It’s only Week 2, but the New York Giants might need to get a bit more creative if they’re going to survive a trip to Arlington, TX. There’s a lot on the line in this matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, but pride will be at the forefront.
Dallas has had their way with Big Blue. Dak Prescott is 13-2 all-time against the G-Men, entering the game winners of the last eight contests. It’s not the 12 in a row from 1974–1980, but we’re getting close. Teams are supposed to give their division rivals fits — the Giants do anything but, especially against the Cowboys. It’s time to flip the script.
New York might’ve gotten the memo. After losing Micah McFadden to injured reserve, the Giants claimed WR/KR Xavier Gipson off waivers. It was an interesting move, but Friday’s final injury report cleared up a lot of the confusion. Wan’Dale Robinson is apparently battling an ankle injury, which leaves him questionable to play Sunday. And while Gipson could see action, head coach Brian Daboll should utilize another playmaker to fill the potential void.
Wan'Dale Robinson could present interesting opportunity for Jalin Hyatt
If Robinson's ankle isn't good enough to go, Dabs should throw Jalin Hyatt in the slot. Yes, it would be an odd move, but hear me out.
Hyatt needs a change of... well, everything. Two-plus seasons into his NFL career, and the former best wide receiver in college football (Biletnikoff winner in 2022) has struggled to do much of anything. In 33 games, the 23-year-old has amassed 31 receptions for 435 yards. Those are rough numbers for any WR, but especially one the Giants traded up in the third round for back in 2023.
His struggles continued in Week 1 against the Washington Commanders for all the wrong reasons — he played a whopping zero snaps. He's completely phased out of the offensive game plan. Not great. It's time to put him in a position to succeed. It's time for him to move to the slot.
Hyatt is known for his down-the-field speed. He's a deep threat. Well, 33 games of tape would suggest otherwise. If Robinson can't go, why not give the former Tennessee standout a shot in the slot? What's the worst that can happen? He fits the slot receiver mold — he has the ideal speed, agility, and elusiveness to take advantage of mismatches for yards after the catch opportunities.
His college production and natural skill set point directly to the slot as the best way to highlight his strengths and hide the limitations that keep him from thriving outside (he's listed around 190 pounds).
With Robinson banged up and Gipson likely pegged for return duties only, this is the perfect shot to see what Hyatt can actually do. If it clicks, the Giants might finally unlock a weapon they’ve been misusing since Day 1.