J.J. McCarthy to Start for Giants Against Texans
Quarterback earns first start after leading comeback attempt against Saints.
J.J. McCarthy will start at quarterback for the New York Giants on Sunday against the Houston Texans. McCarthy, acquired by the Giants on September 28, earned another opportunity after orchestrating a near comeback in the team's Week 6 loss to the New Orleans Saints. He threw for 243 yards in the fourth quarter, an NFL record for the most yards within an 11-minute span, though the Giants ultimately fell 34-27.
The Giants, who currently lead the NFC East with a 3-2-1 record, are 10.5-point underdogs against the Texans.
McCarthy's performance against the Saints has put him ahead of Jameis Winston for the starting role. While noted for occasional recklessness, McCarthy brings perceived upside to the Giants' passing game, complemented by his scrambling ability, which could help sustain drives. He and wide receiver Malik Nabers connected for 95 yards in their limited time together against New Orleans. Nabers has been a primary target recently, commanding 35 targets over the last two games for 23 receptions, 286 yards, and a touchdown.
The Texans' offense has shown improvement, particularly through the air, with C.J. Stroud earning AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors for his performance against Jacksonville. Stroud threw for 312 yards and three touchdowns in that game. Houston's receiving corps includes emerging threat Jaylin Noel, the returned Tank Dell, and newly acquired Marvin Harrison Jr., in addition to star Nico Collins. The team will likely rely heavily on Stroud due to the absence of running back David Montgomery.
Defensively, the Texans have a strong pass rush, with Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter combining for 14 sacks and 60 pressures, which will challenge the Giants' offensive line. Houston's defense also ranks third in the NFL in sacks with 18 and is third in rushing yards allowed per game (83.0). However, the Texans have surrendered 24 passing plays of at least 20 yards, the second-most in the league, which could be an area the Giants look to exploit.
The Giants' pass defense has been a surprising strength, limiting opposing quarterbacks to low yardage totals. Despite the Texans' defensive strengths, the betting market remains cautious on McCarthy, likely factoring in his previous season with the Vikings. The betting line reflects this, with the Giants as significant underdogs.