Giants Name J.J. McCarthy Starting Quarterback for Matchup Against Texans

Giants make the QB change

The New York Giants are making a change under center for their upcoming matchup against the Houston Texans. J.J. McCarthy is set to get the nod as quarterback one this week following a remarkable performance in relief duty.

The decision comes directly after New York suffered a 34-27 defeat against the New Orleans Saints. McCarthy stepped on the field late in the contest and nearly pulled off a massive comeback.

A historic fourth quarter rally

McCarthy entered the Saints game with just under 12 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. He took over the offense and immediately started pushing the ball down the field. In his brief time on the field, he threw for 243 yards.

That stat line represents the second most passing yards in a fourth quarter by a quarterback who did not start a game over the past 25 years. McCarthy successfully led three scoring drives and pushed the offense all the way into the red zone during the final seconds before the clock ran out.

Winston takes a backseat

McCarthy arrived in New York late last month after the team acquired him in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings. His sudden spark off the bench against New Orleans clearly shifted the team plans at quarterback.

Before last weekend, Jameis Winston held an undefeated record in his three starts for the Giants this season. However, Winston had a difficult time against the Saints defense. He managed only 152 passing yards with one touchdown and two interceptions before the team turned to McCarthy.

What it means for the next game

New York Giants at Houston Texans (NFL, Sun, 25 Oct): Houston Texans win 78%, New York Giants win 22%; projected score Houston Texans 26, New York Giants 18. Our safest pick: Giants +17.