The New York Giants’ 34-27 loss on Sunday left two lineup questions for coach John Harbaugh: who will start at quarterback next week, and which running back will earn a larger role. J.J. McCarthy mounted a late rally after replacing Jameis Winston, while Cam Skattebo played without recording a carry.
McCarthy threw for 243 yards in the game’s final 11 minutes and helped the Giants cut a 34-10 deficit to seven points. Harbaugh praised the quarterback’s performance, saying he did a strong job given the circumstances. McCarthy said he was disappointed by the loss and planned to review the game film for ways to improve.
Harbaugh did not confirm whether Winston would retain the starting job. Asked shortly after the game, he said he could not answer immediately and later reiterated that the decision was not then up for discussion. He also said he had no issue with Winston and praised his competitiveness and effort. Winston had thrown two interceptions and, according to the account, was ineffective before spending the fourth quarter on the bench.
McCarthy joined the Giants in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings last month. His late performance gives the team another option at quarterback, but Harbaugh’s comments left the next start unresolved.
The running back group also remains unsettled. Harbaugh said four players—Najee Harris, Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy and Devin Singletary—were active as the team looked for more production. The Giants managed 84 rushing yards. Harbaugh said none of the backs had clearly taken control of the role and that one needed to step up.
Skattebo did enter the game, but did not get a rushing attempt. Harbaugh said that was not a deliberate decision to keep the back from carrying the ball; the Giants did not call runs when Skattebo was on the field. The account notes that Skattebo had fumbled four times this season, losing one, but Harbaugh did not cite those fumbles as the reason for his limited use.
The loss therefore produced no immediate announcement about either position. McCarthy made a case for consideration with his fourth-quarter passing, while Harbaugh said the running back competition remained open. The coach’s stated focus was on evaluating performance and returning to work after the defeat.
