The legend of Jaxson Dart grows and other key takeaways from the Giants’ dominant victory over the Jets in preseason game two
The New York Giants dominated the New York Jets 31-12 in their second preseason game, featuring an exhilarating performance by rookie Jaxson Dart
The New York Giants dominated the New York Jets in a 31-12 victory at MetLife Stadium. After their first two games, they hold an undefeated preseason record.
With such a big victory, the Giants had numerous positives, including another impressive performance by rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart.
Let’s dig into what stood out from tonight’s win.
Jaxson Dart does it again
After Dart stole the hearts of Giants fans with his promising first performance against the Buffalo Bills, he followed it up with an even better game against the Jets.
The most impressive piece is the ramp-up in aggressiveness and decisiveness he’s had week over week. Every drop back felt like Dart knew where to turn if his initial read wasn’t there. From dumping off to Dante Miller to escaping the pocket to pick up a handful of yards, his lack of hesitation is refreshing.
If Dart continues to play like this, he deserves a shot to start by the halfway point of the year. He’s 26/35 for 291 yards in two preseason games with three total touchdowns.
Depending on the Giants’ record, if they’re out of the playoff mix, he appears to be way more comfortable than your average rookie.
Cor’Dale Flott is starting to separate
Flott and former first-round pick Deonte Banks are in a closely documented battle for the second starting outside cornerback spot. Last week, Banks performed uninspiringly in most of the first half. Against the Jets, Flott made a very impressive play against Garrett Wilson.
While one play won’t decide a position battle, this rep win deserves recognition. Wilson is one of the most productive young receivers in the NFL. Flott recovering and disrupting the catch point in this manner is at a starter level.
The moon ball works in New York
The play of the game was when Russell Wilson connected with undrafted free agent Beaux Collins on an 80-yard deep shot. That play was incredibly promising for Collins and for the Giants’ offensive play-calling.
For Collins, tracking this ball effectively and turning upfield was impressive. It will be very hard to crack the final roster spots in the WR room, but Collins’ impressive camp run and play could help make a case for him. At the very least, it feels very likely that Collins will be on the Giants’ practice squad.
For Wilson and the starting offense, being capable of taking shots like this with backup receivers in the game adds a layer the Giants offense hasn’t had in the past. Once Malik Nabers returns to the lineup, this passing attack could outperform everyone’s expectations.
Dante Miller has another productive day
One of the most interesting stories to follow through training camp is the path of former UDFA running back Dante ‘Turbo’ Miller. Last week, he earned the honors of offensive player of the game and a shout-out from head coach Brian Daboll.
Today’s stats weren’t as gaudy, but he finished with four receptions for 43 yards and a 22-yard kick return. The case for Miller sticking on the roster as a special teamer gets stronger every week.
The Giants shift their focus to their final preseason game this Thursday, August 21, against the New England Patriots.
