Remember when the New York Giants started the season 2-3? When it seemed like the 2024 season might actually hold some promise. Those days now feel like a lifetime ago.
The Giants, fresh off their bye week and now sitting at 2-8, hold the second-worst record in the NFL. At this point, they’ve shifted their focus to draft positioning. When head coach Brian Daboll announced Daniel Jones would be benched in favor of Tommy DeVito as the team’s starting quarterback, it wasn’t about sparking a comeback. This isn’t 2023 when the Giants could dream of playoff contention.
Benching Jones signaled the end of a six-year tenure marked by costly contracts, too many losses, and endless frustration. By sitting Jones, the Giants ensure his $23 million injury guarantee won’t be triggered, paving the way for his release in the offseason.
While fans are ready to fast-forward to the end of the season, the Giants still have seven games left to slog through. The first of those games is this Sunday at MetLife Stadium against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Unlike last season, when DeVito brought a brief spark, there’s little reason to expect a repeat against Tampa Bay.
Four reasons why the NY Giants will fall to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 12
The Buccaneers are still playing for the postseason
Unlike the Giants, who are once again headed toward the top of the NFL Draft order, the Buccaneers are clearly playing for something in 2024. They’re competing for another shot at the postseason.
Currently sitting at 4-6 and in the midst of a four-game losing streak, the Buccaneers remain in second place in the NFC South behind the Atlanta Falcons. They’re also firmly in the NFC playoff race, and a win would significantly improve their chances of staying in contention.
The Buccaneers were the NFC South champions last season and even won a playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Now, they’re eager to snap their losing streak with a win over the last-place Giants, which would bring them closer to .500 and help steady their season.
While the Giants are in the middle of their own five-game losing streak, the Buccaneers still have plenty to play for. That motivation gives them every reason to leave Sunday’s game at MetLife Stadium with a win.