East Rutherfoed, NJ—-The New Orleans Saints secured a narrow 14-11 victory over the New York Giants on Sunday, thanks in part to a critical play by defensive tackle Bryan Bresee. However, quarterback Derek Carr’s late-game injury may have put a damper on the Saints’ already slim hopes of competing for the NFC South title.
The win kept the Saints (5-8) in the postseason conversation, while the Giants (2-11) suffered their eighth consecutive loss, extending their dismal season. New York’s playoff aspirations were extinguished weeks ago, and the team now stands one loss shy of matching its franchise record for consecutive defeats.
Carr’s Injury Raises Concerns
Carr was the biggest question mark for New Orleans following the game. Late in the fourth quarter, he injured his left, non-throwing hand while diving for a first down near the Saints’ 40-yard line. After hitting the turf hard, Carr was replaced by backup quarterback Jake Haener. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi confirmed Carr would undergo tests but could not say whether he would enter concussion protocol or be available for next week’s game.
“He’s just trying to win,” said tight end Juwan Johnson, who caught an 11-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter. “In a game like that, a first down or two can put it away, and he tried to make it happen for us.”
Bresee Saves the Day
With just 11 seconds remaining, Bresee delivered the game-saving moment by blocking a 35-yard field goal attempt from Giants kicker Graham Gano that would have tied the game. The Giants had driven deep into Saints territory, with quarterback Drew Lock making crucial plays, including a 25-yard scramble on fourth down and a 23-yard completion to Malik Nabers. However, Bresee’s outstretched hand sealed the Saints’ victory.
“I didn’t think I got enough of it at first,” Bresee admitted. “But when I saw it miss, I was super excited.”
Gano, who had earlier converted a 43-yard field goal and had another nullified due to a penalty, expressed frustration. “It’s tough to end the game that way after so much effort from everyone,” he said.
Saints Still in the Hunt
Despite the victory, New Orleans remains two games behind division leader Tampa Bay (7-6) and one game behind Atlanta in the NFC South standings with four games left.
“It keeps us in the mix,” said Rizzi, who has led the team to three wins in four games since taking over for Dennis Allen. “When you’re playing meaningful games in December, it’s a big deal.”
Carr finished the game completing 20 of 31 passes for 219 yards. His status will be a critical factor for the Saints as they prepare to host Washington next week.
Giants Hit Rock Bottom
The Giants’ woes continued, particularly at home, where they fell to 0-7 this season. A late touchdown by Tyrone Tracy and a two-point conversion from Lock to Nabers gave New York a chance, but it wasn’t enough to stop the downward spiral.
Fan discontent was evident before kickoff, with a plane flying over MetLife Stadium carrying a banner labeling the Giants a “dumpster fire” and calling for co-owner John Mara to overhaul the team.
Head coach Brian Daboll, now under increased scrutiny alongside general manager Joe Schoen, declined to address the protest. “I’m disappointed we have two wins,” Daboll said postgame.
Next Up:
The Saints will host Washington next Sunday as they look to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Giants, meanwhile, will welcome Baltimore, hoping to salvage something from a season that has quickly unraveled.
