Giants defeat Cowboys 28-20 as PFF grades highlight mixed performances

The New York Giants secured a 28-20 win over the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium, improving to 1-0 under head coach John Harbaugh. Pro Football Focus (PFF) gave quarterback Jaxson Dart a 65.8 grade for completing 23 of 29 passes for 230 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions, noting that his performance was solid when not under pressure but lacked deep throws.

The offensive line did not allow a sack and avoided penalties, though individual grades varied, with right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor and rookie right guard Sisi Mauigoa receiving positive marks, while other linemen were rated lower. Running back Cam Skattebo earned a 67.4 grade after scoring a touchdown but also fumbling, and Dart’s rushing received a 78.1 grade.

Wide receiver Isaiah Likely led the receiving corps with an 82.8 grade, catching all eight targets for two touchdowns. Malik Nabers and Devin Singletary also posted respectable grades, and the unit recorded no drops.

Defensively, four players logged all 58 snaps, and Abdul Carter earned the highest composite grade at 90.3, leading the pass rush with an 83.7 rating. The Giants’ run defense received a 54.3 grade, with D.J. Reader scoring a 74.5 grade, while recent signings Shelby Harris and C.J. Okoye were graded poorly. Safety Jevon Holland posted a 73.2 coverage grade, and rookie linebacker Tremaine Edmunds recorded a 71.7 grade, while several defensive backs received low marks for coverage and penalties.

Overall, the game highlighted strong individual contributions from the quarterback and certain defensive players, but also underscored inconsistencies in line play and run defense.