Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season left the New York Giants and their fanbase with a multitude of questions and frustrations. After an offseason filled with excitement and anticipation, the reality of the first game was a painful experience for players and supporters alike. Beyond the controversial and, frankly, unattractive jerseys commemorating the team’s 100 years in the league, several puzzling decisions from the Owner, GM, and coaching staff contributed to the team’s struggles. This article will delve into those decisions, with more detailed analyses of other aspects of the game to follow throughout the week.
Head-Scratching Lineup Choices
There are numerous questions surrounding the coaching and management decisions made during the game. As an outsider, it’s challenging to grasp the day-to-day dynamics of the team, but the following points raised eyebrows
Front Office Decisions Under Scrutiny
- Cor’Dale Flott’s Positioning: Why was Cor’Dale Flott playing the nickel position? Throughout training camp, he was primarily an outside corner. The Giants drafted Dru Phillips specifically for the nickel role, yet he only received 16 snaps. Phillips earned an impressive 84 grade from PFF and even forced a fumble right away. This raises the question: why not give the players who trained all summer a chance to shine?
- Limited Snaps for Jalin Hyatt: Jalin Hyatt, who has the potential to stretch the field and trained all summer with the first team, played a mere 16 snaps. This lack of utilization is perplexing given his capabilities.
- Isaiah Simmons’ Absence: Despite discussions all offseason about Isaiah Simmons being utilized in specific packages and potentially playing the nickel, he did not see any snaps during the game.
- Micah McFadden’s Situation: Micah McFadden, who was cleared to play after dealing with a groin injury, did not take a single snap. Instead, sixth-round rookie linebacker Darius played 85% of the snaps. While giving Darius a chance is important, why list McFadden as available and not use him, even for a few reps to relieve Bobby Okereke, who played 100% of the snaps?
Front Office Decisions Under Scrutiny
After Week 1, the decision to invest heavily in Daniel Jones while allowing Saquon Barkley to walk is already raising eyebrows. The performance of the team suggests that the front office may not have been fully prepared for the season opener, putting the team in a difficult situation from the start.