There was no draft pick that received more backlash in recent history than when the New York Giants selected Daniel Jones with the sixth overall pick. He became the starter in Week 3 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and had a near flawless debut. There was hope in New York once again thanks to Jones' performance and a missed field goal.
Jones did not have a great game against the Washington Redskins, as he threw two interceptions. He was not asked to do much in a convincing 24-3 win. The football world will get a fair judgement of Jones in these next two weeks beginning with the Minnesota Vikings.
Here are three predictions for the Giants' rookie in this week's game.
3. Jones Gets Hit Hard
The Vikings are tied for 10th in the league with 11 sacks. The Giants offensive line is improved, but still not the perfect product. Minnesota knows that putting pressure on a rookie quarterback usually means good things for the defense. Jones could get sacked five or six times in this game.
There has been a lot of talk surrounding the Vikings after their loss in Chicago. They need a big performance from both sides of the ball and the defense can do their job by dominating the line of scrimmage.
2. Giants Suffer First Loss Under Rookie
This is not exactly a bold prediction, actually to some Giants' fans it might be. The Vikings are favored in this game and come in with the better team. The game is at MetLife Stadium, which is usually an advantage, but the Vikings should come out on top no matter where this game is played.
Even at 2-2, this year is not about winning for the Giants. They are more concerned with developing their young quarterback and building around him for the future. Even though they will not win the game, this will be a moral victory if Jones performs well.
1. New York Second Guessing?
That is a big if on Jones performing well. The Vikings should come up with a plan to make the rookie uncomfortable from his first possession. Jones threw two picks against a bad Redskins' defense. If Jones comes out and throws multiple interceptions again, fans could start to think that maybe their initial reactions were right.
After the Bucs' win, Jones was anointed as the next Eli Manning. New York fans are known for two things. First, they are extremely loyal. Second, if you don't perform well, they are quick to jump ship. And no, three games is not too soon.
After the Vikings, the Giants will face the New England Patriots. Jones has two options. He will either learn from these games and grow or he will get exposed quickly.
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