The aftermath of the Jets-Giants’ game mainly revolved around quarterbacks.
Overall, it was a night that was over for any first-team highlights before halftime, and the majority of the game for both teams belonged to those trying to win jobs.
Still, the quarterbacks held center stage in the Giants’ 31-22 victory.
The Jets’ Sam Darnold looked like he as in mid-season form as he marched his team down the field to an opening-drive score. After he nearly throw an interception to Jabril Peppers, Darnold showed more confidence and a more calming presence as he threw on the run and rolled out of the pocket well.
Veteran and presumed backup Trevor Siemian and rookie Luke Falk both looked good with Siemian tossing a touchdown pass. Dais Webb looked out of sync with two interceptions.
Giants’ fans must have felt like they just received an early holiday gift when rookie Daniel Jones was sharp and effective in his series, threading a touchdown pass at the back of the end zone to Bennie Fowler for his fifth consecutive completion.
Alex Tanney looked good in relief and Kyle Lauletta had some moments late in the game.
Free agent TJ Jones had the best night of any receiver on either corps with his six catches for 72 yards with a touchdown, making his play to grab a roster spot with Sterling Shepard injured and Golden Tate likely to miss the first four games. Fowler showed that he has speed down field.
Eli McGuire had a better night catching the ball than running for the Jets. Yet, Deontay Burnett could be a future target for Darnold.
If he stays healthy, Jamison Crowder – who played the first series — will give the Jets a major threat outside.
With Saquon Barkley and Le’Vean Bell both out of the lineup, both running games were lackluster.
Paul Perkins, looking to recapture some of the magic he had with the Giants a few years ago, had trouble fighting his way. Trent Cannon, looming as the Jets’ punt returner, had a 12-yard burst to highlight the Jets’ attack. Ty Montgomery had some spurts in the opening drive, and he can be an explosive force in the future.
Defensively, neither team made enough plays to capture the night, but Giants’ free agent rookie and Stony Brook product linebacker Jake Carlock stole the show with a tipped interception for a touchdown and a sack.
So what’s ahead? The Jets will travel to Atlanta Thursday, where Gregg Williams’ defense will need to step up its game. The Giants’ defense will also need to improve as they host the Bears Friday in round with more of Daniel Jones and another battle of backups.
It will be another sorting game of quarterbacks and other spots before we’ll finally get a true look at the state of both teams in the dress rehearsal in two weeks.