Cam Skattebo did plenty Thursday night to help the Giants put themselves in position to beat Washington, but one late snap turned into the kind of mistake that lingers.
The rookie was a major part of New York’s offense in the 21-17 game, finishing with 78 rushing yards, 44 receiving yards and two touchdowns on “Thursday Night Football.” His power was evident all night as the Giants built a 21-17 lead in the second half.
Then came the critical moment with four minutes left in the fourth quarter. On a quarterback sneak, Skattebo failed to immediately join the push behind Jameis Winston, staying in his stance for nearly two seconds before moving to help. The Giants came up short on the first down attempt.
That sequence drew sharp attention afterward. “That’s how long Cam Skattebo stayed in his stance after the snap on this critical 3rd & 1,” former Eagles coach Ryan Paganetti said.
“He didn’t reach the pile until about 2.8 seconds had elapsed. By then, Winston’s initial push had already been stopped.
The Giants fell just short and ultimately punted while protecting a four point lead. On a play decided by inches, this delay could have been the difference between keeping the ball and giving Washington another chance.
It may have cost the Giants the game.”
Skattebo didn’t try to soften the blow when he spoke after the loss. “We had opportunities at the end of the game to close it out - and we didn’t,” Skattebo said, via NJ.com. “We’ve just got to execute better.”
The Giants now turn to next weekend’s matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
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