Jalin Hyatt Serves as Giants Spark Plug on Offense
Following six scoreless quarters to open the 2023 NFL season, the New York Giants ignited a spark on offense to overcome the Arizona Cardinals and claim their first win of the year.
Rookie wide receiver Jalin Hyatt led the charge with two massive catches for 89 yards, including a 58-yard pass on the first play of the second half to set up the team’s first touchdown.
That play marked a turning point in both the game and the team’s disposition, giving the Giants the spark they were missing in the first six quarters of football this season, going back to last week's shutout loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
“I think it was important. Big time play by Jalin there, to make it, and it gave us some confidence and momentum going forward,” said quarterback Daniel Jones.
The rookie stepped up again in the fourth quarter. On 1st-and-10 from midfield, Hyatt brought down a highly contested pass for a gain of 31 yards, setting up the Giants to tie the game.
Of his 12 routes, 11 were vertical, giving the rookie a chance to show off his speed, test man coverage, and open opportunities for underneath routes.
Hyatt, who has patiently waited for his opportunity to shine, was proud to have earned the trust of his teammates.
“I love these guys. I love the leaders in the room. I’m best friends with all of them, which shows how much trust they have in me. For me to go out there and make those plays, that’s just what I want to do for this team,” he said.
Sunday’s win and Hyatt’s performance both mark encouraging turnarounds for what began as an abysmal season. In New York’s 40-0 loss to NFC East-rival Dallas Cowboys, Hyatt failed to record a single reception.
“Last week, I didn’t do what I wanted to do personally. I had a drop. Just the effort and everything I did in that game just wasn’t there,” Hyatt said.
“With a new week, when I came into this game, I knew I had to change everything. My whole week of preparation was different. I was watching film 24/7 - seeing who we’re playing.”
Hyatt will have a shorter week to prepare before the Giants take on the undefeated San Francisco 49ers on Thursday night. San Francisco’s defense is one of the best in the league, coming off victories against the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Rams.
In each game, the 49ers have held opponents under 100 yards rushing. Hyatt’s ability to stretch the field and threaten secondaries deep could soften the rush defense of safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Tashaun Gipson.
Hyatt says the Giants have bigger plans than using him as a diversion.
“[Daniel Jones] [is] always standing in my corner saying ‘we’re going to get the ball to you, we’re going to get the ball to you.’ That’s what he did, and I think that just goes back to our leadership,” Hyatt said.
Hyatt’s specialty may typically result in fewer receptions, but with an injured Saquon Barkley missing at least the next three weeks, the Giants may feel inspired to test the 49ers deep to win the game through explosive plays.
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