The New York Giants fell 24-21 to the Washington Commanders at home on Thursday, and a failed quarterback sneak late in the fourth quarter has drawn scrutiny after video analysis showed running back Cam Skattebo did not move for nearly two seconds after the snap on the critical play.
With the Giants leading 17-14 and less than four minutes remaining, New York faced third-and-1 at its own 11-yard line. Backup quarterback Jameis Winston attempted a “Tush Push,” the now-common quarterback sneak in which teammates push the ball carrier forward for extra yardage. The play depends on that push arriving almost instantly after the snap.
Instead, Skattebo stayed in his three-point stance while Winston pushed forward alone. Former Philadelphia Eagles staffer Ryan Paganetti posted video analysis on social media showing Skattebo remained frozen for 1.8 seconds after the snap and did not reach the pile until roughly 2.8 seconds had elapsed — by which point Washington’s defense had already stopped Winston’s initial push.
“The Giants fell just short and ultimately punted while protecting a four point lead. On a play decided by inches, this delay could have been the difference between keeping the ball and giving Washington another chance. It may have cost the Giants the game,” Paganetti wrote.
Officials initially ruled that Winston had gained the needed yard, but the call was overturned on review. The Giants punted, protecting their slim lead.
New York intercepted Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels on the ensuing possession, but a three-and-out on the Giants’ next drive gave Washington the ball back. The Commanders then drove for the game-winning score, handing New York its loss and dropping head coach John Harbaugh’s team to 5-3-1.
Harbaugh, who faced criticism for conservative play-calling throughout the game, said after the loss he had not noticed Skattebo’s delay in real time.
“I’d have to see the tape, I’m not sure about that,” Harbaugh said. “I don’t have a comment really until I see it on tape.”
Skattebo, who scored two rushing touchdowns despite vomiting during the game, was not asked about the specific play after the game. He offered a general assessment of the team’s late-game execution.
“We fell short on a couple third downs,” Skattebo said. “We had opportunities at the end of the game to close it out and we didn’t. It’s simple as that. We got to execute better.”
