The NY Giants got their first taste of game action on Friday night in a 21-16 preseason loss to the Detroit Lions on the road. While Big Blue did not walk away in the win column, several players stood out with memorable moments that have fans excited about what is to come this season.
One of those moments came in the first quarter with 5:50 remaining on 2nd and 2 with Detroit threatening to score. Giants first-round pick Deonte Banks prevented Lions' speedy wideout Jameson Williams from getting in the end zone on a difficult route. The ball hit Williams' hands, and Big Blue's rookie defensive back was there to make his presence felt:
Deonte Banks V Jameson Williams here!
— Alex Wilson (@AlexWilsonESM) August 11, 2023
Banks runs step for step, Williams should've caught this but I like how Banks pulls his arms back, even if he caught it, nice technique by Banks to disrupt the process #NYG pic.twitter.com/yC4bIs0mMY
Deonte Banks' performance gives fans hope for a successful rookie year
"I thought I would have more build-up and nervousness, but I actually felt like I belonged here."Deonte Banks
Banks is projected to start opposite of veteran CB Adoree' Jackson, and with his performance this weekend against the Lions, Big Blue fans can be excited about the impact he will make in Year 1.
The rookie cornerback looks legit. He did not only play well in game action on Friday night, but during the Giants and Lions joint practices as well. Banks swatted away a pass intended for Detroit's top wideout Amon-Ra St Brown that fans loved to see:
Deonte Banks breaking up an Amon-Ra St. Brown target pic.twitter.com/wOmVGRi57x
— Bobby Skinner (@BobbySkinner_) August 9, 2023
With the G-Men facing a challenging schedule in 2023, which features several Pro Bowl wide receivers, watching Banks make plays on some of the league's best talent leaves fans with much hope for this season.
After an impressive week of joint practices and an NFL debut that consisted of two pass breakups, including the show-stopping play on Williams, it's safe to say Banks will be a fan favorite this fall and winter.
READ MORE: 5 NY Giants who impressed in the preseason opener vs. the Lions