Division rivals the New York Giants have turned their season around after a heartbreaking stretch of eight straight division losses. RETURNING STARS Quarterback Jaxson Dart emerged as a star himself last year. On the field, his presence has been a rallying point, imbuing the team with renewed energy and determination. The Giants began this week as underdogs by more than a touchdown, but recent performances suggest a potential turning point for the franchise.
Since Dart became the starter, the Giants have only played three games. They had the two most shocking wins of any team, beating the Los Angeles Chargers and Philadelphia Eagles. Dart gets out there and plays with such youthful exuberance. He’s calling the shots on the field and generating excitement in the locker room, earning him the respect of his teammates and infuriating their opponents’ fanbases. His fearless style of play, going headfirst into defenders, has come to represent that fearless attitude that’s been cultivated during this tune-up period.
Rookie player Cam Skattebo adds another layer to this mix with an understated energy that pairs nicely with Dart’s energy fill-it-up style. Skattebo’s style is characterized by his reckless abandon. He’s likened to a guy that tackles telephone poles and headbutts his new acquaintances, further contributing to the team’s playful, boyish demeanor. His contributions certainly haven’t flown under the radar as he’s emerged into one of the country’s best talents right alongside Dart.
The locker room culture at 1925 Giants Drive has shifted, too. Players’ goodwill towards each other is sincere. That creates a close-knit feel that has been lacking in seasons past. Lil’Jordan Humphrey, who had an All-American performance on Friday night, personifies this emerging attitude. The players know that their achievements over the past year have put smiles back on faces in their community.
Still, Daboll is understandably wary. He makes a clear argument for staying the course and not getting too giddy after some recent victories.
“But at the same time, as players, this is what we come to work every day to do. So, we can’t treat it as something that’s surprising or out of the ordinary.” – Lawrence
During the announcement, offensive coordinator Mike Kafka underscored Dart’s overall effect on the team, noting the ability of leadership to raise performance at all positions to a higher level.
“Yeah, whenever your leadership, and the quarterback particularly because he’s touching the ball every play, when you have that kind of spark, you have that kind of energy… that brings, it raises everyone’s level.” – Mike Kafka
Wan’Dale Robinson, another key player for the Giants, noted that Dart and Skattebo’s playing style brings an invigorating “juice” to the team.
“Definitely think they bring some juice just with the style that they play.” – Wan’Dale Robinson
At least the Giants’ fanbase has just as easily recognized the change in atmosphere. Their support has been reinvigorated by the team’s recent results, as they rally behind a squad that finally appears to be finding its footing after an extended period of losses.
Even with these changes, Lawrence stays humble about what’s to come. He knows how to win, serves as a reminder of the tremendous effort it takes to keep winning.
“We work our tails off to be able to go and win games. If we slouch at all in this league, you’re going to get beat. So, we’re just trying to prepare the right way and just keep the main thing the main thing.” – Lawrence
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