The New York Giants lost 29-21 to the Washington Commanders in Week 15, dropping their record to 2-12. The final score tells part of the story, but once again, the details reveal deeper issues. There were moments of promise, especially from a rookie who finally looked the part, but the same team-wide problems continue to hold this group back.
Abdul Carter Finally Makes His Presence Felt
This was the type of game everyone expected from Abdul Carter when the Giants selected him No. 3 overall in April. Carter was all over the field and played with the urgency and physicality that has been missing for stretches this season.
A Breakout Performance to Build On
Carter finished the game with seven total tackles, three tackles for a loss, one sack, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. He was disruptive in the backfield, active in pursuit, and constantly around the football. This was not a quiet stat-padding game. His impact was obvious on tape and felt throughout the afternoon.
The challenge now is consistency. The talent has always been there, but this team needs Carter to stack performances like this. If he continues to take his preparation seriously and brings this same edge every week, the Giants may finally have the defensive cornerstone they envisioned on draft night.
The Defense Still Cannot Stop the Run
As encouraging as Carter’s performance was, the overall defensive issues remain. The Giants once again struggled badly against the run, allowing 145 rushing yards and a touchdown. This has become a weekly problem, regardless of opponent.
Teams know exactly how to attack this defense. They run straight at it, control the clock, and force the Giants to play from behind. Until that changes, it is hard to see this unit making meaningful progress.
Coordinator Change Has Not Fixed Anything
The change from Shane Bowen to Charlie Bullen has not delivered results. The same issues show up every week. Poor gap discipline, missed tackles, and a lack of physicality at the point of attack continue to define this defense.
At some point, it becomes less about play calling and more about personnel and execution. Right now, the Giants are not winning up front, and that failure bleeds into every other part of the defense.
Special Teams Continue to Hurt the Giants
Another week, another special teams disaster. This unit played a major role in the loss and erased any margin for error.
Younghoe Koo missed two field goals, leaving six points on the field in a game where every possession mattered. On top of that, the Giants allowed a punt return touchdown that completely shifted momentum.
It is hard to justify performances like this at the NFL level. Based on the last two games alone, it would not be surprising if changes were made. That said, with only three games left, the Giants will likely ride it out.
It is especially frustrating because when Graham Gano is healthy, those kicks are usually automatic. His ongoing injury issues have quietly become another setback in a season full of them.
Jaxson Dart Battles Through Another Learning Game
Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart had an uneven day, but the effort never wavered. The first half was rough. Timing was off, and he missed a few throws he needs to make at this level.
In the second half, Dart settled down and played with more confidence. He moved the offense, made some tough throws, and kept fighting to give the Giants a chance. There were still missed opportunities, including a throw that should have gone for a touchdown, but the resilience matters.
Dart is learning under difficult circumstances. He is playing behind an inconsistent line, with limited help, and in mostly negative game scripts. While the results are not always clean, the compete level is encouraging.
Tyrone Tracy Delivers a Solid All-Around Game
Tyrone Tracy put together a respectable performance and made a bit of team history in the process. He became the first Giants player since Saquon Barkley in 2023 to record both a rushing touchdown and a receiving touchdown in the same game.
Tracy was not dominant, but he was effective. He continues to show versatility and effort, two traits this offense desperately needs. He has earned continued opportunities as the season winds down.
Darius Slayton’s Drops Are Again Costly
Darius Slayton continues to struggle with consistency. The drops are piling up, and this game included one that should have been a touchdown. The ball hit him in the hands, and the Giants came away with nothing.
For a young quarterback trying to gain confidence, those mistakes are damaging. At this point, Slayton has not played up to the expectations that came with his contract. Dependability matters, and right now, that is missing.
Mike Kafka’s Chances Continue to Fade
Interim head coach Mike Kafka is now 0-4 since taking over. The Giants are playing hard, and the effort is noticeable. However, effort alone does not win games.
With each loss, Kafka’s chances of becoming the permanent head coach in January grow smaller. The Giants may respect the fight, but results matter, and the wins are not coming.
Draft Position Is Now Front and Center
At 2-12, draft watch is no longer subtle. Every loss strengthens the Giants’ position near the top of the board. While players and coaches will continue to compete, the organization is clearly approaching a crossroads.
Abdul Carter’s breakout offers a glimpse of what this team could become. The question is whether the Giants can build on moments like that, or if these final weeks will simply confirm how much work still lies ahead.
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Ready for Redemption? Grab Tickets Now!
The past is behind us. A new season is coming, and hope is alive. Want to be there when the Giants start writing a new chapter? Head to StubHub to grab your tickets for the home opener at MetLife Stadium!
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