Giants coach questions mid-game hit on rookie quarterback in preseason loss to Vikings
Giants head coach John Harbaugh said the mid-section hit on rookie QB Jaxson Dart should not have occurred and discussed other game decisions, including a missed long field-goal attempt.
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart underwent a concussion protocol after a mid-section hit during Saturday’s preseason matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. Head coach John Harbaugh said the contact should not have happened, describing it as a lapse in basic protection. The hit came from Vikings safety Jay Ward after running back Tyrone Tracy failed to pick up the blitz.
Harbaugh also explained why the team did not attempt a 62-yard field-goal by kicker Dominic Zvada with 2:29 left in the game. He cited wind conditions and the distance as factors, noting that the decision was made in consultation with special-teams coordinator Chris Horton.
The coach praised third-round pick Malachi Fields, who caught a 15-yard touchdown pass from Dart, highlighting his performance on special teams, blocking, and route running. Harbaugh said Fields “didn’t play like a rookie.”
Addressing criticism over a deep route that went to Odell Beckham Jr., Harbaugh defended quarterback Jameis Winston’s decision, explaining that Winston was under pressure and could not scan the entire field. He described the play as a “seam route” that was correctly executed.
The Giants will travel to Miami for their second preseason game on Saturday and will hold a padded joint practice with the Dolphins on Thursday. Harbaugh outlined the team’s practice schedule for the week, alternating between shell and padded sessions.