The rookie duo of Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo delivered a stunning performance, combining for five touchdowns to secure a remarkable 34-17 victory for the New York Giants against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday Night Football. This match marked a significant milestone for the Giants, showcasing the potential of their young talent in a game that will be remembered for years to come.
Quarterback Jaxson Dart, who was drafted as the 25th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, started only his third game in the league. He showcased his skills by throwing for one touchdown and running for another, demonstrating both his arm strength and mobility. Dart completed the game with 195 passing yards on 17-of-25 attempts, along with 58 rushing yards on 13 carries. His dynamic performance places him among the elite, as he became the third quarterback in the Super Bowl era to achieve 50 or more rushing yards in his first three starts, joining the ranks of Eagles star Jalen Hurts and two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson.
Cam Skattebo, selected in the fourth round of the same draft, made headlines with his remarkable performance. He rushed for 98 yards and scored three rushing touchdowns, becoming the second rookie in Giants history, and the first since 2011, to achieve three rushing scores in a single game. His exuberant celebrations, including a signature backflip and surfing move after each touchdown, have already made him a fan favorite.
The duo's success has not only brought excitement to the field but has also revitalized a New York Giants organization that has struggled in recent years. Their infectious positivity, highlighted by joint celebrations and engaging interactions with fans, has quickly endeared them to the New York fanbase. After the game, Skattebo emphasized the importance of teamwork and building a winning culture within the franchise. “We need to continue to build and build and build each and every day,” he stated, underscoring their commitment to transforming the team's fortunes.
Thursday's victory was particularly noteworthy as it marked the Giants' first win against a reigning Super Bowl champion since 1998. The Eagles, who had started the season strong at 4-0, faced a tough challenge from the Giants. The game began with New York taking an early 13-3 lead, but the Eagles rallied to briefly take a 17-13 advantage. However, from that point on, it was the Dart and Skattebo show, as the Eagles failed to score again, showcasing the Giants' defensive resilience.
Giants head coach Brian Daboll praised Dart's performance, acknowledging his toughness, field vision, and leadership qualities. “He’s not perfect, but he’s a leader,” Daboll remarked, reflecting on the potential he sees in the young quarterback. The Giants' victory improved their record to 2-4, while the Eagles fell to 4-2, raising concerns over their offensive consistency despite their star-studded lineup.
As the New York Giants continue to build on this historic win, fans are hopeful that the combination of Dart and Skattebo can lead the team to greater success. The excitement surrounding their performances indicates that the Giants are on the path to reclaiming their status as a competitive force in the NFL. With continued effort and teamwork, the future looks promising for both Dart and Skattebo, as well as for the franchise as a whole.
