49ers defeat Giants 34-24 as Dart shines despite team’s struggles

The San Francisco 49ers defeated the New York Giants 34-24, leaving the Giants mired in a difficult season with a record of 2-7.

Why it matters: This game highlights the growing frustration among Giants fans and the challenges facing a young team under new leadership.

• The loss marks the Giants' third consecutive defeat and leaves them with an alarming 11-32 record since the start of 2023.
• Fans expressed their dissatisfaction through aerial banners addressing owner John Mara, signaling a need for change.

What’s new: Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart showcased his potential despite the loss, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for another.

• Dart's performance is a silver lining in a disappointing season, indicating he may be a key player for the team's future.
• His comments about the lopsided crowd support reflect the current state of the franchise, emphasizing the need to rebuild fan trust and engagement.

Yes, but: While Dart's individual stats are promising, the team's overall performance continues to raise concerns.

• Head coach Brian Daboll acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, "We've got to continue to improve here," highlighting the inconsistency that has plagued the Giants this season.

What to watch: The 49ers’ offensive execution, particularly from running back Christian McCaffrey, played a crucial role in their victory, as he scored two touchdowns.

• McCaffrey's effectiveness underscores the importance of a strong run game in the modern NFL, especially against a struggling defense like that of the Giants.

By the numbers: MetLife Stadium hosted an attendance of 83,258, emphasizing the significant interest in both teams despite the Giants' struggles.

• The final score reflects a competitive game; however, the disparity in team records tells a more profound story of the 49ers' aspirations compared to the Giants' ongoing rebuilding process.

The bottom line: As the Giants navigate their tumultuous season, they must focus on developing talents like Dart while addressing systemic issues within the organization.

• Moving forward, the Giants will need to build around their rookie quarterback and find ways to restore the confidence of their fan base to avoid further disillusionment.