Advertise on podcast: 2 Giant Goofballs: A NY Giants Podcast

Jonathan Taylor could give the New York Giants a premier running back for their NFC East push, but acquiring him could cost valuable draft picks that Joe Schoen needs to build the roster. Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. The Big Question: Is Jonathan Taylor worth multiple draft picks for the New York Giants? Drew and Rob question whether the Giants should surrender significant draft capital for a running back when the team has other needs, particularly along the defensive line. With the November 10 NFL trade deadline approaching, Indianapolis has reportedly received an offer from New York, and the Colts are holding out for substantial compensation. The discussion gets especially heated when the hosts react to a proposed three-pick package and counteroffer described in The Athletic's trade-negotiation exercise. Would paying a second-, third-, and fourth-round pick be too much? Would Taylor provide enough long-term value? And could the Giants find a less expensive alternative? The episode begins with the Giants preparing for their NFC East showdown against the Philadelphia Eagles. New York is favored, but Malik Nabers and Cam Skattebo are dealing with injuries, while Philadelphia has availability questions involving Saquon Barkley, DeVonta Smith, and other key contributors. Drew and Rob make their predictions and debate whether the Giants can take advantage of the Eagles' struggles. Malik Nabers also earned NFC Offensive Player of the Month honors after a dominant October. Is he already one of the NFL's five best receivers? The hosts also discuss Derrick Brown trade possibilities, John Harbaugh's confidence in rookie kicker Dominic Zvada, and Tom Coughlin's latest Hall of Fame consideration. Then it's time for NFL Week 9 predictions across the league. Drew and Rob debate outright winners, point spreads, totals, quarterback changes, and potential upsets, including Bengals–Falcons, Cowboys–Colts, Packers–Patriots, Chiefs–Jets, and Raiders–49ers. Which big NFL favorites are vulnerable against the spread? The show finishes with Cardinals–Seahawks, Buccaneers–Bears on Sunday Night Football, and Bills–Vikings on Monday Night Football. From backup quarterback uncertainty in Seattle and Minnesota to the pressure facing Josh Allen against Brian Flores' defense, Week 9 offers plenty of opportunities for surprises. For Giants fans, the question is bigger than one weekend: should New York sacrifice future draft capital to strengthen its chances of winning the NFC East right now? Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The New York Giants can strengthen their NFC East lead with a victory in Philadelphia, but losing to an Eagles team riding a six-game losing streak would be a major setback. Meanwhile, a potential Jonathan Taylor trade could address New York's running back concerns at the cost of valuable draft capital. Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. The Big Question: Is Giants vs. Eagles a trap game for New York? The Giants enter Philadelphia as NFC East leaders, facing a 2-6 Eagles team turning to Joe Milton III at quarterback. New York has the advantage on paper, but Philadelphia's rivalry history, Milton's mobility, and the Giants' struggles defending the run make this matchup more complicated than the standings suggest. Drew and Rob debate whether the Giants should pressure Milton aggressively or prioritize keeping him in the pocket. They examine Philadelphia's struggling offense, the Giants' defensive weaknesses, and J.J. McCarthy's opportunity to build on his success against Vic Fangio's defense following the bye week. Can New York finally take advantage of a vulnerable Eagles team, or could overlooking Philadelphia threaten its division lead? Injuries add another layer of uncertainty. Cam Skattebo's hamstring injury raises questions about the Giants' running back depth, while Abdul Carter's illness creates additional defensive concerns. Philadelphia is also dealing with significant injuries, including concerns surrounding Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith. Drew and Rob discuss how these potential absences could influence Sunday's game. Should the Giants pay the price for Jonathan Taylor? ESPN's Jordan Raanan reports that New York has made an offer for Jonathan Taylor, although no agreement has been announced. Drew and Rob debate Indianapolis' reported asking price, whether the Giants should surrender premium draft picks, and whether defensive tackle help might provide greater value. The conversation also covers Greg Newsome II's reported three-year, $46 million extension, the debate over how much immediate salary cap space it creates, and reports that Deonte Banks declined a separate extension offer. Is Banks right to bet on himself, and what does Newsome's deal mean for the Giants' secondary? Can Baltimore survive Thursday Night Football without its starting quarterbacks? The Jacksonville Jaguars visit the Baltimore Ravens with rookie Joe Fagnano expected to start at quarterback. Drew and Rob debate whether Derrick Henry can carry Baltimore against Jacksonville's strong defense, examine the Jacoby Brissett trade situation, and offer their predictions for the game. From the NFC East race to the NFL trade deadline, the Giants face important decisions that could shape the rest of their season. Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The New York Giants gained ground in the NFC East without playing a single snap, but turning their division lead into a championship run could require sacrificing valuable draft picks. With Big Blue sitting at 4-2-1 and the trade deadline approaching, John Harbaugh and Joe Schoen face a tough decision: make an aggressive move now or protect the team's future? Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Can the Giants win the NFC East without making an expensive trade?  New York leads the division, but Drew and Rob argue that addressing the run defense could be more valuable than spending premium draft capital on a star running back. The Giants' bye week couldn't have worked out much better. Dallas blew a 14-point fourth-quarter lead against Arizona and lost 33-30 in overtime, while Philadelphia suffered its sixth consecutive defeat in a 27-10 loss to Washington. New York now sits atop the NFC East at 4-2-1, with every division rival below .500. Drew and Rob debate whether the Giants have legitimately become the division's best team or are benefiting from the struggles of their rivals. But first place creates pressure of its own. John Harbaugh confirmed that he contacted Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk in an attempt to pursue defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons before the Bears completed the trade. The Giants have also reportedly explored Daron Payne and shown interest in Colts running back Jonathan Taylor. With Taylor's reported asking price remaining high, would adding another offensive star really be worth the cost? Drew and Rob examine the potential price of a Jonathan Taylor trade, discuss Breece Hall and Tony Pollard as possible alternatives, and argue over whether the Giants should instead prioritize defensive tackles Christian Barmore and Grover Stewart. Improving the team's run defense could make an already competitive Giants team substantially more dangerous without sacrificing the draft capital required for a blockbuster move. Is Grover Stewart actually a better Giants trade target than Jonathan Taylor? The discussion turns to why defensive tackle may be New York's biggest roster weakness and whether building a dominant defense gives the Giants their best chance to win the division. The guys also examine Cam Skattebo's uncertain injury status heading into Philadelphia, Tyrone Tracy Jr.'s injured reserve designation, and Eric Gray's return to the practice squad. With two crucial NFC East matchups approaching, the Giants need to capitalize on the opportunity their rivals have handed them. Are the Eagles really as bad as their six-game losing streak suggests? Philadelphia's continued struggles put additional pressure on Nick Sirianni ahead of the Giants' upcoming visit. Drew and Rob examine the Eagles' offensive problems, the significance of Washington's 27-10 victory, and why New York should be expected to compete for the division title. The second half of the episode features the full NFL Week 8 recap and the weekly picks competition. The guys revisit Arizona's comeback against Dallas, Buffalo's dominant victory over Baltimore, Cincinnati's overtime win against Tennessee, Detroit handing Minnesota its first loss, Jacksonville crushing Indianapolis, Tampa Bay's unusual rain-soaked shutout of Atlanta, Denver's comeback against Kansas City, and the rest of the NFL action. Along the way, Drew and Rob compare their predictions, point spreads, over/unders, and weekly scores while sharing plenty of opinions about the Cowboys, Eagles, Jets, and the rest of the league. The Giants are in first place. The division is theirs to fight for. But can they take advantage without making a costly mistake at the trade deadline? Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The New York Giants are 4-2-1 and leading the NFC East, but trying to turn that first-place start into a playoff run could cost Joe Schoen valuable draft picks. John Harbaugh has the locker room responding, and the question now is whether the Giants should invest in another impact player or trust the roster that got them here. Follow us on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Should the New York Giants trade premium draft picks to improve their playoff chances in 2026? The Giants have a legitimate opportunity to compete for the NFC East, but any trade needs to justify both its immediate impact and its long-term cost. Drew and Rob open with John Harbaugh's accountability meeting after the loss to New Orleans. Players and coaches were called out, and the Giants responded with a victory over Houston. Jermaine Eluemunor says Harbaugh is tougher than Brian Daboll, while Patrick Ricard has described a locker room buying into the coach's standards. Is that accountability the reason the Giants are finally winning? Jameis Winston and Jaxson Dart are also drawing praise for helping J.J. McCarthy. Both quarterbacks have continued supporting the current starter, with Winston working through game situations and Dart contributing while recovering from injury. Drew and Rob discuss the leadership this demonstrates and whether the Giants should consider another quarterback change if McCarthy keeps winning. The trade deadline presents a much harder decision. Tony Pauline reports that Indianapolis wants a first-round pick for Jonathan Taylor, while ESPN's Adam Schefter has reported a third-round valuation for Josh Downs. The hosts examine both prices, the possibility of pairing Taylor with Cam Skattebo, and whether either player addresses a major enough need to justify the cost. Would you give up a first-round pick for Jonathan Taylor, or is that too much for a team still building for the future? Other potential acquisitions also get attention, including Maxx Crosby, Daron Payne, Khalil Mack and J.K. Dobbins. Drew and Rob debate whether the Giants would be better served adding help on the defensive line, at linebacker, or elsewhere rather than spending heavily on another offensive weapon. The Giants enter their bye week atop the NFC East, but two immediate division games against Philadelphia and Washington await them. The hosts examine the contributions of Malik Nabers, Isaiah Likely, Arvell Reese and other key players, discuss Cam Skattebo's comeback documentary, and evaluate Dominic Zvada's recent kicking struggles and the injury concerns surrounding the roster. The majority of the remaining episode is devoted to NFL Week 8 predictions, with Drew and Rob going through the matchups, choosing winners, comparing betting spreads and debating totals. Can Jacksonville take advantage of an Indianapolis team selling veteran talent? Does Lamar Jackson's return make Baltimore dangerous against Josh Allen and Buffalo? Will Minnesota remain undefeated against Detroit? Can the Cowboys avoid another defensive disaster against Arizona? And which team wins the critical Chiefs-Broncos rivalry matchup? The NFC East takes center stage again when the Eagles face the Commanders. With both rivals trying to catch the Giants, Drew and Rob discuss why a Washington victory could benefit Big Blue and how the result might shape the division coming out of the bye. Finally, the Bears and Seahawks meet Monday night following two major roster moves. Chicago acquired Jeffery Simmons from Tennessee for a substantial package of draft picks, while Seattle added Quenton Nelson. The hosts debate which team made the smarter investment and how those additions could affect the game. The Giants have put themselves in position to compete for the division. The decisions made during the bye and at the trade deadline could determine how far they go. Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

Jonathan Taylor could give the first-place New York Giants a proven star at running back, but acquiring him might mean sacrificing a second-round draft pick when Joe Schoen is already short on draft capital. Drew and Rob debate whether that potential boost to the Giants' playoff chances is worth the long-term cost. Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Should the Giants trade a second-round pick for Jonathan Taylor? Drew argues that Taylor's production and remaining contract could justify the investment, while Rob initially leans against sacrificing a premium pick. As they examine the numbers, both become more open to the idea—but agree that the Giants cannot afford to overpay. The Giants are 4-2-1 and leading the NFC East. After years of disappointing seasons, meaningful football is finally back in New York. Joe Schoen faces a difficult decision: spend valuable draft capital to improve the current roster or protect those picks for a team that is still building toward sustained success. Would Jonathan Taylor really be the missing piece? The guys examine Taylor's production, contract, age, and injury history. They debate whether a second-round pick would be worth the risk, especially if the Giants win the division and that selection falls later in the round. Drew considers how Taylor could help J.J. McCarthy immediately and Jaxson Dart in future seasons, while Rob weighs the value of using that selection to improve the offensive or defensive line. Cam Skattebo's performance against Houston adds another wrinkle. If the Giants can already run the football effectively with their current backs and blocking adjustments, is a major investment at running back necessary? Or should Joe Schoen focus on stopping the run? Grover Stewart and former Giant Dalvin Tomlinson enter the discussion as potential defensive tackle additions. Drew and Rob examine the Giants' interior defensive-line issues and whether a proven run defender would do more for this roster than an expensive running back. They also discuss Josh Downs and Maxx Crosby as speculative trade possibilities, while distinguishing rumors and hypothetical fits from confirmed negotiations. The Giants have already made several roster changes. Tyrone Tracy Jr. is on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, rookie Gregory Desrosiers has joined the active roster, and veteran Dean Lowry has been added to the practice squad. The guys assess what those moves mean for the running back rotation and defensive-line depth. Joe Schoen's bye-week press conference also raises questions about the future of several players already on the roster. Drew and Rob discuss potential contract extensions, Deonte Banks' turnaround, Arvell Reese's impressive rookie production, Jermaine Eluemunor's performance, and Jaxson Dart's recovery. The quarterback discussion also turns to J.J. McCarthy, Jameis Winston, and the value of veteran depth. How much should the Giants trust their 4-2-1 start? With New York sitting atop the division, the guys review the team's offensive and defensive numbers, John Harbaugh's impact, and the challenge awaiting the Giants immediately after the bye. Road games in Philadelphia have been a problem for years, and the upcoming Eagles and Commanders matchups could determine whether Big Blue can maintain control of the NFC East. The episode closes with a Panthers-Packers Thursday Night Football preview. Drew and Rob evaluate Bryce Young, Jordan Love, the injuries affecting both teams, and Green Bay's struggles on the ground before making their predictions. GEAR UP & SUPPORT THE SHOW Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

Cam Skattebo's physical running gives the New York Giants an edge, but that same aggressive style could cost him more penalties and fines. After the Giants' overtime victory against Houston, Skattebo called out the NFL for promoting the very physicality it penalizes. Follow us on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy honest, no-BS Giants football debates. Is Cam Skattebo right about the NFL's double standard?  His helmet contact can violate the rules while his larger complaint about the league's promotion of physical football can still be legitimate. Drew and Rob debate Skattebo's 15-yard helmet penalty, his previous $7,073 fine, and his refusal to change his running style. They explain why the penalty itself was defensible while questioning the NFL's mixed messaging. John Harbaugh's defense of Skattebo adds another layer: How is a running back supposed to protect himself and the football without risking a penalty? The conversation turns to Dominic Zvada, who has missed five of his last nine field-goal attempts. Despite those struggles, Harbaugh says the Giants aren't bringing in kicker competition right now. Drew and Rob explain why they're willing to trust his special-teams experience, even with the Giants playing so many close games. Harbaugh also revealed that Giants players challenged the coaching staff about overly complicated game plans. Drew and Rob discuss why the coaches' willingness to listen could be one of the most encouraging developments of the season. They examine the improved execution against Houston, including the success of the power-running attack, key blocking contributions, Abdul Carter's defensive performance, and the offensive-line PFF grades. The Giants enter their bye week at 4-2-1 and in first place in the NFC East. With Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., Andrew Thomas and Jermaine Eluemunor dealing with injury concerns, getting healthy before Philadelphia and Washington becomes a major priority. Then it's time for the NFL Week 7 recap. The Cincinnati Bengals erased a 13-point halftime deficit and scored 35 unanswered points against the Baltimore Ravens. Drew and Rob debate whether Baltimore's collapse can be blamed on Lamar Jackson's absence or whether the Ravens have deeper problems. The Seattle Seahawks stunned Patrick Mahomes and the previously unbeaten Kansas City Chiefs, holding Kansas City to just three points. Was Seattle's defense that dominant, or did the Chiefs' offense simply fall apart? The Atlanta Falcons handed the San Francisco 49ers their first loss, while the Detroit Lions survived a controversial fourth-down decision and a dramatic finish against the Green Bay Packers. Drew and Rob also cover Pittsburgh's victory over New Orleans in Paris, Cleveland's comeback against Tennessee, Minnesota remaining undefeated, Miami's first win against the Jets, Tampa Bay's blowout of Carolina, Denver's explosive plays against Arizona, and the Rams' victory over Las Vegas. Throughout the recap, they revisit their weekly NFL picks, including straight-up winners, spreads, totals and trifectas. Drew finishes the completed Sunday games with a narrow 24-23 points advantage over Rob, with Cowboys–Eagles still unresolved during the show. Can the Giants build on their momentum after the bye, or will the kicking problems, injuries and tougher division opponents expose weaknesses that haven't been fixed yet? Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The Giants went into Houston as double-digit underdogs and pulled off a 27–21 overtime win. J.J. McCarthy gave New York a passing game again, Cam Skattebo answered his critics, and Devin Singletary delivered the walk-off touchdown. But two missed field goals and another late blown lead nearly wasted all of it. Follow us on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Did J.J. McCarthy prove he can keep the Giants winning without Jaxson Dart? McCarthy completed 20 of 28 passes for 252 yards without an interception in his first Giants start. He wasn't perfect, especially on the final regulation drive, but he handled Houston's pressure and opened up downfield opportunities for Malik Nabers and Malachi Fields. Cam Skattebo had his own statement to make. After barely seeing the field against New Orleans, he rushed for 124 yards and a touchdown, including the 42-yard overtime run that set up Singletary's 30-yard game-winner. Has Skattebo officially earned the lead-back job, or should Tyrone Tracy remain part of the conversation? Drew and Rob also give Deonte Banks his due after an impressive performance against Nico Collins. The Giants defense held C.J. Stroud to 153 passing yards and came through with the overtime stop, despite allowing Houston to tie the game late. And then there's the kicking situation. Two missed field goals nearly cost the Giants another winnable game. Is it time for John Harbaugh to bring in competition during the bye week? The Giants are now 4-2-1 and head into their bye leading the NFC East. Drew and Rob debate whether this team is finally learning how to win ugly, what McCarthy's performance means for the quarterback room, and how much credit Harbaugh deserves for the turnaround. Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

Dennard Wilson is putting Giants defenders on notice. Publicly calling out poor effort could finally bring the accountability New York needs, but will that fix the defense or expose even bigger coaching problems? Drew and Rob debate whether the players or coaches deserve more blame. Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Are the Giants' biggest problems caused by players or coaching?  Dennard Wilson's criticism puts the spotlight on defensive effort, but the running game, personnel rotation, and special-teams mistakes raise serious questions about coaching decisions as well. The Giants are still leading the NFC East at 3-2-1, but the Saints loss exposed problems across the roster. Drew and Rob react to Wilson calling out "traitors to the defense," discuss the 13 missed tackles against New Orleans, and question whether publicly challenging players will bring the changes Giants fans have been demanding. Matt Nagy says J.J. McCarthy is ready to operate the full offense against Houston, but the running back situation remains frustrating. How did Cam Skattebo finish the Saints game without a carry? The guys question Nagy's explanation, the four-man rotation, and whether a smaller group of backs can finally establish a rhythm. Chris Horton's explanation for the special-teams mistakes also gets plenty of criticism. NFC East news includes Evan Neal signing with the Eagles' practice squad, the serious medical situation involving Jalen Hurts, and what the Giants' division lead means heading into Week 7. Then it's NFL Week 7 predictions across the league. Drew and Rob make their picks for winners, spreads, totals, and potential upsets. Can the Bengals beat Baltimore if Lamar Jackson isn't fully healthy? Will the Browns keep finding ways to win despite their offensive struggles? Can the Colts recover against Minnesota? And can anyone actually trust the Dolphins or Jets? The unbeaten 49ers travel to Atlanta, where injuries and the Falcons' pass rush could create problems. The Panthers face the Buccaneers in an NFC South matchup, while Denver visits Arizona with serious questions surrounding both offenses. Packers vs. Lions delivers one of the week's biggest debates. Detroit's offense has been explosive, but its secondary has struggled, and both hosts like Green Bay to take advantage. The Rams also face a Raiders team that has been more competitive than expected. The Chiefs travel to Seattle for Sunday Night Football, with Kenneth Walker III facing his former team. Can Seattle's run defense shut down Kansas City's biggest rushing threat, or will Patrick Mahomes find another way to win? Finally, the Cowboys and Eagles face off on Monday Night Football. Both entered the week chasing the Giants in the NFC East, and Drew and Rob make their predictions while enjoying the unusual position of looking down at both division rivals. The episode closes with the biggest questions facing the NFL after six weeks, the undefeated teams under pressure, and whether J.J. McCarthy can help the Giants stay atop the division. Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

J.J. McCarthy gives the New York Giants a more mobile quarterback who could finally get their offense moving, but John Harbaugh is taking a serious risk by starting him against Houston with three offensive tackles dealing with injuries. Was McCarthy's huge fourth quarter against New Orleans enough to justify the move, or is he being thrown into a situation that's almost impossible to succeed in? Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Did the Giants make the right decision starting J.J. McCarthy against the Texans? McCarthy's mobility gives the offense options that were limited with Jameis Winston, but his turnover concerns, unfamiliarity with the system, and Houston's pass rush make this a difficult first start. Drew and Rob explain why they ultimately trust Harbaugh while still questioning whether the switch should have waited until after the bye. McCarthy threw for 243 yards in the fourth quarter against the Saints, but Houston presents a completely different challenge. Andrew Thomas, Jermaine Eluemunor, and Marcus Mbow all missed Wednesday's practice, prompting the Giants to add Josh Sills. With Will Anderson Jr. coming after McCarthy, can the offensive line give him any chance to settle in? And was Winston ever the right backup for an offense designed around Jaxson Dart? The Giants also released Najee Harris and Jihad Ward while promoting Trace Ford. Those moves led to a bigger argument about the running game. Drew makes a strong case that Tyrone Tracy Jr. deserves more carries, pointing to his production when given a consistent workload. Cam Skattebo has received considerably more opportunities, but neither the rotation nor the blocking has produced a reliable rushing attack. Should Tyrone Tracy be the Giants' lead running back instead of Cam Skattebo? Drew and Rob also weigh potential trade targets Jonathan Taylor and Quenton Nelson, including what New York could realistically afford to give up. Neither move is presented as an agreed or confirmed trade. The problems aren't limited to the offense. Shelby Harris and D.J. Reader's assessments of the Giants' run-defense struggles raise concerns about assignments and communication. Secondary injuries and special-teams mistakes add to the questions facing a team still leading the NFC East. Looking ahead to Houston, C.J. Stroud is playing better, Tank Dell is returning, and the Texans have won two straight games. Drew and Rob examine how McCarthy can attack Houston's defense, whether the Giants can slow Stroud, and what would qualify as an encouraging performance before the bye. Finally, it's Patriots vs. Bears on Thursday Night Football. Drake Maye and Caleb Williams have both impressed lately, and while Drew and Rob lean toward Chicago winning, they split on their against-the-spread picks. The Giants are in first place, have a new starting quarterback, and are running out of healthy offensive linemen. Sunday against Houston could tell us just how far this team has come—and how much work is still left. Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The New York Giants can stick with Jameis Winston's experience or turn to J.J. McCarthy's mobility and upside—but either decision comes with risks while New York holds first place in the NFC East. John Harbaugh has a major Week 7 quarterback decision against Houston, and the upcoming bye week only complicates the timing. Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Should the Giants start Jameis Winston or J.J. McCarthy against the Houston Texans?  Winston offers experience and familiarity with the offense, while McCarthy brings mobility and the potential to jump-start a struggling Giants attack. Neither option is without risk. Drew and Rob examine Harbaugh's refusal to name a starter following the Giants' 34-27 loss to New Orleans. McCarthy threw for 243 yards in the fourth quarter and nearly brought New York back, but how much of that production was a product of the Saints playing with a substantial lead? Winston's turnovers remain a concern, yet McCarthy has had limited time to learn the Giants offense. The discussion gets heated over whether Winston deserves another start with a short leash or whether it's time to hand McCarthy the job. The quarterback isn't the only offensive problem. Najee Harris has expressed frustration with the four-back rotation, while Harbaugh says nobody has earned the featured role. We examine the running game, Cam Skattebo's limited opportunities, Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary, and the problems along the offensive line. The Saints game film also reveals some encouraging individual performances. D.J. Reader earns praise for an 89.2 PFF defensive grade, J.C. Davis makes a promising first appearance, and Malik Nabers continues delivering with 12 receptions for 165 yards. But can those individual performances overcome the team's inconsistency? In Philadelphia, Jalen Hurts' serious medical diagnosis has created major uncertainty for the Eagles. Drew and Rob discuss his expected extended absence, the questions surrounding the medical timeline, and what the Eagles' struggles mean for the NFC East. Above everything else, the hope is for Hurts to make a full recovery. Can the Giants take advantage of a struggling NFC East, or will their own problems waste the opportunity? Houston presents the next major test. C.J. Stroud is coming off a 312-yard performance, Tank Dell is expected to return, and the Texans have won two straight. With Giants injuries mounting at cornerback and along the offensive line, the matchup could expose weaknesses on both sides of the ball. Then it's the full NFL Week 6 recap. Drew and Rob revisit Denver's overtime win over Seattle, Houston's narrow victory over Jacksonville, Cleveland's upset of Baltimore, Tennessee's first win against Indianapolis, Carolina's win in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh's overtime comeback against Tampa Bay, Arizona's unusual win over the Rams, Buffalo's victory over Las Vegas, and Green Bay shutting down Dallas. They also review their NFL picks, point spreads, over/unders and the still-unfinished Monday night matchup between Washington and San Francisco. The Giants remain atop the NFC East. The question is whether Harbaugh can make the right decisions to keep them there. Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

Starting J.J. McCarthy could give the New York Giants the explosive offense they've been missing, but benching Jameis Winston after just 11 minutes of relief work carries its own risk. McCarthy's remarkable fourth-quarter performance nearly rescued a 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints and left John Harbaugh facing one of his toughest quarterback decisions. Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Should J.J. McCarthy replace Jameis Winston as the Giants' starting quarterback? McCarthy threw for 243 yards in the fourth quarter and led the Giants to 17 unanswered points, but one impressive relief appearance doesn't automatically prove he's ready to start. Drew and Rob examine both sides of the decision and what Harbaugh needs to consider before the Giants face Houston. The quarterback debate isn't the only controversy following this loss. Cam Skattebo received ZERO touches against the Saints after his costly fumble against Washington. Skattebo acknowledged being punished, but Harbaugh maintained that his lack of carries wasn't intentional. The Giants' running backs managed only 34 yards on 14 carries, raising serious questions about the offensive line, running back rotation, and Matt Nagy's approach. Drew and Rob discuss why they support Harbaugh holding players accountable while still recognizing the damage an ineffective rushing attack does to the offense. Was benching Skattebo the right message, even if it may have cost the Giants offensively? The Giants also had a complete team collapse. Leading 10-0, New York surrendered 34 consecutive points before McCarthy sparked the late comeback. Charlie Jones' kickoff fumble, Winston's interceptions, a defense that allowed 175 rushing yards, and the inability to pressure Tyler Shough all played a role. Drew and Rob also debate the fourth-quarter clock management, the final incomplete pass to Isaiah Likely, and whether the Giants should have received a defensive pass interference call. There were reasons for optimism. Malik Nabers finished with 12 receptions for 165 yards, Isaiah Likely continued producing big plays, and Tyrone Tracy Jr. scored twice. But the Giants still couldn't finish the comeback. With New York sitting at 3-2-1 atop the NFC East, the discussion turns to John Harbaugh's impact on the team's mentality. These Giants refuse to quit, but is improved toughness enough when the same execution problems keep putting them behind? Plus, injury concerns heading into Houston and the growing pressure on the offensive coaching staff to find a more consistent identity. The Giants have fight. Now they need to stop requiring miracles just to stay in games. Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The New York Giants have a chance to strengthen their lead in the NFC East, but injuries to Abdul Carter and both starting offensive tackles could threaten their 3-1-1 momentum. Can John Harbaugh's team overcome those losses and keep winning, or are the Giants running out of healthy answers before the Saints arrive? Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Can the Giants beat the Saints despite their growing injury concerns? New York has home-field momentum and a defense capable of making life difficult for New Orleans, but missing key contributors could put additional pressure on Jameis Winston and the remaining roster. Drew and Rob begin with the latest Giants injury concerns, including Abdul Carter, Jermaine Eluemunor, Andrew Thomas, Colton Hood and Tyler Nubin. With Brian Burns already out for the season, the availability of Carter becomes especially important to New York's pass rush. Matt Nagy believes the Giants have identified ways to improve their running game, but are the actual problems the offensive line and the play calling rather than the running backs? The hosts also question why New York continues to use the J.J. McCarthy package while trying to win games with Winston. Cam Skattebo's ball-security problems lead to another debate after the running back explains why he removed his wet gloves against Washington. Former Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes also provides an explanation of Dominic Zvada's missed kicks, identifying differences in plant-foot positioning that could be affecting his accuracy. And then there's the Jaxson Dart trade proposal. Former NFL tackle Terron Armstead suggested a hypothetical deal sending Dart and two first-round picks for Justin Herbert. Drew and Rob have strong opinions about that idea, Herbert's record, and whether the Giants should even consider sacrificing that much for a veteran quarterback. Could Week 6 create an even bigger opening for the Giants in the NFC East? The conversation then moves across the NFL with 13 Week 6 game predictions, point spreads, totals and possible upsets. We start with Saints–Giants and the important question of whether Winston can beat his former team. From there, it's Texans–Jaguars in London, Bears–Falcons, Ravens–Browns, Titans–Colts, and the other early matchups. One of the biggest stories involves Philadelphia. Jalen Hurts has been ruled out against Carolina after doctors identified a superficial blood clot in his leg. With Tanner McKee taking over, the Eagles face an uncertain stretch that could affect the NFC East standings. The hosts discuss the potential implications for the Giants' upcoming meeting with Philadelphia, without a confirmed timetable for Hurts' return. The picks continue with Panthers–Eagles, Buccaneers–Steelers, Cardinals–Rams, Chargers–Chiefs and Bills–Raiders, with disagreements over favorites, injuries and which teams deserve more respect. Sunday Night Football brings another NFC East matchup as the Dallas Cowboys travel to Green Bay. Can Dallas keep pace with the Packers at Lambeau Field, or will Green Bay take advantage of the Cowboys' defensive problems? We close with Commanders–49ers on Monday Night Football and what the outcome could mean for the division. The Giants have put themselves in a position that few fans expected this early in the season. Now they need to prove that injuries, turnovers and an inconsistent running game won't stop them from building on that start. Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The Giants have a chance to improve to 4-1-1 against a struggling New Orleans Saints team, and Jameis Winston gets to face his former franchise. But injuries to New York's offensive line and pass rush, combined with ongoing ball-security concerns, could turn an expected Giants victory into another frustrating Sunday. Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Can Jameis Winston lead the New York Giants past his former team in Week 6? The Giants have favorable matchups against New Orleans' struggling defense, but protecting Winston, avoiding turnovers, and limiting Tyler Shough will be essential to securing a victory. Drew previews the New York Giants vs New Orleans Saints matchup with New York sitting at 3-1-1 and leading the NFC East, while New Orleans enters at 1-4. Despite that difference, the Saints are favored on the road. Can the Giants finally get their running game going? New Orleans is allowing 148.8 rushing yards and 30.2 points per game. That creates an opportunity for Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., and the Giants offense to establish the run and open up the passing game. But Skattebo's fumbling problems remain a concern, especially after the costly overtime turnover against Washington. Jameis Winston's return against New Orleans adds another dimension to the game. Drew discusses Winston's previous years with the Saints, his leadership in New York, his developing chemistry with Malik Nabers and Isaiah Likely, and whether facing his former teammates could provide additional motivation. Will injuries keep the Giants from taking advantage? Andrew Thomas and Jermaine Eluemunor both missed Wednesday's practice, creating questions about the matchup against Chase Young and Carl Granderson. Abdul Carter's calf injury adds further uncertainty to a Giants pass rush already missing Brian Burns. Drew examines whether Dennard Wilson's aggressive defense can exploit Tyler Shough's struggles against pressure, how Chris Olave and Alvin Kamara could threaten New York, and why the Giants cannot afford to underestimate an opponent with a poor record. The episode also covers the latest New York Giants news, including the offensive line's rise to No. 17 in PFF's rankings, Bryan Hudson's play at center, and the addition of Josh Gesky to the practice squad. Drew examines whether the Giants deserve more respect in the NFC East race and why the betting markets still favor Philadelphia and Dallas to win the division. John Harbaugh's defense of Kayvon Thibodeaux, Dominic Zvada's kicking mechanics, Cam Skattebo's ball-security issues, and the J.J. McCarthy quarterback package are also discussed. The episode finishes with the biggest keys to Giants-Saints, the important matchups that could decide the outcome, and a quick Seattle Seahawks vs Denver Broncos Thursday Night Football prediction. Are the Giants legitimate NFC East contenders, or are their close-game escapes hiding problems that could finally catch up to them? Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The New York Giants signed Dawuane Smoot to the practice squad after also working out Yannick Ngakoue and Julian Okwara. They gain veteran defensive-line depth, but with Brian Burns out for the season and Smoot's recent run-defense grades raising concerns, did they actually get the help they need? Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. THE BIG QUESTION Should the Giants sign Yannick Ngakoue after adding Dawuane Smoot? Smoot provides experienced rotational depth, but Ngakoue offers a different pass-rushing profile, and the Giants must decide whether another veteran is worth adding. Drew and Rob examine all three defensive-line workout candidates, Smoot's career production and disappointing recent PFF evaluations, and whether Yannick's previous experience playing for John Harbaugh makes him an attractive option. They also debate the possibility of trading Kayvon Thibodeaux while the Giants are competing for the NFC East lead. Would moving Thibodeaux now mean selling low on a former first-round pick, especially with Burns already sidelined? The Giants' coaching adjustments receive plenty of attention as well. John Harbaugh discusses the latest injuries to Jermaine Eluemunor, Tyler Nubin, Colton Hood and Andrew Thomas. Bryan Hudson remains the starting center over John Michael Schmitz, and the offensive line faces questions about its ability to run the ball. On offense, the Giants finally found success using a faster tempo with Jameis Winston against Washington. Drew and Rob discuss why it worked, Winston's 254 passing yards after halftime and whether Matt Nagy should make no-huddle a regular part of the offense. Defensively, Dennard Wilson has dramatically increased the blitz rate, but can New York sustain that approach against stronger opponents? Then comes Dan Quinn's explanation of Washington's disastrous overtime finish. The Commanders had a chance to win with a field goal but allowed the clock to expire. Drew and Rob examine the substitutions, communication problems and coaching responsibility behind the 27-27 tie. The Giants remain 3-1-1 and in first place in the NFC East. Should fans be encouraged by the comeback or frustrated by another missed opportunity to win? NFL WEEK 5 RECAP The second half of the episode moves around the league, starting with Tampa Bay's victory over Dallas and Jacksonville's remarkable finish against Philadelphia in London. The Jaguars' last-second field goal leaves the Eagles with another loss and gives Giants fans plenty to enjoy. Drew and Rob also cover the undefeated Vikings, the Patriots' dominant performance against the Raiders, the Jets' defensive win over Cleveland, Green Bay's victory over Chicago, and Pittsburgh's big offensive day behind Jaylen Warren. The Texans' trade for Marvin Harrison Jr. sparks a discussion about reuniting him with C.J. Stroud and whether Houston can revive his production. The late games deliver more drama: Denver beats the Chargers after a controversial fourth-down decision, Jahmyr Gibbs powers Detroit's explosive offense, San Francisco stays undefeated with a narrow win over Seattle, and Baltimore rallies to beat Atlanta in overtime. Throughout the NFL recap, Drew and Rob revisit their Week 5 winners, point spreads, totals and Trifecta picks, including a disagreement over how one of their picks was recorded. The Giants are still leading the division, but do they have enough depth and consistency to stay there? Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show

The New York Giants erased a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit against Washington, only to finish with a frustrating 27-27 overtime tie. Three missed field goals and a costly Cam Skattebo fumble turned a remarkable comeback into a missed opportunity to strengthen New York's NFC East lead. Follow on Spotify and leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts if you enjoy no-BS Giants debate. Did the Giants prove they're legitimate NFC East contenders, or did they throw away a game they should have won? Drew and Rob react to one of the strangest Giants games of the season. Down 14 points in the fourth quarter, Jameis Winston led two crucial touchdown drives to force overtime. Isaiah Likely delivered a massive performance with 11 receptions, 94 yards, and two touchdowns, while Malik Nabers added 121 receiving yards and a touchdown. But the comeback only tells half the story. Dominic Zvada missed three field goals, including a critical 46-yard opportunity in overtime. Drew and Rob debate how much blame belongs on the rookie kicker, especially given the rainy and windy conditions. Then Cam Skattebo lost a fumble as the Giants were moving the football in overtime, ending another potential opportunity to win. The offensive coaching decisions also come under fire. Why did the Giants keep inserting J.J. McCarthy into special packages while Winston was finding his rhythm? Did those substitutions create any real advantage, or were they disrupting an offense that finally started moving the ball? The guys break down the struggling rushing attack, offensive-line problems, and how the passing game eventually helped create running opportunities. On defense, Jayden Daniels gave the Giants major problems with his mobility, rushing for 103 yards and two touchdowns. Drew and Rob examine the lack of containment, the missed opportunities to keep Daniels in the pocket, and the defensive plays that helped New York fight back. Injuries, special teams, coaching adjustments, and Washington's own overtime clock-management disaster all factor into a game neither team managed to win. Is the comeback something to celebrate, or do the mistakes outweigh everything the Giants accomplished? New York moves to 3-1-1 and remains in first place in the NFC East. With Dallas and Philadelphia both losing in Week 5, the Giants still gained ground in the division race, but they missed a chance to create even more separation. Drew and Rob also recap the biggest games and surprises from around the NFL in Week 5, including the Eagles' struggles, the Patriots' impressive offensive performance, and other results shaping the conference standings. This was a game that gave Giants fans almost every possible emotion. An ugly start, an incredible comeback, costly mistakes, and a 27-27 finish that leaves everyone wondering what could have been. Would you rather celebrate the comeback or focus on the win that slipped away? Merch: https://2giantgoofballs-shop.fourthwall.com/ Support: https://buymeacoffee.com/2giantgoofballs All episodes: https://2giantgoofballs.buzzsprout.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show