The New York Giants faced another challenging Thursday Night Football matchup, unable to replicate their historic comeback magic this time. They fell to the undefeated San Francisco 49ers by a score of 30-12, making it their third consecutive game where they struggled in the first half, being outscored 63-6 in total.
The Giants now have a much-needed 11-day break before their next game, hosting the Seattle Seahawks on Monday Night Football. This game marks their third primetime appearance in the first four weeks of the season.
Injuries plagued the Giants heading into the 49ers matchup, with four players ruled out. Among them were key offensive contributors: running back Saquon Barkley (ankle), left tackle Andrew Thomas (hamstring), and interior offensive lineman Ben Bredeson (concussion). Barkley’s injury occurred in the Giants’ dramatic victory against the Cardinals, with his lower leg bending awkwardly in the final minutes of the game.
With Thomas and Bredeson sidelined, the Giants had to field their third different offensive line in as many games, featuring Joshua Ezeudu, Shane Lemieux, rookie John Michael Schmitz, Marcus McKethan, and Evan Neal from left to right.
Wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson made his 2023 debut, catching four passes for 21 yards. Robinson had a promising rookie season cut short by an ACL injury but showed his potential in the game.
The Giants struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, managing only 88 yards and converting three of seven first downs. The 49ers controlled the time of possession, leading 20:00 to 10:00, and outgained the Giants 441-150 in total yards, 141-29 in rushing yards, and 39:10 to 20:50 in time of possession.
This marked the third consecutive game where the Giants fell behind significantly in the first half, being outscored 63-6 in total during these periods.
Matt Breida started in place of the injured Barkley and found the end zone with an eight-yard run, bringing the Giants within five points early in the second half. However, the 49ers closed the game with 13 unanswered points, and the Giants couldn’t mount a comeback.
Rookie wide receiver Jalin Hyatt, who had a standout performance in Week 2, did not receive any targets in this game. Outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari also missed his second consecutive game due to a hamstring injury.
The Giants finally recorded their first takeaway of the season when Kayvon Thibodeaux sacked Brock Purdy on the opening drive. The defense stepped up with Leonard Williams and D.J. Davidson combining for the Giants’ second sack.
Inside linebacker Micah McFadden had an impressive game, tallying four tackles for loss, setting a personal best, and leading the team with 11 tackles.
The Giants struggled on defense to get off the field, as the 49ers converted seven of their 10 third-down attempts and controlled the clock for the majority of the first half.
Rookie cornerback Deonte Banks suffered an arm injury in the first half, leading to Adoree’ Jackson moving to the outside, while Darnay Holmes took over the slot cornerback position.
Graham Gano continued his impressive kicking performance by tying a franchise record with a 57-yard field goal late in the first half. This marked his 21st field goal from 50 yards or longer with the Giants, solidifying his place in franchise history.
Injuries, a slow start in the first half, and the 49ers’ dominance on third downs all contributed to the Giants’ 30-12 loss in a challenging Thursday Night Football matchup.
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