Tommy DeVito’s starting stint ends as Tyrod Taylor takes charge for Giants

Having commenced his NFL journey with the Baltimore Ravens, Tyrod Taylor traversed through four other teams before joining the New York Giants. His tenure with the Giants garnered attention, marking him as the first black quarterback to secure a victory for the team. 

Despite finding his stride with the Giants, an unfortunate injury opened the door for Tommy DeVito. However, the seasoned quarterback, with over a decade of experience at the national level, quickly reclaimed his position with the Giants.

DeVito benched for Tyrod Taylor in Week 16

The Giants decided to bench rookie quarterback Tommy DeVito during their Monday night clash against the Philadelphia Eagles. Tyrod Taylor took over in the second half of the game, ultimately resulting in a 33-25 loss for the Giants at Lincoln Financial Field.

The decision to replace DeVito stemmed from his struggles in the first half, where the Giants managed just 101 total yards and three points. This move disrupted the rising DeVito craze, where the undrafted quarterback had garnered favor among fans and became a compelling underdog story.

In the postgame news conference, Coach Brian Daboll explained his decision, stating, “just try to spark the team. I don’t really have anything else to add. Just did it to spark the team,” according to ESPN.

DeVito, who began the season on the Giants’ practice squad, couldn’t find his rhythm in the first half against the Eagles, though prior to the game he roared enough to embrace the “hostile crowd” of the Eagles fans.

DeVito’s hype peaked three weeks ago when he sealed a come-from-behind victory with game-winning drive against the Green Bay Packers on Monday Night Football. Despite the benching, DeVito maintains a record of seven touchdown passes and one interception in his six starts.

During his tenure as the Giants’ starter, DeVito earned fan-favorite status, securing three wins in the six games he started and accumulating 1,032 passing yards and eight touchdowns throughout the season.

His popularity extended beyond the field with local appearances, and he even inked an endorsement deal with Rao’ after resolving a conflict with a restaurant manager.

Taylor returns after healing from a rib injury

In a twist of fate, DeVito initially stepped in as relief for the Giants’ quarterback, Tyrod Taylor, when Taylor suffered a rib injury in October.

DeVito held onto the starting position for several weeks, showcasing his skills on the field. However, the dynamic changed once again as Taylor overcame his rib injury and reclaimed his spot.

Taylor’s return to action was notable, as he took charge in the game against the New York Jets, demonstrating his professionalism and experience. Unfortunately, the rib injury resurfaced, leading to Taylor being ruled out of the matchup with the Jets.

After cutting out the setback, Taylor proved his prowess on the field, finishing the game with 7-of-16 passing for 133 yards, a touchdown, and an interception on the final play.

While DeVito had filled in admirably, Taylor’s impact on the offense became evident during the game. The team managed to execute more big plays under Taylor’s leadership, including a 69-yard touchdown pass to Slayton. The veteran quarterback’s ability to connect on passes of 15 or more yards added a dynamic element to the Giants’ offensive strategy.

Throughout the season, Taylor has started in three games, with one of them shortened due to his rib injury. Despite limited playing time, he has recorded 592 yards and two touchdowns with a commendable 64.8 completion percentage.

Taylor’s journey with the Giants spans two seasons, and he is now seeking to make a lasting impression in the team’s final games of the season.