Giants running back Cam Skattebo got benched for the entire first quarter against the New Orleans Saints today, a drastic move after a brutal run of fumbling issues plagued him through the first five weeks of the season. Skattebo, who had started every single game for the Giants up to Week 6, was completely shut out of touches while other guys got their shot. This ain’t just a minor sideline adjustment, folks, this is a statement.
The Fumble That Broke the Camel’s Back
Skattebo’s fumbling problem reached a boiling point in Week 5. After four fumbles in five games this season, he finally lost one in overtime against the Washington Commanders. That turnover absolutely handed the Commanders a prime chance to win the game. Honestly, the Giants only got bailed out because Washington somehow let the clock expire in overtime without even trying a field goal. Talk about a close call! This season, Skattebo has coughed up the ball four times in just 81 attempts. Compare that to his rookie year, when he had only one fumble in 101 attempts. The trend is going in totally the wrong direction, and you can bet the coaching staff noticed.
Not Just Najee: Giants Went Deep to Skip Skattebo
Ahead of this game, rumors were flying that Najee Harris would take over as the starting running back because of Skattebo’s struggles. Turns out, those rumors were right, with Harris getting the start. But it was way more than just Harris jumping Skattebo on the depth chart. In that first quarter against the Saints, Skattebo didn’t get a single rushing attempt. Instead, the Giants spread the ball around to five other players! Besides Harris, we saw Tyrone Tracy, Devin Singletary, Jameis Winston, and even Darnell Mooney all get carries. That’s a massive message when a guy who was your starter suddenly can’t even get on the field for a touch.
This story is still unfolding, and for Skattebo, it’s gotta feel like he’s at a crossroads. The Giants clearly have zero tolerance for the fumbling. What happens next for him, and how does the team move forward? We’ll be watching to see how this situation develops.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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