The Giants’ Season in Freefall: Charting a Path Forward | The Sporting Base
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The Giants’ Season in Freefall: Charting a Path Forward

December 13, 2024

The Giants’ Season in Freefall: Charting a Path Forward

The New York Giants’ 2025 NFL season has spiraled into a nightmare. Sitting at 2-11 with an eight-game losing streak, the team seems mired in chaos both on and off the field. Fans have had enough, even going so far as to express their discontent via banners flying above MetLife Stadium.

Loss No. 11, a disheartening 14-11 defeat against the Saints sealed by a blocked field goal attempt, epitomized the struggles.

The questions loom larger than the on-field disasters. How does the franchise pull itself out of this mess, and what steps should be taken to ensure this nightmare doesn’t extend beyond this season?


The Giants’ Struggles This Season

The Giants’ locker room is filled with frustration, exhaustion, and disbelief. After the Saints’ game ended with a blocked field goal, Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger expressed what everyone was feeling, calling it “a brutal feeling.” Similar sentiments echo throughout the organization, from players to fans sitting in the seats at MetLife Stadium.

The statistical reality is grim. At 2-11, the Giants rank among the bottom teams in nearly every relevant metric. A lackluster offense, inconsistent defense, and questionable coaching decisions have compounded the Giant’s woes week after week. According to Football Outsiders’ advanced metrics, the Giants’ offense has recorded one of the lowest DVOA figures in the league this season—a clear indicator of inefficiency.

Players, too, have been affected by the toll that the consistent losing streak has taken. Even veteran wide receiver Darius Slayton—one of the team’s longest-tenured players—voiced his dissatisfaction, saying, “It’s exhausting to go through so much losing.” The weight of loss after loss affects not just the experienced players but also the young talent on whom the franchise is relying for the future – and who might not yet have the maturity to cope with adversity.


The Bigger Picture and “Next Year” Focus

Despite the current freefall, players and coaches are emphasizing a wider perspective. Outside linebacker Brian Burns pointed toward the need to evaluate “the bigger picture” and for younger players to evolve to cope.

Said Burns, “These young guys…need to evolve, not just for themselves but also for the future.”

A key part of rebuilding lies in fostering player development. This isn’t just about talent; it’s about instilling resilience after a season as tough as this one. A losing culture can quickly take root, and the Giants must act decisively to prevent a sense of futility from setting in.

The “bigger picture” mentioned by Burns involves the draft and roster reconstruction. The New York Giants odds to land the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft are promising. Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito, while valiant in their efforts, are not long-term solutions. Scouts are already heavily evaluating QB prospects Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, both of whom fit the bill for a franchise signal-caller.


The Fans’ Message to Ownership

There’s no mistaking the level of frustration boiling over among the Giants’ faithful. Before the Saints game, a banner flew over MetLife Stadium reading, “MR. MARA ENOUGH — PLZ FIX THIS DUMPSTER FIRE.” It wasn’t a demand to sell the team or fire everyone in the front office. Instead, it was a passionate plea for ownership to address what has become an untenable situation.

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John Mara has faced harsh criticism before, from emails and fan letters to social media outrage. But public displays like this banner carry a particular sting. Losing trust from such a loyal fanbase—one that has endured moments of mediocrity and fleeting success—serves as the alarm bell that no ownership group can afford to ignore.

Will Mara and company make the bold moves necessary to respond to this growing outcry? General Manager Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll, while given plenty of latitude initially, are now under a spotlight. Daboll admitted this week that he has never endured such a long losing streak.


Defining the Offseason Priorities

The next eight months will shape the Giants’ future. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps they must take to regain control:

1. Address the Quarterback Position

At this point, drafting a quarterback is non-negotiable. Whether it’s Cam Ward or Shedeur Sanders, the Giants need a big-ticket rookie quarterback who can lead the offense and reinvigorate fan enthusiasm.

This search should include bringing in experienced consultants and continuously evaluating prospects beyond the initial write-ups. Simply drafting a QB isn’t enough; the right system and coaching must be in place to ensure their development.

2. Rebuild the Offensive Line

The offensive line has been one of the team’s weakest links for years. Free agency and the draft must focus on acquiring reliable players who can provide protection and stability for the new QB. Fans won’t accept another NFL season in which their signal-caller is running for his life on every down.

Investing here has a domino effect. A better line improves not only the quarterback’s play but also the ground game and the overall consistency of the offense.

3. Double Down on Coaching Accountability

Brian Daboll and his staff remain at a crossroads. While one could argue that Daboll hasn’t inherited a perfect situation, his questionable calls, as well as missed opportunities during games have fueled skepticism. The offseason must include a review of the team culture, preparatory processes, and play-calling strategy.

If Daboll doesn’t appear to be the answer, making an informed decision on his replacement before the 2025 season is essential.

4. Reengage With The Fanbase

The Giants’ loyal fans want to feel connected to the team again. Ownership and the front office should consider hosting town halls, fan forums, and Q&A sessions to maintain transparency and rebuild trust. Marketing campaigns should highlight future stars, upcoming improvements, and the legacy of the franchise and fan’s sense of pride.


Where Do the Giants Go From Here?

The path forward is not easy, but it isn’t impossible. The Giants’ downturn isn’t just a byproduct of poor performance on the field; it’s a culmination of unresolved issues that have festered for seasons. To move forward, the organization must take an honest look at itself and commit to measurable improvements.

The fans, the same ones flying planes and hoisting banners—deserve a team that reflects their passion for the sport. This isn’t an ordinary franchise; it’s home to four Super Bowl titles, countless football legends, and a history that demands respect.

The road to redemption starts now. The question is, will the New York Giants rise to the occasion or allow their recent struggles to define their future?

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