The New York Giants' loss to the Washington Commanders highlights the importance of having a reliable kicker in crucial moments.

Why it matters: The absence of a kicker severely impacted the Giants' ability to score points and ultimately cost them the game against a division rival.

What's new: Graham Gano, the Giants' starting kicker, pulled his hamstring on the opening kickoff, leaving the team without a viable option for field goals or extra points.

Yes, but: Despite the challenging circumstances, Giants coach Brian Daboll refused to make excuses for the team's performance and emphasized the need for accountability.

What to watch: The Giants' decision to go for it on fourth down instead of attempting a field goal with punter Jamie Gillan raises questions about their confidence in their kicking situation.

• Daboll believed their chances were better with a play rather than a 39- or 40-yard field goal.
• This strategic choice indicates a lack of trust in the available kicking options.

What's next: The Giants will need to address their kicking situation promptly to avoid similar issues in future games.

• They may consider elevating kicker Jude McAtamney from the practice squad or exploring other potential signings.
• The team cannot afford to rely solely on their offense to convert touchdowns without a reliable kicker.

The bottom line: While quarterback Daniel Jones had a solid performance, throwing two touchdown passes and avoiding turnovers, the absence of a kicker hindered the Giants' ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

• The loss serves as a reminder of the critical role kickers play in the outcome of games.
• The Giants must prioritize finding a solution to ensure they have a dependable kicker moving forward.

The New York Giants' loss to the Washington Commanders highlights the importance of having a reliable kicker in crucial moments.

Why it matters: The absence of a kicker severely impacted the Giants' ability to score points and ultimately cost them the game against a division rival.

What's new: Graham Gano, the Giants' starting kicker, pulled his hamstring on the opening kickoff, leaving the team without a viable option for field goals or extra points.

Yes, but: Despite the challenging circumstances, Giants coach Brian Daboll refused to make excuses for the team's performance and emphasized the need for accountability.

What to watch: The Giants' decision to go for it on fourth down instead of attempting a field goal with punter Jamie Gillan raises questions about their confidence in their kicking situation.

• Daboll believed their chances were better with a play rather than a 39- or 40-yard field goal.
• This strategic choice indicates a lack of trust in the available kicking options.

What's next: The Giants will need to address their kicking situation promptly to avoid similar issues in future games.

• They may consider elevating kicker Jude McAtamney from the practice squad or exploring other potential signings.
• The team cannot afford to rely solely on their offense to convert touchdowns without a reliable kicker.

The bottom line: While quarterback Daniel Jones had a solid performance, throwing two touchdown passes and avoiding turnovers, the absence of a kicker hindered the Giants' ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

• The loss serves as a reminder of the critical role kickers play in the outcome of games.
• The Giants must prioritize finding a solution to ensure they have a dependable kicker moving forward.