Daniel Jones, after just one start, is already a New York Giants legend. For now, it almost doesn't matter whether or not the rookie is able to sustain his level of play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers going forward – that's how excited Jones has Giants fans after leading his team to a dramatic 32-31 victory on Sunday in his first career start. This statistic, though, certainly makes it seem likely he'll be much more than just a one-week flash in the pan.
As noted by Establish The Run's Pat Thorman, Jones was absolutely dominant when under pressure in Week 3, completing 80 percent of his throws for 233 yards, two scores, and a pristine 158.3 passer rating.
#Giants Daniel Jones was under pressure on 47% of his dropbacks (3rd highest of Week 3).
He competed 80% of pressured attempts for 233 yards, 2 TDs, and a perfect 158.3 passer rating.
— Pat Thorman (@Pat_Thorman) September 23, 2019
Jones went 23-of-36 for 336 yards and two touchdowns against the Buccaneers despite being sacked five times and hit on 13 total occasions. New York proved helpless to contain veteran linebacker Shaquill Barrett, who accounted for four sacks and five quarterback hits all by himself. Jones stayed poised in the pocket regardless, routinely stepping up to avoid pressure before delivering accurate throws and showing off his underrated speed and overall athleticism when breaking the pocket. He had four rushes for 28 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winning score after leading the Giants on a 75-yard drive with the game on the line.
Jones was named New York's starter ahead of Eli Manning early last week. The No. 6 overall pick of the 2019 NFL Draft, the Giants were broadly criticized and even left at for selecting the Duke product ahead of many other players with a higher consensus grade.
None of that matters now, though, as Jones has become the overnight star New York so desperately needed.
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