Following a rocky 0-2 start, the New York Giants are looking to get their season back on track as they head into their Week 3 matchup against the Cleveland Browns. Both head coach Brian Daboll and quarterback Daniel Jones took to the podium this week to discuss the team’s early struggles and their plans to turn things around.
Daniel Jones Focuses on Improvement
After an uneven start to the season, Daniel Jones acknowledged that there were areas of improvement from Week 1 to Week 2, but he also noted that the team still has work to do.
“I thought I improved on some things, overall,” Jones said on Wednesday. “There are still things I need to clean up, but I thought there was improvement overall.”
One of the key pieces to the Giants’ offense has been wide receiver Malik Nabers, who, despite some mistakes, has shown flashes of being a game-changer. Jones praised Nabers’ ability to win matchups in one-on-one situations, which has opened up the offense.
“He’s done a really good job,” Jones said. “In matchup situations where he’s one-on-one, he’s won and made explosive plays for us time and time again.”
However, with defenses starting to take notice of Nabers’ impact, Jones noted that adjustments will need to be made.
“We have to be ready for that and understand that when you have a player like that, defenses are going to adjust,” he added.
When asked about how the team is handling the pressure of starting 0-2, Jones remained optimistic.
“There’s a great energy in the building still,” Jones said. “We know the record, but it’s a long season, and we’ve got a good football team.”
Looking ahead to the Cleveland Browns, Jones spoke highly of their defense, particularly the pass-rushing prowess of defensive end Myles Garrett. Jones acknowledged the challenge Garrett poses but expressed confidence in the Giants’ offensive line, specifically tackle Andrew Thomas.
“Luckily, we’ve got AT. AT is an incredible player, and we’re very confident in that matchup,” Jones stated.
Daboll Stresses Consistency and Resilience
Head coach Brian Daboll echoed Jones’ sentiment of keeping things in perspective as the Giants try to break into the win column. When asked about how the team is approaching the 0-2 start, Daboll emphasized consistency over desperation.
“I want to see consistency like we talk about every week,” Daboll said. “Each week is its own week, and we’ll just focus on the Browns this week.”
One of the bright spots for the Giants has been the development of their defense under new defensive coordinator Shane Bowen. While Daboll noted there were areas to improve, he praised the defense for its red zone performance in Week 2.
“There were some things we’ve got to correct and fix, and that’s what Shane will do,” Daboll said. “But good in the red zone last week.”
Daboll also touched on the decision to sign kicker Greg Joseph, who brings experience and a proven leg to the special teams unit.
“Thought he was the best option for us,” Daboll said. “He had a good kick last time we played against him, a 61-yarder.”
Looking Ahead to Cleveland
With a tough road game against the Browns looming, both Daboll and Jones acknowledged the challenges Cleveland’s defense presents. Daboll specifically pointed to Garrett and cornerback Denzel Ward as players the Giants will need to scheme around. He also praised Cleveland’s defensive coordinator, Jim Schwartz, for his ability to mix coverages and generate pressure.
“They can get after the passer. Penetrating front. They play a lot of man-to-man, and they mix in their zones. They do a great job of disguising,” Daboll said. “Coach Schwartz does a great job, and then they’ve got good players.”
Despite the early-season adversity, the Giants are focused on maintaining their approach and preparing thoroughly for the Browns. Daboll made it clear that the team isn’t panicking.
“You don’t want to ride a roller coaster,” Daboll said. “You just try to be as truthful and honest as you can when you go through, whether it’s a win or whether it’s a loss, but consistency is important too.”
With Week 3 rapidly approaching, the Giants will look to avoid an 0-3 start and prove that they have the resilience and talent to compete in a tough NFC East. The game against Cleveland will be a critical test for both Jones and Daboll as they seek to right the ship and get back into the win column.
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