiring a young, up-and-comer like Sean McVay once was.

The three popular names that have been rumored to be candidates Carroll gets let go are: Robert Saleh, Chris Shula and Klint Kubiak. Saleh fits the retread profile that Davis has leaned on in the past and was reportedly offered the Raiders’ defensive coordinator job last offseason before opting to go back to San Francisco. The latter two would be the younger options, and Kubiak might be the better fit since he’s an offensive mind and has more experience working with quarterbacks.

Ed: Let’s say the Giants, Titans and Raiders all end up competing for the same coaching candidate. Why, in your mind, should that person choose Las Vegas over New York or Tennessee?​

Matt: While the Giants and Titans both have young guys behind center, the opportunity to hand-pick and develop a quarterback from the jump should entice a coaching candidate. Plus, the Raiders have 10 draft picks and the second-most cap space this offseason to help turn the team around quickly. Ultimately, the ability for a coach to build the roster in their vision is Las Vegas’ biggest competitive advantage in the coaching market.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...ons-answers-nfl-draft-order-2026-pete-carroll

 

[New York Giants]

Las Vegas Raiders bench another star player against the NY Giants

Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby.

The Las Vegas Raiders have informed star pass rusher Maxx Crosby that he won’t be playing this Sunday against the New York Giants.

Sources: #Raiders star Maxx Crosby was informed that he’ll be out Sunday vs. the #Giants because of the knee injury he’s been battling since October.

LV made the decision with Crosby’s best interest in mind, though the Pro Bowler has been fighting to play and wants to play. pic.twitter.com/zZRn7wg0dC

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 26, 2025

While Crosby has been playing through an injury, he still has 10.0 sacks on the season to go with 20 QB hits and a career-high 28 tackles for a loss.

For their part, the Giants will be without left tackle Andrew Thoma, who suffered a hamstring injury last week against the Minnesota Vikings.

Crosby is, pretty easily, the Raiders’ best defensive players and one of their best players at any position. The decision to bench him comes hot on the heels of the decision to shut star TE Brock Bowers down for the year.

While we won’t say that the Raiders are intentionally tanking with the first overall pick on the line, they’re not beating the allegations. The decision to shut down their best players certainly makes their path to the No.1 pick much more clear.

Maybe the Giants should counter by starting Mike Kafka at quarterback.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...s-vegas-raiders-bench-maxx-crosby-nfl-week-17

 

[New York Giants]

Giants news, 12/26: Andrew Thomas out, Jeremy Shockey, Jaxson Dart

Good morning, New York Giants fans!

From Big Blue View​

• NY Giants-Raiders final injury report: LT Andrew Thomas won’t play
• NY Giants’ defense is bad, but might be better than the Raiders’ offense
• NY Giants-Las Vegas Raiders questions, answers: Is losing what matters?
• NFL Week 17 picks, predictions: Giants-Raiders winner might be the loser
• NY Giants vs. Las Vegas Raiders, NFL Week 17 2025: What you need to know
• Ex-Giant TE Jeremy Shockey thinks ‘the Giants are going to be great’
• New York Giants head coaching search 2026: Everything you need to know

Other Giant observations​

Giants Mailbag: Should Big Blue trade Jaxson Dart, select Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza if they land No. 1 pick? | SNY.tv​

The Giants had no intention of firing Schoen when they dismissed Daboll. There are people within the building — especially Tim McDonnell — who remain high on him. They support his process, believe he has assembled a foundational core and credit him with modernizing the organization’s scouting and player evaluation methods.

Internally, the Giants believed the leads they built earlier in the season were evidence the team was on the right track. Blowing five of those leads was viewed as an indication the coaching staff was the issue. Replacing Daboll and finding the right coach could position the Giants for a turnaround similar to what the Patriots, Bears or Jaguars experienced this year.

While Schoen has support inside the building, owner John Mara has historically been responsive to fan sentiment. Calls for change have grown louder, and it would be difficult to counter that if the Giants finish 2-15.

Ideal NFL Team-Coach Pairings Amid Latest Coaching Cycle Rumors | Bleacher Report​

New York Giants: Former Dallas Cowboys HC Mike McCarthy. The Giants need an established lead skipper who can provide a clear direction. Mike McCarthy would be the best fit for what this franchise needs after firing its fourth head coach in eight years.

As a lead skipper, McCarthy has a winning record (174-112-2). As an offensive-minded coach, he helped develop Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay, and during his time with the Dallas Cowboys, Dak Prescott led the league in multiple passing categories. Most fanbases want a young offensive head-coaching candidate, but you can’t overlook McCarthy’s results with two high-profile franchises. He won a Super Bowl with the Packers. On his watch, the Cowboys went 12-5 in three consecutive years, winning two NFC East titles.

The real fun begins for the Giants after the final two games | New York Post​

At this point, right now, Jaxson Dart wants to win. He feels as if he has to win. The thought of picking up and going home with 11 consecutive losses to end his first NFL season and a win-loss record of 2-9 as the starting quarterback is enough to make the 22-year-old queasy in the stomach. Yes, it is difficult not to think about the possibilities available to the Giants if they land the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

“They’re in a great position and a team like the Giants will have an instant turnaround from having the No. 1 pick.”

36 NFL rookies on the 1 big lesson they learned this season | ESPN.com​

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart said: “Just constantly understand that you’re never going to have it figured out.”

Giants’ offensive line injuries increase risk for Jaxson Dart in final 2 games | The Athletic​

As important as it will be to evaluate Mbow’s performance and track his development, it’s also crucial to consider how Dart could be affected, with his blindside being protected by a rookie who has allowed 15 pressures and two sacks in 119 pass-blocking snaps, per TruMedia. Thomas, for context, has allowed 13 pressures and two sacks in 416 pass-blocking snaps. Mbow’s pressure allowed percentage (12.6 percent) is the second-highest among Giants offensive linemen behind James Hudson (who hasn’t played meaningful snaps since Week 2). The next lineman on the list is Runyan, at 5.8 percent.

The 10 best NFL player matchups to watch in Week 17 | PFF​

Las Vegas Raiders EDGE Maxx Crosby vs. New York Giants T Jermaine Eluemunor. Eluemunor has been an effective player for several seasons in a row, including in 2025. His 74.2 PFF pass-blocking grade is 20th among qualified tackles, and his 3.7% pressure rate surrendered is the fourth-best. However, four of his 19 pressures given up have been converted into sacks.

1-on-1 with Mike Kafka: Final road trip | Giants.com​

Q: You will have to protect him from Maxx Crosby this week. He’s tied with Burns for fifth in the NFL in sacks since 2019. As a play-caller, how do you prepare for him?

Kafka: He’s certainly someone you need to make sure you account for in every protection, every run scheme. You’ve got to have a pulse on where he’s going to be. He likes to move around, too. He’s not going to just line up in one spot, so everyone has got to have awareness of him because he’s a unique and special player.

NFL Week 17 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy tips | ESPN.com​

This game may be looked at as the fight for the No. 1 overall pick, but the Giants are more interested in snapping a nine-game losing streak. Another loss ties the franchise record of 10 straight losses, which was set last season.

“I really don’t think we talk about that part too much about the draft positioning and wanting a certain pick or anything like that,” WR Wan’Dale Robinson said. “I think we just want to go out there and play our best football and go out there and get a win.”

This week’s opponent​

NFL Week 17 picks, predictions, schedule, odds, fantasy tips | ESPN.com​

Does coach Pete Carroll care if a win weakens the team’s chances of claiming the No. 1 pick? Of course not. Las Vegas made strides offensively in last week’s loss. Carroll wants to build on that performance to snap the Raiders’ own nine-game skid. “I’m not really that concerned about any of that, and I don’t think you want me to be,” Carroll said. “We’re going to go play and play the best we can play and see what happens.”

Las Vegas Raiders must force Jaxson Dart into making mistakes | Silver and Black Pride ​

Don’t get Jaxson Dart get rolling: Giants’ rookie quarterback has had his moments this season. He can be a dangerous player. He struggled badly in Week 16 against Minnesota and the Giants ran the ball on their first 16 plays of the game. But if Dart is let loose, the Raiders must contain him.

Third-down success: The Raiders had struggled on third down on both sides of the ball in the three games prior to the Houston game. They got better on offense, but the issues have persisted on defense against the Texans. The Raiders were six of 14 on third down after going 8 of 29 the past three games. Defensively, the Raiders allowed Houston to convert seven of 15 times on third down. The Raiders’ past four opponents have converted on 36 of the past 57 attempts. So, getting better on third down on defense is a must.

NFL Week 17 Preview: Schedule, storylines, matchups to watch | PFF​

Matchup to watch: Giants’ run defense vs. Raiders RB Ashton Jeanty. After an up-and-down rookie season, Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty (72.0 grade; 29th) had one of, if not his best, game of the season against the Texans in Week 15. Jeanty carried the ball 24 times for 128 yards and a touchdown, adding a catch for 60 yards and a score. The 2025 first-round pick looked explosive against one of the best defenses in the NFL, forcing a season-high 10 missed tackles and averaging 4.42 yards after contact per attempt.

Jeanty will look to carry that success into his matchup against the Giants’ run defense in Week 16. The Giants have allowed more explosive run plays than any defense, and have the worst PFF run-defense grade (41.3). If there’s any game a running back would want to build momentum, it’s this one.

Around the league​

Dak Prescott looks to play in Week 18, finish Cowboys’ season with ‘pride,’ .500 record | NFL.com

Saquon Barkley primed for big game against the Bills | Bleeding Green Nation

Dan Quinn: We have to execute in winning-time moments | Hogs Haven

Sean McDermott: Josh Allen’s gotten better every day, will play Sunday | Pro Football Talk

Lamar Jackson (back) doubtful for must-win game at Green Bay | ESPN.com

49ers GM John Lynch says George Kittle will be game-time decision Sunday | The Athletic

BBV mailbag​

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More Big Blue View​

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Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...as-out-nfl-week-17-jeremy-shockey-jaxson-dart

 

[New York Giants]

NY Giants roster moves: LT Andrew Thomas, 3 other players placed on IR

The New York Giants on Saturday placed four players on season-ending injured reserve, including star left tackle Andrew Thomas.

Thomas (hamstring), safety Tyler Nubin (neck), defensive tackle D.J. Davidson (neck/concussion), and center John Michael Schmitz (finger) were all placed on injured reserve.

The Giants filled those roster spots by signing center Bryan Hudson, placekicker Ben Sauls, defensive tackle Elijah Chatman and safety Raheem Layne to the 53-man roster.

The Giants also elevated running back/kickoff returner Dante Miller and tight end Zach Davidson from the practice squad.

Without Thomas and Schmitz, Marcus Mbow will start at left tackle and Austin Schlottmann will start at center.

Roster-wise, Layne replace Nubin, Chatman replaces Davidson, Hudson replaces Schmitz. Sauls, who made his NFL debut as a placekicker in last week’s loss to the Minnesota Vikings, also joins the 53-man roster.

The elevation of Miller, a speedy running back popular with the fan base, for Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, is sure to be a hit with the fan base.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...mas-tyler-nubin-jms-ir-ben-sauls-dante-miller

 

[New York Giants]

NY Giants rule out two more players for game vs. Las Vegas Raiders

The New York Giants on Saturday ruled out two more starters for Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Starting center John Michael Schmitz (finger) and tight end Theo Johnson (illness) did not travel to Las Vegas with the team on Saturday, and will not play.

Schmitz had been listed as doubtful on Friday. Schmitz and Johnson join left tackle Andrew Thomas, safety Tyler Nubin, and defensive tackle D.J. Davidson as Giants who will not play Sunday.

Johnson, a second-year player, is the Giants’ second-leading receiver with 45 receptions. Daniel Bellinger and Chris Manhertz are the other tight ends on the 53-man roster. The Giants have three tight ends — Tanner Conner, Zach Davidson, Maximillian Mang — on their practice squad.

The Giants and Raiders are both 2-13 with nine-game losing streaks. The loser of the game has an excellent chance to get the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/new-yor...wo-more-players-for-game-vs-las-vegas-raiders

 

[New York Giants]

NY Giants-Raiders, NFL Week 17: Live in-game updates, scores, discussion

The New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders meet Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET in a game many in both fan bases do not want to see their team win.

In-game updates​

Second half updates​

INTERCEPTION GIANTS – Safety Dane Belton picks off Geno Smith, the Giants’ second interception of the game.

Picked off by Dane Belton!

: CBS pic.twitter.com/fDrWZY0ju9

— New York Giants (@Giants) December 28, 2025

Deonte Banks hit a top speed of 21.25 MPH and recorded a total distance of 113.21 yards on this 95-yard kick return TD, per @NextGenStats

Stream with NFL+pic.twitter.com/3sGEQME9Rx

— NFL+ (@NFLPlus) December 28, 2025

TOUCHDOWN GIANTS – Tae Banks takes a kick-off 95 yards for a touchdown after the Raiders score. Giants lead 27-10 after a 48-yard extra point from Ben Sauls.

“(Bleep) that pick.” — Deonte Banks, pretty much pic.twitter.com/Q6VahYLiXv

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) December 28, 2025

48-yard EP no problem for Ben Sauls after #NYGiants unsportsmanlike penalty. 27-10 Giants.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T23:16:28.455Z

The Giants make multiple great plays on defense, but surrender a pair of fourth downs, including a touchdown on 4th and goal when they abandon their aggressive mindset.

The Raiders go 65 yards in 14 plays and cut their deficit to 20-10 with :31 left in Q3. One play after a PD on a blitz, Tae Banks is burned for a 4-yard TD on fourth down by Tyler Lockett. Oh, and why a 3-man rush there, Charlie Bullen? Remember what I said about this not being over.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T23:12:23.754Z

Tae Banks with a PD off a corner blitz. How about that?

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T23:09:42.138Z

It's a 20-3 Giants lead, but these are the Giants and we know that doesn't guarantee anything.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T23:02:08.004Z

Giants go 11 plays, 72 yards for a 23-yard Ben Sauls field goal and a 20-3, three-score lead halfway through the third quarter.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:58:04.907Z

Jaxson Dart playing free and easy with the leg irons off.

Dart w/another read option for a first down. He seems to play better when he is allowed to use his legs some.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:53:00.177Z

Wan’Dale Robinson hits 1,000 yards on the season and eclipses 100 yards on the day.

Wan'Dale Robinson over 100 yards for the game and 1,000 yards receiving for the season.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:52:12.841Z

Jevon Holland questionable to return for #NYGiants with knee injury. Dane Belton and Raheem Layne at safety.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:50:10.709Z

Brian Burns bails Carter out with a sack of his own. Now has 16.5. Raiders forced to punt.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:47:22.729Z

Timing the snap was a strength of Abdul Carter’s in college. He’s still working on bringing that to the NFL.

Carter offside negates a 3rd and 13 sack by Dexter Lawrence.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:46:37.041Z

Now, can the Giants finish a game and hold a lead? We know the history here.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:43:26.977Z

Holland update from Evan https://t.co/npAMtGPgOG

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 28, 2025

The second half starts with a big injury for the New York Giants. Jevon Holland was on the ground after the opening kick-off, with teammates taking a knee all across the field.

Jevon Holland down after second-half opening kickoff.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:41:04.679Z

First half updates​

Tanking? Don't think so. #NYGiants lead 17-3 at the half. — Jaxson Dart 15/20, 134 yards, 12-yard rushing TD– Wan'Dale Robinson, 9 catches, 97 yards (needs 2 yards forf 1,000)– Tyrone Tracy 8 carries, 33 yards; Devin Singletary 3 carries, 34 yards (1-yard TD)

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:28:02.405Z

The Giants’ drive stalls as the ball is knocked away from Darius Slayton in the endzone. Ben Sauls hits the 32-yard field goal to extend the Giants lead to 17-3.

Wan'Dale Robinson is now 2 yards from 1,000. Needed 99 today.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 28, 2025

4th and inches for Giants at the LVR 25. They get the neutral zone infraction for a first down with 1:05 left in the half.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:20:03.019Z

Most importantly: No flags

Jamal Adams gets into it with a Giants coach and Jameis. This game has everything pic.twitter.com/WfTrtXt0Aw

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) December 28, 2025

36-yard pass to Wan'Dale Robinson. He's just 13 yards from 1,000. More importantly, #NYGiants are in position to score again.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:09:46.733Z

The Giants could still get the #1 pick with a win over the Raiders if…

Week 18
1) Giants lose to Cowboys
2) Raiders beat the Chiefs

— Doug Analytics (@Doug_Analytics) December 28, 2025

Huge TFL for 11 yards by Abdul Carter on a 1st down reverse.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T22:01:24.657Z

6 runs it in for 6

: CBS pic.twitter.com/oJNYdfdDRW

— New York Giants (@Giants) December 28, 2025

TOUCHDOWN GIANTS – Jaxson Dart says “I’ll do it myself” and carries the ball in for a 12-yard touchdown.

Well, 12-yard QB draw for Jaxson Dart. NO way he was sliding. He was going for the TD. 14-3 Giants on Dart's 8th rushing TD. Umm, no the Giants players and coaches don't care about the No. 1 pick.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:57:31.540Z

Wen'Dale Robinson and Marcus M-Bow. Tough listen.

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 28, 2025

Designed run for Jaxson Dart on 3rd and 1 gets a first down.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:54:04.708Z

The Raiders’ drive stalls after Brian Burns and Abdul Carter split a sack. The Giants lead 7-3 after a Raiders field goal.

Brian Burns and Abdul Carter split a sack, forcing an LVR FG. 7-3 Giants, 9:41 left in the half.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:49:01.070Z

Dexter Lawrence with a TFL on first play after NYG TD.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:43:02.801Z

And he follows that with a neutral zone infraction.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:43:38.368Z

Wan'Dale Robinson with 5 catches for 35 yards in Q1. Needs 64 for 1,000. Not sure if they are forcing the ball to him to get him the yardage, or if they don't really have anyone else to throw it to.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:40:19.014Z

TOUCHDOWN GIANTS – Devin Singletary punches the ball into the endzone one play after being brought down on the 1-yard line.

Elijah Chatman in at fullback and Devin Singletary scores from one yard out.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 28, 2025

Singletary stopped at the 1-yard line on 29-yard run. 1st and goal. Can the Giants mess this up?

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:37:24.428Z

Bobby Okereke with the Giants red zone pick!

— NFL Daily News (@fantasynflnews.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:35:28.100Z

Just when you thought the tank was on for the Giants.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:33:20.780Z

Whoa! Bobby Okereke with a pick inside the 10-yard line and a 43-yard return. It's legal for the #NYGiants to make big plays on defense in the red zone?

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:32:49.764Z

INTERCEPTION GIANTS – Bobby Okereke picks off Geno Smith in the Red Zone and returns it 43 yards.

Bobby Okereke picks off Geno in the red zone.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 28, 2025

Brian Burns almost gets 16th sack, but Geno Smith barely gets the ball off.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:29:47.827Z

All but one of Dart’s completions is to Wan’Dale Robinson, and his two incompletions were drops.

Jaxson Dart is 5-of-7 for 34 yards – that's one more passing yard than all of last week.

Wan'Dale Robinson needs 70 yards receiving for 1K.

— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) December 28, 2025

3 and out for the #NYGiants. Wan'Dale watch: 4 catches 29 yards. 70 to go for 1,000.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:23:27.911Z

The Giants force a 3-and-out on the Raiders’ first possession thanks to a tackle for a 2-yard loss by Bobby Okereke and a forced incompletion by Deonte Banks.

Call stands. Punt.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:20:28.546Z

Raiders challenge the spot on a third down catch by Michael Mayer. I think Las Vegas might win this challenge, but still come up short of the first down.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:18:05.426Z

It's an Alex Bachman sighting as the punt returner for the Raiders. Bachman was one of those fan favorite WRs who never really made it with the #NYGiants.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:13:38.375Z

The Giants punt after Jaxson Dart slips and Jermaine Eluemunor commits a pair of false start penalties.

Ohhhh, that's a huge hit on Daniel Bellinger. Surprised he isn't being taken off for a concussion check.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:10:58.155Z

Jaxson Dart looking to get Wan’Dale Robinson his 1,000 yard season.

3 passes, 3 completions to Wan'Dale Robinson for Jaxson Dart.

— Ed Valentine (@edvalentine.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T21:09:40.840Z

The Raiders won the opening coin toss and elected to defer to the second half. The Giants will get the opening kickoff.

If the Giants lose on Sunday to the Raiders, they'll all but be assured of the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) December 28, 2025

That, of course, is because both teams are 2-13 with the Giants at No. 1 and Raiders at No. 2 in the 2026 NFL Draft order. Per ESPN Analytics, here is the impact on the draft of Sunday’s outcome:

Giants​

Current chance at No. 1 pick: 37.6%
With loss: 73%
With win: 6%

Raiders​

Current chance at No. 1 pick: 36.2%
With loss: 69%
With win: < 1%

Both teams are playing without a number of key starters. The Giants this week placed Andrew Thomas, Tyler Nubin and John Michael Schmitz on injured reserve. The Raiders did the same with Maxx Crosby, Brock Bowers and Jeremy Chinn.

Keep it here for all of the in-game updates and discussion. Be sure to come back after the game for news, analysis, opinion, and a look at the updated draft order.

• 2026 NFL Draft: NY Giants to ‘look at Fernando Mendoza’ if they have No. 1 pick
• Giants vs. Raiders: Game time, TV channel, streaming, odds, radio, more

Source: https://www.bigblueview.com/game-da...eek-17-live-in-game-updates-scores-discussion