The New York Giants needed a Week 8 win to avoid yet another 2-6 start, a record they’ve posted in seven of the last eight seasons. However, they fell short against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday night, losing 26-18. This marks quarterback Daniel Jones’ 1-15 record in primetime games.
In the first half, the Giants and Steelers traded field goals, ending the half tied at 9-9. The Steelers, maintaining their streak of not allowing any third-quarter points, outscored the Giants 7-0 in the third and built up a 23-9 lead entering the fourth quarter.
The Giants rallied with a 45-yard touchdown run by rookie running back Tyrone Tracy Jr., cutting the lead to eight. However, a puzzling two-point conversion attempt drained any momentum the touchdown had sparked.
The Giants had two late chances to tie the game. The first opportunity came when linebacker Micah McFadden forced a fumble on Russell Wilson, which Bobby Okereke recovered at the Steelers’ 37-yard line with just over four minutes remaining. But the drive stalled when TJ Watt stripped the ball from Jones on the 19-yard line.
After the Giants’ defense forced a punt, the offense had one last chance. Starting from their own 7-yard line, Jones led the team to the Steelers’ 35, but an overthrow intended for Devin Singletary led to an interception, sealing the game for Pittsburgh.
The Giants’ defense gave the offense multiple opportunities, totaling four sacks and eight hits on Wilson, with Azeez Ojulari contributing two sacks, bringing his season total to six.
The Giants will look for their first home win of the season when they host the Washington Commanders on Sunday.
