The New York Giants pulled ahead 27-24 against the Arizona Cardinals late in the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, with Jameis Winston connecting with Theo Johnson for a touchdown that followed a costly holding penalty against Arizona on a field goal attempt.
Winston, starting in place of the injured Jaxson Dart for his second straight game, threaded a precise pass to Johnson over the middle, capping an explosive drive. Najee Harris then secured the two-point conversion with a run, putting the Giants up by three points.
Earlier in the fourth quarter, the Giants had benefited from a defensive stand, holding Cardinals’ quarterback Jeremiyah Love to just a 4-yard gain on second and 11 as the third quarter ended. The momentum swung quickly, however, as the Cardinals retook the lead 24-19 when Elijah Higgins broke free of Deonte Banks for a touchdown catch.
The Giants’ offense showed resilience on a crucial third-and-20, with Winston escaping pressure to deliver a 40-yard strike to Malachi Fields, who pushed the Giants deep into Arizona territory. That play set up the scoring drive that ultimately put New York ahead.
Defensively, rookie linebacker Arvell Reese made an impact, racking up four tackles, a tackle for loss, an interception, and three pass breakups in the first half alone. His interception came off a tipped pass by Shelby Harris, providing a momentum shift for the Giants.
The Giants’ offense struggled at times, turning the ball over on their opening possession after a holding penalty and an interception by Budda Baker. Winston’s throws were inconsistent early, with a notable overthrow that led to the turnover. However, he found rhythm later, connecting with Malik Nabers for a touchdown to put New York ahead 19-14 in the second quarter.
Special teams also played a role, as the Cardinals’ kicker nailed a career-long 60-yard field goal to narrow the deficit to 19-17 at halftime.
Injuries affected both squads. Giants’ defensive end Chauncey Golston was shaken up during a play where Banks made a pass breakup, requiring trainer assistance to leave the field. Wide receiver Braxton Berrios left the game with a foot injury and was questionable to return, while safety Jason Pinnock was being evaluated for a concussion.
The Giants were awarded a first down late in the game after a defensive holding penalty on the Cardinals during a field goal attempt, extending their drive. This penalty proved costly for Arizona as it allowed New York to maintain possession and eventually score the go-ahead touchdown.
Throughout the contest, the Giants showed flashes of explosive plays downfield, including Malik Nabers’ 28-yard gain and the big third-and-20 conversion to Fields. The Cardinals, meanwhile, relied on timely plays from Higgins and their special teams to stay within striking distance.
As the fourth quarter ticks down, the Giants hold a slim 27-24 lead at MetLife Stadium, with both teams fighting for control in a tightly contested game.
According to Yahoo Sports.
