Skattebo Accepts Blame for Costly Turnover
New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo said he felt a sense of relief when the clock expired in overtime against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, even though his team did not win. The Giants lost, but Skattebo acknowledged that the ending spared him from some of the criticism he expected for a fumble that occurred when the Giants were already in field goal range. The turnover happened on the first play after the two-minute warning, when Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne punched the ball out of Skattebo's grasp. Washington then drove into position for a potential kick of their own as time wound down.[S1]
Skattebo described the final sequence as insane, noting that it would reduce the amount of blame directed at him for a play he wishes he could take back. He explained that he had felt well protected on the carry but credited Payne with making a great play. In hindsight, Skattebo said he should have prioritized ball security over fighting for extra yards, since the Giants were already in a favorable position. He admitted that his instinct to battle for additional yardage backfired on that particular play, and he emphasized that he must protect the football for the team, adding that they would have won if he had.[S1]
Commanders' Clock Management Ends Game
The Commanders never attempted a kick after driving into range because they made the unusual decision to run a play with 12 seconds remaining. Quarterback Jayden Daniels ran the ball, and time expired before Washington could line up to spike it. That sequence allowed the Giants to escape with a tie at the end of regulation, but the game ultimately ended in overtime. Skattebo's fumble was not the only miscue: Giants kicker Dominic Zvada missed three field goals on Sunday, including one earlier in the overtime period. Still, Skattebo placed the result on his own shoulders, and because of Daniels and Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, he will not have to face as much grief from others.[S1]
