John Harbaugh Evaluates Giants Quarterback Options Following Home Loss to Saints

Coach John Harbaugh is weighing his options at quarterback after J.J. McCarthy threw for 243 yards in relief during the Giants' 34-27 defeat against New Orleans.

The New Orleans Saints defeated the New York Giants 34-27 on Sunday at East Rutherford, leaving Giants coach John Harbaugh undecided on his starting quarterback for a Week 7 matchup against the Houston Texans. Jameis Winston, who started the game, completed 14 of 26 passes for 152 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. He was replaced in the fourth quarter by J.J. McCarthy after the Giants fell behind 34-10 with less than 12 minutes remaining.

McCarthy finished the game 11-of-21 for 243 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception. According to ESPN Research, his 243 yards represent the second-most passing yards in a fourth quarter by a non-starting quarterback in the last 25 seasons. McCarthy also led the team in rushing with 26 yards on the ground. Despite leading three scoring drives, his final fourth-down pass intended for Isaiah Likely sailed high in the end zone with under 20 seconds left to play.

The Giants' backfield also faced significant changes as Cam Skattebo, who entered the game with 294 rushing yards on the season, recorded zero carries across six snaps. Harbaugh attributed the distribution of playing time to a lack of production, as four active backs combined for just 34 yards on 14 carries. Tyrone Tracy Jr. scored both a rushing and receiving touchdown, finishing with 18 yards on six attempts. Najee Harris started the contest but managed only 2 yards on four carries, while Devin Singletary added 14 yards on four rushes.