Harbaugh Credits Players, Divine Intervention for Giants' Overtime Victory
Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy and running back Cam Skattebo were instrumental in the Giants' win over the Houston Texans.
New York Giants coach John Harbaugh attributed his team's overtime victory against the Houston Texans to his players, specifically quarterback J.J. McCarthy and running back Cam Skattebo, and his faith.
"First of all, I just want to humbly say, just personally, very grateful to my Lord, High Rock, Protector and Stronghold, the Lord God in heaven," Harbaugh said in his postgame news conference. "And our guys, man, that was a player's win."
Skattebo was a standout performer, rushing for a career-high 124 yards. His powerful running included a significant overtime carry that set up the winning score. On one play, Skattebo was flagged for unnecessary roughness after lowering his head to drive through a defender, a move Harbaugh noted drew a penalty that might have been unexpected by football's all-time greats.
McCarthy, making his first start as the Giants' designated quarterback after being traded to the team 27 days prior, completed 20 of 28 passes for 252 yards. While he did not throw a touchdown pass, he avoided interceptions and fumbles. Harbaugh acknowledged McCarthy's performance, stating, "I thought he did a great job. He sure didn't play perfect but he played a heck of a football game. He deserves a lot of credit."
McCarthy was officially named the starter on Wednesday, stepping in after Jameis Winston, who had taken over following an injury to Jaxson Dart. Dart's season ended earlier due to a torn MCL and meniscus requiring surgery.
Harbaugh, who had benched Skattebo the previous week, praised the running back's performance on Sunday as embodying "fierce joy." The coach sees the young players' ability to respond to challenges, including his own decisions, as indicative of their character.
The Giants, currently holding a winning record in the NFC East, are poised to remain competitive despite the loss of Dart, bolstered by the developing synergy between McCarthy and Skattebo.
"We're going to be in it until the end now," Harbaugh stated.
