Let’s be honest: the New York Giants’ victory over the Philadelphia Eagles was more than just a win—it was a statement. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was this a fluke, or the start of something truly special? After a disheartening start to the 2025 season, the Giants’ triumph felt like a breath of fresh air. Yet, nothing compares to beating a division rival that’s dominated you for over a decade—especially when you’re running out the clock in the final minutes. The last time that happened? Coincidentally, it was the final game of 2023, the last time the Giants beat the Eagles before last night. And while that 2023 win over Green Bay was memorable, it only served to complicate the Giants’ draft prospects. But last night? We’re still not sure what it means. Could they stumble in Denver next week, just like they did in the Superdome after their Chargers win? Or is this the beginning of a turnaround—maybe not this season, but for the team’s long-term future?
Before we dive into the Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades, let’s set the stage. You’d think this victory would earn the Giants their highest PFF grades of the season, right? Spoiler alert: It didn’t. Here’s why: PFF grades focus solely on individual performance—how well each player executed their role on every play. They don’t factor in the game’s importance, the opponent’s strength, or the mental toughness required. So, while the Giants’ overall grade last night was slightly lower than their Dallas game, it’s not because they played worse. In fact, their running and special teams grades were the best of the season—something we often overlook unless there’s a highlight-reel return.
Now, let’s break it down.
Offense:
For the first time this season, no Giants offensive player scored below 50. Progress? Absolutely. Last week, three players were in the 40s, and one in the 30s. Let’s start with Jaxson Dart, who was nothing short of spectacular. He threw a TD, made a big-time throw, and avoided turnover-worthy plays. And this is the part most people miss: Dart thrived under pressure, with a grade almost as high as when he was kept clean. His 2.22-second release time when clean was impressive, but his 4.44 seconds under pressure? That’s not a flaw—it’s a feature. Dart keeps plays alive, looking downfield instead of panicking. His 195 yards included 97 under pressure, with an average depth of target (ADOT) of 15.0—no dinking and dunking here.
The receiving grades, however, are where PFF’s limitations show. Wan’Dale Robinson’s 70.6 grade feels low given his TD play, where he eluded the safety and weaved through blockers. Lil’Jordan Humphrey’s 62.6 grade also seems unfair after two contested catches. Jalin Hyatt’s 55.2 grade is puzzling—his first catch was impressive, and he drew a DPI that led to a TD.
In the rushing department, Dart’s TD showcased his dual-threat ability. Skattebo’s 80.7 grade was well-earned, with 64 of his 98 yards coming after contact.
The offensive line? A mixed bag. Jon Runyan gave up four pressures, but the rest of the line allowed just six combined, with no sacks. John Michael Schmitz excelled before his injury, and Austine Schlottman stepped in seamlessly. Jermaine Eluemunor and Andrew Thomas held their own, though Greg Van Roten’s 50.8 grade was below average.
Defense:
Holding the Eagles to 17 points should’ve earned the defense rave reviews, but PFF’s grades were underwhelming. Dane Belton’s 93.9 grade (thanks to a forced fumble) stood out, but others were overlooked. Brian Burns’ two sacks earned him just a 64.0, while Kayvon Thibodeaux’s four pressures netted him a 50s grade. Bold question: Are PFF grades undervaluing impact plays?
The run defense grades were more reasonable, with Thibodeaux, Rakeem Nunez-Roches, Tyler Nubin, and Roy Robertson-Harris shining. Pass coverage was a mixed bag—Belton and Cor’Dale Flott (with a game-changing interception) impressed, but Nubin’s 47.7 grade after giving up 67 yards was harsh.
Snap Counts:
On offense, four of five linemen played every snap, with Schlottman replacing Schmitz. Dart played all but two snaps, and Skattebo solidified his role as the featured back. On defense, Flott’s emergence ended the CB2 rotation, while Bobby Okereke and Dexter Lawrence were staples.
Final Thoughts:
This win was huge, but the PFF grades remind us that stats don’t tell the whole story. Controversial take: Do PFF grades truly capture the essence of a game? Let’s debate—are these grades fair, or do they miss the bigger picture? Sound off in the comments!
