The Giants vs Eagles upset on October 9, 2025, at MetLife Stadium delivered a thrilling chapter in their storied NFL rivalry, with the New York Giants dominating the Philadelphia Eagles 34-17. This victory not only snapped an eight-game losing streak in NFC East play for the Giants but also highlighted the emergence of their young talent. Fans were treated to an explosive performance that shifted the dynamics in the division.
From the opening kickoff, the Giants set an aggressive tone. Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, fresh off clearing concussion protocol, showed no signs of rust. He led the team to touchdowns on their first two drives, a feat New York hadn’t accomplished in consecutive weeks since 1978. Meanwhile, the Eagles, fresh off a loss to the Denver Broncos, struggled to find their rhythm. Jalen Hurts and company couldn’t capitalize on opportunities, leading to a frustrating night for the defending Super Bowl champs.
Giants vs Eagles Upset: The Build-Up to the Rivalry Clash
Leading into this Giants vs Eagles matchup, expectations were low for New York. The team had been plagued by injuries and inconsistencies early in the 2025 season. Key players like wide receiver Darius Slayton were sidelined with a hamstring issue, forcing veterans like Lil’Jordan Humphrey to step up. On the other side, Philadelphia appeared poised for dominance. However, internal discussions among stars like A.J. Brown, Hurts, and Saquon Barkley hinted at efforts to solidify team identity amid early frustrations.
The rivalry’s history added extra stakes. The Eagles had won 16 of the last 18 meetings, including playoffs, making this a potential turning point for the Giants. Coach Brian Daboll emphasized pre-game that divisional games carry more weight, and his schematics paid off. As a result, the stage was set for an underdog story.
Giants vs Eagles Upset: Explosive Plays and Key Moments
The game exploded early. In the first quarter, Dart scrambled for a 20-yard untouched rushing touchdown, breaking free from the Eagles’ defense and energizing the crowd. Shortly after, he connected with Wan’Dale Robinson on a 35-yard catch-and-run touchdown pass, where Robinson shook off a tackle and sprinted to the end zone. These plays gave the Giants an early lead they never relinquished.
Philadelphia responded in the second quarter with their signature “tush push.” Hurts powered in from the 1-yard line on the fourth attempt of four consecutive sneaks—a rare sequence since tracking began in 2022. He later added a shovel-pass touchdown to tight end Dallas Goedert. But that was the extent of their scoring. The Giants’ rookie running back Cam Skattebo took over, punching in three short-yardage touchdowns: one from 4 yards and two from the 1-yard line. His gritty style, including a highlight where he fought across the goal line, showcased his potential.
In the third quarter, the Eagles’ momentum stalled. Hurts overthrew a wide-open DeVonta Smith on a potential touchdown play, forcing a punt. This mistake shifted control firmly to New York. Moreover, the Giants’ defense ramped up pressure, sacking Hurts three times—two by Brian Burns, who tied for the NFL lead with seven sacks this season.
The fourth quarter sealed the deal. Cornerback Cor’Dale Flott intercepted Hurts in the red zone—Hurts’ first pick of the year—and returned it 68 yards, setting up another Skattebo score. Philadelphia went scoreless in the second half, punting three straight times. The final score reflected the Giants’ dominance: 34-17.
Standout Performances in the New York Triumph
Jaxson Dart was the star. He completed 17 of 25 passes for 195 yards and one touchdown, while rushing 13 times for 58 yards and another score. His mobility evoked comparisons to elite dual-threat QBs like Lamar Jackson. Dart’s poise under pressure, especially after a big hit that required a concussion check, proved his resilience.
Cam Skattebo complemented him perfectly, rushing 19 times for a career-high 98 yards and three touchdowns, plus two receptions for 12 yards. He earned a game ball for his efforts, transforming the Giants’ ground game.
For the Eagles, Hurts had moments but faltered with the interception and overthrow. The defense couldn’t contain Dart’s legs, a recurring issue against mobile quarterbacks this season. Injuries compounded their woes: cornerback Quinyon Mitchell exited with a hamstring strain, and defensive tackle Jalen Carter was inactive due to a heel injury. On the Giants’ side, center John Michael Schmitz suffered a nose injury and concussion, while defensive tackle D.J. Davidson hurt his knee.
…Dart launches a 35-yard touchdown pass to Wan’Dale Robinson.
Defensive Masterclass and Turnovers
New York’s defense deserves credit for the shutout in the second half. They forced turnovers and stops when it mattered most. Flott’s interception was a game-changer, preventing points and swinging momentum. Burns’ sacks disrupted Hurts’ rhythm, limiting the Eagles’ explosive plays.
Philadelphia, typically stout, allowed too many big gains. Their three-and-out rate entering the game was the league’s highest at 35.8%, and it showed here. As a result, the Giants outgained them, controlling the clock and field position.
Implications for the NFC East
This Giants vs Eagles result shakes up the division. New York improves to 2-4, gaining confidence ahead of their October 19 road trip to Denver. For Philadelphia, now 4-2, it’s their first back-to-back losses since late 2023. They face Minnesota on the same date, with 10 days to regroup. Questions linger about their identity, as Brown noted post-game.
The win boosts the Giants’ morale, proving their rookies can lead against top teams. However, injuries could impact future games. Overall, this matchup reminds us why the Giants vs Eagles rivalry remains electric—full of surprises and high stakes.
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