Sports
New York Giants Struggle as Teammates Criticize Each Other Post-Loss
In a tumultuous week for the New York Giants, the team faced a significant setback with a 30-7 defeat against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium. This loss marks the Giants’ sixth consecutive defeat and leaves them with a dismal 2-9 record for the season. The game also highlighted internal strife within the team, as some players publicly criticized their teammates’ efforts on the field.
Defensive captain Dexter Lawrence expressed his frustration, labeling the team’s performance as «soft» and stating, «We played soft, and they beat the s— out of us today.» Lawrence did not attribute the defense’s shortcomings to lack of effort, though the Giants allowed 450 yards in total offense from the Buccaneers, with all of the opponent’s touchdowns coming from rushing plays.
Rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers echoed Lawrence’s sentiment, commenting on the play-calling that left him without a touch in the first half. Nabers shared his discontent: «First, second quarter, I don’t get the ball. Start getting targets at the end. I mean, can’t do nothing. Start getting the ball when it’s 30-0. What do you want me to do?»
The Giants’ offensive struggles were apparent as quarterback Tommy DeVito, starting in place of the recently released Daniel Jones, completed 21 of 31 passes for 189 yards, with a single touchdown in the fourth quarter. DeVito was under pressure throughout the game, getting sacked four times. Nabers argued, «It ain’t the quarterback. It was the same outcome when we had [Daniel Jones] at quarterback. Take a look. It ain’t the quarterback.»
Veteran offensive lineman Jermaine Eluemunor, who exited the game due to a quad injury, also voiced concerns about player effort. «I personally don’t think everybody is giving 100%,» Eluemunor stated, emphasizing the need for full commitment from every player. «We have to be real with everyone,» he added.
This internal discord suggests a deepening problem within the team’s dynamics, with potential implications for leadership, including head coach Brian Daboll. The Giants are now preparing for a Thanksgiving matchup, while fans and analysts alike are questioning the direction of the franchise and its ability to overcome the current challenges.