The NFL winners and losers from Week 12 highlighted the challenges facing the New York Giants. Their 30-7 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers exemplified the team’s deep struggles. Fans voiced their frustration as the Giants faltered yet again, fielding a lackluster offense and a porous defense. Quarterback Tommy DeVito’s start raised eyebrows, with many questioning the franchise’s direction.

The Giants’ Quarterback Quandary

Choosing Tommy DeVito over Drew Lock puzzled analysts and fans alike. Lock, a seasoned backup, seemed a safer choice given his NFL experience. DeVito, however, struggled to find a rhythm, finishing the first half with just 31 passing yards. His performance highlighted a glaring issue: New York’s inability to establish a competitive offense. Fans speculated whether this was a deliberate move to improve their draft positioning.

Sam Kirk | MSN | Tommy DeVito struggles to find a rhythm, finishing the first half with 31 passing yards.

Frustrations Boil Over in the Locker Room

After the game, rookie receiver Malik Nabers expressed discontent, pointing out that the team’s struggles go beyond the quarterback position. His comments hinted at deeper systemic problems within the organization. With six games remaining, the Giants appear stuck in a cycle of poor play, low morale, and fan dissatisfaction. The locker room atmosphere mirrors the on-field chaos, leaving little optimism for the future.

A Bleak Future Without Clear Solutions

The Giants’ future hinges on drafting a franchise quarterback, but prospects in the upcoming class offer no guarantees. Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are among the potential picks, yet neither projects as an immediate savior. Without a clear plan, the Giants risk squandering valuable draft capital. Their cap space for next season could provide some flexibility, but past missteps in player retention, such as letting Saquon Barkley walk, raise concerns about management’s decision-making.

Defensive Bright Spots Amid the Darkness

Despite the overall gloom, the Giants do have some standout players. Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence anchors a solid defensive line, while rookies like Nabers and Tyrone Tracy Jr. show promise. However, these bright spots cannot compensate for the glaring holes in the roster. Rebuilding the team will require both strategic drafting and intelligent use of free agency funds. Success depends on identifying long-term solutions rather than stopgap fixes.

Other NFL Winners and Losers from Week 12

Week 12 highlighted the stark contrasts between teams trending upward and those faltering. The Detroit Lions' defense continued to impress among the winners despite injuries. The Lions limited the Colts to just six points, showcasing their depth and coaching prowess. Conversely, the Washington Commanders fell victim to costly mistakes, losing a winnable game against the Dallas Cowboys. Special teams errors ultimately sealed their fate.

Billy Riccette | MSN | The Detroit Lions' defense continues to impress among the winners despite injuries.

Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins’ Resurgence

Tua Tagovailoa delivered an electrifying performance, throwing for 317 yards and four touchdowns in the Dolphins’ victory over the Patriots. His return to form reinvigorates Miami’s playoff hopes, proving his value as a franchise quarterback. The Dolphins’ offensive resurgence underlines how critical stability at quarterback can be for a team’s success. For the Giants, this is a stark reminder of what they lack.

Kansas City Chiefs Raise Concerns Despite Victory

Even in victory, the Kansas City Chiefs raised eyebrows. A last-second field goal secured a narrow win over the struggling Panthers. While the Chiefs remain atop the standings, their recent performances suggest vulnerabilities. In the postseason, close games against weaker opponents could spell trouble, where consistency is key. For the Giants, this contrast emphasizes the gap between contenders and teams in disarray.

The Long Road Ahead for the Giants

The Giants’ struggles extend beyond a single bad game or a losing season. Addressing their issues requires a cultural shift within the organization. Until then, the road to recovery will remain long and uncertain. While Week 12 showcased several rising teams, the Giants exemplified how far they are from competing at an NFL level.