The Giants finished the first half of the season on a high note, defeating the Las Vegas Raiders, 23-16, at MetLife Stadium. Daniel Jones completed 75 percent of his passes, the offense rushed for 149 yards and Xavier McKinney recorded two interceptions of Derek Carr, one of which he returned 41 yards for a touchdown.
The win gave the Giants two victories over the last three weeks, with the one loss coming by three points against the Chiefs in prime time at Arrowhead Stadium. During that stretch, the defense has surrendered an average of 13 points per game while forcing six total turnovers. Heading into the Week 10 bye, the Giants are one of just two teams in the NFL with at least one turnover in every game this season (Indianapolis Colts).
With eight games remaining on the schedule, here are five storylines to follow after the Giants' Week 10 bye.
Getting healthier
The bye is coming at an opportune time for the Giants. Heading into the Week 9 matchup against the Raiders, the offense welcomed back two of its top playmakers in Kenny Golladay and Kadarius Toney. However, each receiver was on the field for just 55 percent of the team's offensive snaps, combining for three catches and 37 yards. The week of rest should allow both playmakers to get close to 100 percent for the second half of the season.
The team is hopeful that two of its offensive starters will be able to make their returns when the Giants take the field in Tampa Bay in Week 11. Running back Saquon Barkley has missed the last four games due to an ankle injury suffered against the Cowboys in Week 5, while left tackle Andrew Thomas was placed on injured reserve after hurting his foot against the Rams in Week 6. Both players still have some ways to go before they're able to suit up, but Coach Joe Judge expressed optimism that both will be back for Week 11.
"I'd say for both guys based on the conversations that I've had today with trainers, I'm hopeful that we would be able to have both guys back for Tampa," Judge said on Monday. "I think we've got to give them an opportunity this week."
Barkley's replacement, Devontae Booker, left Sunday's game in the fourth quarter with a hip injury, although he was cleared to return to the game. Wide receiver Sterling Shepard (quad) and linebacker Lorenzo Carter (ankle) also missed the game against the Raiders, but it remains to be seen if the week off is enough time for either one to return to action.
From Daniel Jones' one-handed catch on a trick play to Xavier McKinney's pick-six to the OT thriller in New Orleans, re-live the best moments from the first half of the season in this must-see photo gallery.
New York Giants at Washington Football Team 2021
Leonard Williams (99)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) makes a catch in front of Denver Broncos cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants at Washington Football Team 2021
New York Giants at Washington Football Team 2021
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs away from Denver Broncos' Von Miller (58) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Broncos won 27-13. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scoring a touchdown against the Washington Football Team during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
John Ross (12)
Logan Ryan (23)
Keion Crossen (31), Cam Brown (47)
Daniel Jones (8)
Leonard Williams (99), Quincy Roche (95)
Leonard Williams (99)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Devontae Booker (28)
John Ross (12)
Daniel Jones (8), Kyle Rudolph (80)
Logan Ryan (23), Xavier McKinney (29)
New York Giants linebacker Quincy Roche (95) during a week 8 football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday November 1st, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri
New York Giants defensive tackle Austin Johnson (98) sacks Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during a week 3 football game on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Chase Young (99), Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
John Ross (12)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) celebrates a sack during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) celebrates a sack during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) sacks Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Devontae Booker (28) during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) celebrates a sack during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (52) during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) and defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) sack Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) during a week 6 football game on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) talks to his team mates before a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates the game winning touchdown during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter (59) during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
New York Giants wide receiver Kenny Golladay (19) during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Devontae Booker (28) during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) intercepts a pass during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate a touchdown during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Devontae Booker (28) during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
New York Giants linebacker Reggie Ragland (55) recovers a fumble during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run with guard Ben Bredeson (68) celebrates a touchdown run with during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter (59) celebrates an interception during a week 5 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas on Sunday October 10th, 2021,
New York Giants cornerback James Bradberry (24) intercepts a pass during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants cornerback James Bradberry (24) after intercepting a pass during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) after scoring a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during a week 8 football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday November 1st, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri
New York Giants linebacker Benardrick McKinney (49) during a week 8 football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday November 1st, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri
The New York Giants defense celebrates a James Bradberry interception during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants defensive tackle Danny Shelton (75) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants center Billy Price (69) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 8 football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday November 1st, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram (88) during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates a touchdown run with Nick Gates (65) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 8 football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday November 1st, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) before a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
The New York Giants enter the field before a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) makes a catch during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) celebrates a sack with Leonard Williams (99) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants linebacker Quincy Roche (95) during a week 8 football game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday November 1st, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants wide receiver John Ross (12) celebrates a touchdown with Saquon Barkley (26) during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants running back Elijhaa Penny (39) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) celebrates a tackle during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants defensive tackle Austin Johnson (98) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants head coach Joe Judge signals touchdown during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) and Dexter Lawrence (97) hug during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants wide receiver John Ross (12) makes a touchdown catch during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants wide receiver Dante Pettis (13) scores a touchdown during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants place kicker Graham Gano (5) kicks a field goal during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) dances during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (97) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants players runs out of the tunnel before a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants head coach Joe Judge talks with New York Giants defensive tackle Austin Johnson (98) before a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) celebrates a sack during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants head coach Joe Judge during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) celebrates a sack during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) chases Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold (14) during a week 7 football game on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants cornerback James Bradberry (24) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive tackle Austin Johnson (98) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants tight end Kyle Rudolph (80) and Evan Engram (88) celebrate a 2 point conversion during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants cornerback James Bradberry (24) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 6 football game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday October 17th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants place kicker Graham Gano (5) runs out onto the field before an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in East Rutherford. N.J. The New York Giants defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 23-16. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) runs a route during an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in East Rutherford. N.J. The New York Giants defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 23-16. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in East Rutherford. N.J. The New York Giants defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 23-16. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants center Billy Price (69) prepares to snap the ball during an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in East Rutherford. N.J. The New York Giants defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 23-16. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in East Rutherford. N.J. The New York Giants defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 23-16. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Devontae Booker (28) runs with the ball as Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton (54) and defensive end Mike Danna (51) give chase during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants running back Devontae Booker (28) rushes past Las Vegas Raiders free safety Trevon Moehrig (25) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John Munson)
New York Giants' Evan Engram (88) celebrates with teammate Collin Johnson, right, after catching a touchdown pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) runs after the catch against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 1, 2021 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
New York Giants wide receiver John Ross (12) makes this catch while being defended by Daniel Sorensen during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 1, 2021 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
New York Giants' Evan Engram (88) catches a pass in front of Las Vegas Raiders safety Johnathan Abram (24) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. Engram scored a touchdown on the play. (AP Photo/John Munson)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram celebrates after scoring during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates with Giants tight end Kyle Rudolph (80) after they connected for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 1, 2021 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)
New York Giants running back Devontae Booker (28) runs from Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Nick Bolton (54) during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants tight end Evan Engram scores during the second half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
New York Giants head coach Joe Judge reacts to a safety against the Carolina Panthers during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants safety Julian Love (20) is congratulated by cornerback Logan Ryan, right, after intercepting a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Carolina Panthers during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants safety Logan Ryan (23) runs against the Carolina Panthers during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants tight end Kyle Rudolph, right, catches a touchdown pass as Kansas City Chiefs safety Juan Thornhill (22) watches during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
New York Giants outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari (51) and New York Giants defensive end Leonard Williams (99) react against the Carolina Panthers during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants tight end Kyle Rudolph celebrates after scoring during the first half of an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) runs after a catch against the Dallas Cowboys during an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 10, 2021. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants' Leonard Williams (99) celebrates with teammates after the Giants scored on a safety during the first half of an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants kicker Graham Gano (5) kicks a field goal against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Sterling Shepard during the second half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John Munson)
New York Giants tight end Kyle Rudolph (80) runs past Carolina Panthers' Donte Jackson (26) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants cornerback James Bradberry (24) smiles after making an interception during the first half of an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws a pass as he is hit by New York Giants' Leonard Williams (99) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The play was ruled intentional grounding in the end zone, resulting in a safety. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) catches a pass in front of Carolina Panthers' Sean Chandler (34) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. The Giants won in overtime 27-21. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants nose tackle Austin Johnson (98) reacts after a sack against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Xavier McKinney during the first half of an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/John Munson)
New York Giants cornerback Adoree' Jackson (22) reacts against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants linebacker Lorenzo Carter celebrates after recovering a fumble by Atlanta Falcons running back Mike Davis during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores on a touchdown reception against New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning smiles while he attends a ceremony to retire his jersey number 10 and celebrate his tenure with the team during half-time of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) runs the ball during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) makes a touchdown catch against Washington Football Team cornerback William Jackson (23) during the second half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates after scoring on a two-point conversion during the second half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants head coach Joe Judge stands on the sideline during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Denver Broncos won 27-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning addresses the crowd during a ceremony to retire his jersey number 10 and honor his tenure with the team during half-time in an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants wide receiver C.J. Board (18) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against Washington Football Team cornerback Bobby McCain (20) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs downfield with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants wide receiver Kenny Golladay (19) runs the ball against Washington Football Team cornerback William Jackson (23) during the second half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) makes a touchdown catch against Washington Football Team cornerback William Jackson (23) during the second half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball up the field during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Denver Broncos won 27-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Tae Crowder (48)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Devontae Booker (28)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Leonard Williams (99)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Devontae Booker (28)
Raymond Johnson III (91)
Leonard Williams (99), Danny Shelton (75), Austin Johnson (98)
Danny Shelton (75)
Daniel Jones (8)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Devontae Booker (28)
Adoree' Jackson (22)
Kenny Golladay (19)
Leonard Williams (99)
Leonard Williams (99)
Daniel Jones (8)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Logan Ryan (23)
Matt Peart (74)
Kenny Golladay (19)
Kenny Golladay (19)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Evan Engram (88)
Riley Dixon (9), Graham Gano (5)
Evan Engram (88)
Tae Crowder (48), Leonard Williams (99), Dexter Lawrence (97)
Leonard Williams (99), Trent Harris (93), Logan Ryan (23)
Xavier McKinney (29)
Xavier McKinney (29)
Tae Crowder (48), Reggie Ragland (55), Dexter Lawrence (97)
Quincy Roche (95)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darius Slayton (86)
Darius Slayton (86)
Daniel Jones (8)
Collin Johnson (15)
Devontae Booker (28)
Elijhaa Penny (39)
Daniel Jones (8)
Jabrill Peppers (21)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Saquon Barkley (26), Billy Price (69)
Leonard Williams (99), Dexter Lawrence (97)
Leonard Williams (99)
Kenny Golladay (19)
Leonard Williams (99)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Daniel Jones (8), Billy Price (69)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Evan Engram (88)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Evan Engram (88)
Daniel Jones (8)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Adoree' Jackson (22)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Kyle Rudolph (80)
Devontae Booker (28), Head Coach Joe Judge
Kenny Golladay (19)
Reggie Ragland (55)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Kyle Rudolph (80)
Raymond Johnson III (91), Leonard Williams (99), Austin Johnson (98)
Riley Dixon (9), Graham Gano (5)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Julian Love (20)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Darius Slayton (86), Sterling Shepard (3)
Devontae Booker (28)
Devontae Booker (28)
Devontae Booker (28)
Saquon Barkley (26), Elijhaa Penny (39)
John Ross (12), Saquon Barkley (26)
Graham Gano (5)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Leonard Williams (99)
Leonard Williams (99), Azeez Ojulari (51)
Leonard Williams (99)
Daniel Jones (8)
James Bradberry (24)
Benardrick McKinney (49)
Leonard Williams (99)
Leonard Williams (99)
James Bradberry (24)
Azeez Ojulari (51), Leonard Williams (99), Oshane Ximines (53),
Kenny Golladay (19)
Leonard Williams (99)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Logan Ryan (23)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Blake Martinez (54), Lorenzo Carter (59), Jabrill Peppers (21)
Logan Ryan (23)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Leonard Williams (99)
Kenny Golladay (19)
Leonard Williams (99)
Leonard Williams (99)
Sterling Shepard (3)
Leonard Williams (99)
Logan Ryan (23)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Blake Martinez (54)
Logan Ryan (23)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Julian Love (20)
Leonard Williams (99)
Leonard Williams (99)
Kadarius Toney (89)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Leonard Williams (99)
Kenny Golladay (19)
Azeez Ojulari (51), Tae Crowder (48)
Evan Engram (88)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Evan Engram (88)
Evan Engram (88)
Evan Engram (88)
Kenny Golladay (19)
Azeez Ojulari (51), Leonard Williams (99)
Leonard Williams (99), Azeez Ojulari (51)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Daniel Jones (8)
Tae Crowder (48), Azeez Ojulari (51), Dexter Lawrence (97)
Daniel Jones (8)
Dexter Lawrence (97)
Azeez Ojulari (51)
Adoree' Jackson (22)
Kyle Rudolph (80)
Kyle Rudolph (80)
Evan Engram (88)
DJ's continued development
It's been an up-and-down season for Daniel Jones. The third-year quarterback got off to a fast start, averaging 296 passing yards per game with four touchdowns and just one interception through the first four games of the season. But over the last four weeks, Jones has topped 240 passing yards just once while throwing four interceptions with four touchdowns.
As the Giants enter their Week 10 bye, Jones is on pace to shatter his previous career-high mark in passing yards of 3,027 (set in his rookie campaign). Through nine games, Jones has 2,059 yards, eight touchdowns and five interceptions. His 64.8 completion percentage is more than two points higher than his previous high-mark of 62.5 percent last year.
"Overall, I think a lot of the things I wanted to do better, I think I've done some of them and that's been encouraging," Jones said on Tuesday. "I think at times I can be better protecting the ball and getting it out quicker and I think those are things I'm always focused on, so just being more consistent with that and continuing to work to improve."
Continuing the defensive surge
During last year's late-season run that had the team fall just short of making the playoffs, the Giants' defense put the team on its back and helped win some big games. After some struggles in the first six weeks of this season, we have started to see that same defense emerge over the last three weeks.
"I feel pretty good. I think the areas that I've talked about before – red area, third down, keeping those points down, two-minute – I think those are areas of emphasis and areas we improved on," defensive back Logan Ryan told reporters Tuesday. "I still think we can improve our tackling. We've been getting more turnovers, which is always the goal of defense, to get them off the field and make them kick field goals if they're in that position and get the ball. We've been doing a better job of that and we've got to continue doing that."
Entering Week 10, the Giants have surrendered touchdowns on 51.4 percent of opponents' trips inside the red zone, which is the sixth-best mark in the NFL. Over the last three weeks, the Giants have allowed opponents to convert on a mere 11 of 39 attempts on third down, an impressive 28.2 conversion percentage. This has helped the unit bring its season-long third down mark down to 38.1 percent, the 10th-lowest figure in the league.
Which young players will step up?
The Giants have gotten impressive performances from some of their young players in the first half of the season. Second-year safety Xavier McKinney has registered two multi-interception games, including a Pick 6 against the Raiders last week. McKinney has five interceptions in his first 15 games, becoming the first Giants player to accomplish this feat since Will Allen in 2001 and only the fourth in franchise history.
"He's a really good player, he's a smart player, he works hard," Ryan said about the young safety. "He's productive because he's good at finding the ball in the air. The good thing about Xavier is he had a ton of success in college obviously, and he came from a program that is used to that. He's able to come to work each and every day and he doesn't seem like he's acting any differently with the success. He seems like it's what he expects of himself and what we expect of him."
Joining McKinney in the Giants record books is rookie linebacker Azeez Ojulari. The 20-year-old started his NFL career by recording a sack in each of his first three games, becoming the first rookie in franchise history to reach this milestone and the first in the NFL since Myles Garrett did it in 2017. Ojulari's 5.5 sacks are tied with Leonard Williams for the team lead, and is the highest among NFL rookies.
First-round pick Kadarius Toney has also shown flashes of his immense potential. In Weeks 4 and 5, the young wide receiver was targeted 22 times, catching 16 passes for 267 yards. He showed off his abilities as a former quarterback in Week 8, completing a 19-yard pass to Sterling Shepard, and has also been used several times in the return game.
Before being injured, Andrew Thomas was enjoying a strong start to his second season. Thomas has earned a 76.4 pass block grade from Pro Football Focus this year, good for the 15th-best mark among NFL tackles. Meanwhile, rookie linebacker Quincy Roche has begun stepping up on the edge over the last two weeks, recording seven tackles (three solo), three quarterback hits and the strip-sack of Carr that sealed the Week 9 victory.
Over the last two games, the Giants have seen the NFL debuts of their third and fourth-round draft picks. Cornerback Aaron Robinson has played on 16 defensive snaps in two weeks, while linebacker Elerson Smith played two special teams snaps against Las Vegas. Those two, along with 2020 draft picks Matt Peart and Darnay Holmes, could be leaned on in the second half of the season.
Take advantage of second-half schedule
Regardless of how the season started, the Giants still have a chance to make a second-half push. Of the team's final eight games, only three matchups are against clubs that currently sport a record above .500. Those games are the Week 11 Monday night showdown against the 6-2 Tampa Bay Buccaneers (in Tampa), the Week 14 matchup against the 5-3 Chargers (in Los Angeles), and the Week 15 clash against the 6-2 Cowboys (at home).
The Giants' other five games come against the 3-6 Philadelphia Eagles (twice), the 2-7 Miami Dolphins (in Miami), the 3-6 Chicago Bears (in Chicago) and the 2-6 Washington Football Team (at home). And remember, the Giants hold the first and fourth-round picks of the Bears and the third-round pick of the Dolphins in the 2022 draft, meaning wins against those two clubs would enhance the value of those draft picks.
"The biggest thing we're focused on right now is just us, improving ourselves as a team and going 1-0 each week," Judge said Tuesday. "You do that, it'll take care of itself in the big picture. We're so far away from the end of the season where all of that stuff really comes together. Are you conscious of what's going on in the rest of the league? You are, but are you focused on it? No. Really, right now the most important thing is we play our best football and we match up against whoever we play."
Tickets for Michael Strahan Ceremony
Limited tickets are available for Michael Strahan's jersey retirement game on November 28th
