The New York Giants lost 24-21 to the Washington Commanders on Thursday after a failed quarterback sneak in the fourth quarter left them unable to run out the clock, and video analysis points to running back Cam Skattebo’s delayed movement as a key factor.
With the Giants leading 17-14 and facing third-and-1 at their own 11-yard line with less than four minutes remaining, backup quarterback Jameis Winston attempted a “Tush Push” — a quarterback sneak in which teammates push the ball carrier forward from behind. Skattebo, who was supposed to provide that push, remained in his three-point stance for nearly two seconds after the snap instead of moving immediately.
Former Philadelphia Eagles staffer Ryan Paganetti reviewed the play and posted a timed breakdown on X.
“(It’s) 1.8 seconds. That’s how long Cam Skattebo stayed in his stance after the snap on this critical 3rd & 1. He didn’t reach the pile until about 2.8 seconds had elapsed. By then, Winston’s initial push had already been stopped,” Paganetti wrote.
Paganetti said the delay may have changed the outcome of the game.
“The Giants fell just short and ultimately punted while protecting a four point lead. On a play decided by inches, this delay could have been the difference between keeping the ball and giving Washington another chance. It may have cost the Giants the game.”
Officials initially ruled that Winston had gained the needed yard, but the call was overturned on review. The Giants punted, and while they intercepted Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels on the next possession, a subsequent three-and-out gave Washington the ball back for what became the game-winning drive.
Giants coach John Harbaugh, whose cautious play-calling drew criticism throughout the game, said after the 5-3-1 loss that he had not noticed the delay in real time.
“I’d have to see the tape, I’m not sure about that,” Harbaugh said. “I don’t have a comment really until I see it on tape.”
Skattebo scored two rushing touchdowns in the game despite vomiting at one point during play, but he was not asked directly about the failed sneak afterward. He offered a general assessment of the team’s fourth-quarter performance.
“We fell short on a couple third downs,” Skattebo said. “We had opportunities at the end of the game to close it out and we didn’t. It’s simple as that. We got to execute better.”
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