Brian Daboll makes stance clear on benching Daniel Jones after Giants disaster

Brian Daboll has made his position clear on Daniel Jones ’ role in the New York Giants team after a miserable season opener.

The Giants endured a nightmare start to the new NFL season as they were comprehensively beaten by the Minnesota Vikings 28-6 on Sunday. It was a woeful start for Daboll’s side and questions were asked of his quarterback Jones’ ability to start following a frustrating return to the side.

Jones suffered an ACL tear following an underwhelming start to last season but the Giants have backed the 27-year-old to remain their starter for the new season. However, the decision has been scrutinised following the opening week defeat as Jones threw two interceptions and failed to lead the Giants to a touchdown against the Vikings.

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The former Duke star ended 22-of-42 passing the ball and ran six times for 15 yards as the Giants offensive was put under the microscope. In his post-match press conference, Daboll was inevitably asked about a possible quarterback change after only one game of the season, but it appears that isn’t something he’s willing to consider yet.

“We’re gonna watch everything. That’s not in my mind,” Daboll sternly replied. He continued to burden the blame for the defeat as he added: “I’m going to go back, watch the tape, and see what we can do better. Obviously, there’s a lot. Starts with me.”

Jones reflected on his and the team’s performance in a similar vein as he spoke of his unhappiness. "Not good enough," he said. "Didn't get in the end zone, scored six points. Didn't create much rhythm and flow for ourselves. I've got to be better, certainly got to play better, give ourselves more chances to make plays and execute more consistently."

Adding on his own play, he continued: "I'm focused on doing my job and playing as well as I can. I've got to play better, I know that. And I'm focused on doing that. I think I've got to continue to get into a rhythm and get going, complete some balls, get things moving. I think we've all got to do that and that will help us build confidence and keep going."

Daboll, Jones and the Giants have the chance to silence their critics and bounce back in week 2 as they face the Washington Commanders in their first division-rivalry matchup. Jones’ performance is sure to be scrutinized with offseason signing from the Seattle Seahawks, second-stringer Drew Lock, waiting in the wings.