NY Giants studs and duds from disastrous 17-14 loss to Atlanta Falcons

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 26: Adoree' Jackson #22 of the New York Giants misses an interception during the fourth quarter in the game against Atlanta Falcons in the game at MetLife Stadium on September 26, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 26: Adoree' Jackson #22 of the New York Giants misses an interception during the fourth quarter in the game against Atlanta Falcons in the game at MetLife Stadium on September 26, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
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Aug 29, 2021; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) after the game against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

NY Giants LB Tae Crowder: STUD

Crowder was put into a difficult spot, getting forced into action when Blake Martinez was knocked from the game with a knee injury in the first quarter.

Not only was Crowder tasked with taking Martinez’ place at middle linebacker, but he was also given the headset helmet to handle the NY Giants’ communications on defense, and call out the signals.

Crowder exceeded expectations.

The second-year linebacker, out of Georgia, finished with a team-high 11 tackles.

Depending on the severity of Martinez’ injury, Crowder might be forced into a prominent role in coming weeks.

Matt Lombardo is FanSided’s National NFL Insider and writes Between The Hash Marks each Wednesday. Email Matt: Matt.Lombardo@FanSided.com.

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