PFF grades and advanced stats from the Giants’ loss to the Commanders

Key Points:

• The New York Giants lost a winnable game against the Washington Commanders, with critical mistakes including a poor punt by Jordan Stout and a missed field goal by Dominic Zvada contributing to the defeat, alongside conservative coaching decisions by John Harbaugh.
• Offensively, no Giants player earned an elite Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade, though QB J.J. McCarthy performed well overall, especially on the ground, despite an interception on a pressured deep throw; the offensive line showed solid pass protection with some variability in run blocking.
• Defensively, Ar’Darius Washington stood out with an excellent coverage grade and key plays late in the game, while much of the secondary and defensive line underperformed, including missed tackles and giving up crucial receptions and touchdowns.
• Advanced statistics place the Giants’ defense as middle-of-the-pack in points allowed but below average in sacks, takeaways, and tackles for loss, with a notably weak red zone defense compared to their upcoming opponent, the Jacksonville Jaguars.
• The Giants’ conservative play calling, especially on fourth downs, is reflected in one of the league’s lowest rates of going for it when it would increase win probability, contributing to a high three-and-out rate and questioning offensive aggressiveness despite McCarthy’s willingness to attempt deep throws.