One significant takeaway from the New York Giants' disappointing 21-6 loss to the Washington Commanders is that the offense failed to show up, and the issue began before the ball was even kicked when Big Blue fans learned the team would be without franchise left tackle Andrew Thomas.
The Giants allowed 22 pressures on 45 dropbacks (49%) against the Commanders on Sunday, and with the offensive line struggling tremendously, it was difficult for quarterback Russell Wilson to generate anything on offense in his Big Blue debut.
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Not only did the G-Men fail to score a touchdown, but their drives also lacked any explosive plays; however, one player rose to the occasion when his number was called and showed us all the significant role he could play this season.
Wan'Dale Robinson proved why he could be a dangerous weapon this year
While the G-Men's run game was nonexistent and did not find a lot of success in the passing game, Wan'Dale Robinson led the team in catches with six receptions, totaling 55 yards.
Big Blue needed an offensive playmaker to step up, with Malik Nabers being held to just five receptions for 71 yards, and Tyrone Tracy Jr. held to 24 yards on 10 carries. The fourth-year wideout stepped up to give the Giants' offense some life, but there weren't any specific plays that stood out more than others from Wan'Dale, as it was a quiet day overall for everyone.
Wilson missed Robinson in the end zone on fourth and goal with 2:39 remaining in regulation, allowing the Commanders to take over on downs and ultimately run out the clock. The touchdown would've at least allowed the G-Men to cut the deficit down to one score.
While the Giants may have dropped a frustrating Week 1 game to the Commanders, it's a long season, and the focus shifts to next Sunday when they'll head to Dallas to take on the Cowboys. Although the Cowboys' defense will be without Micah Parsons, the Giants will need Wan'Dale to have another encouraging performance next week.