The New York Giants came up short against the Washington Commanders on Thursday night, but there was no shortage of bright spots for Big Blue.
One player in particular delivered a game-changing moment when the Giants needed it most.
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Tight end Isaiah Likely is the Giants Wire Player of the Game after making one of the biggest plays of the night in New York’s loss. He also led the team with nine receptions on 11 targets for nine receptions, 127 yards and a touchdown.
Likely entered the matchup coming off a strong performance against Philadelphia, where he caught five passes for 53 yards and the Giants’ only touchdown. He carried that momentum into Thursday’s divisional rematch, continuing to provide J.J. McCarthy with a reliable option in the passing game.
His biggest contribution came in the fourth quarter, as the Giants trailed and desperately needed a spark. Facing pressure, McCarthy stood in the pocket and delivered a strike to Likely, who turned upfield and raced 66 yards for a go-ahead touchdown. The play gave New York a 21-17 lead with just over eight minutes remaining.
It was exactly the kind of explosive play the Giants needed, and it showcased Likely’s ability to make a difference after the catch. He had already been productive against Washington in the teams’ first meeting, hauling in 11 receptions for 94 yards and two touchdowns in the Week 5 tie.
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Unfortunately, Likely’s big play wasn’t enough to get the Giants over the finish line. Washington rallied late, with Jayden Daniels connecting with Stefon Diggs for a 32-yard go-ahead touchdown with 57 seconds remaining.
Still, Likely was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing result. His ability to create explosive plays and provide a dependable target makes him an increasingly important part of New York’s offense.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants vs. Washington Commanders Player of the Game: TE Isaiah Likely
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