Jaxson Dart Shines in First Career Start for Giants, Leading Team to Victory in 2025
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – September 30, 2025 – The New York Giants welcomed a new era on Sunday as rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart made his first career start, steering the team to an impressive victory. The win marks a promising beginning for Dart, who joins the storied lineage of Giants quarterbacks, following in the footsteps of legends like Eli Manning and Daniel Jones. In a game that showcased his potential, Dart delivered a performance that has fans and analysts buzzing about the future of the franchise.
Dart, selected in the recent NFL Draft, faced high expectations entering his debut against a formidable opponent. With 111 passing yards and an additional 54 rushing yards, the young quarterback demonstrated versatility and poise under pressure. His stat line included two touchdowns and no interceptions, culminating in a solid 96.0 passer rating. The Giants emerged victorious, a stark contrast to the rocky starts experienced by some of his predecessors in their own debut games.
The image circulating on social media, comparing Dart’s first start to those of Eli Manning (2004) and Daniel Jones (2019), highlights the evolution of Giants quarterback performances. Manning’s debut in 2004 ended in a loss to the Atlanta Falcons, with 162 passing yards, a mere -1 rushing yard, and a 45.1 passer rating, marred by one touchdown and two interceptions. Jones, on the other hand, set a higher bar in 2019, leading the Giants to a win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with 336 passing yards, 28 rushing yards, and an outstanding 112.7 passer rating, with four touchdowns and no interceptions.
Dart’s 2025 performance, while not matching Jones’ explosive output, reflects a balanced and efficient game plan. His ability to contribute both through the air and on the ground—amassing 54 rushing yards—suggests a dynamic playstyle that could redefine the Giants’ offensive strategy. The win against their latest opponent further solidifies Dart’s early impact, giving the team a 2-0 record in games he has started.
The matchup saw Dart take the field with confidence, connecting with receivers early and often. His first touchdown pass, a well-executed 25-yard throw in the second quarter, energized the crowd at MetLife Stadium. The second score came on a scrambling run in the fourth quarter, where Dart evaded defenders to find the end zone, sealing the victory. Coach Brian Daboll praised Dart’s decision-making and mobility post-game, noting, “He showed us what we’ve seen in practice—calm under pressure and a willingness to make plays.”
Defensively, the Giants supported their rookie quarterback with a stout performance, limiting the opposition’s scoring opportunities. This collective effort underscores the team’s evolving identity under Daboll’s leadership, blending youthful talent with veteran experience.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
Social media platforms, particularly X, have been abuzz with reactions to Dart’s debut. Fans have expressed optimism, with posts highlighting his dual-threat capability as a breath of fresh air for a franchise that has struggled in recent years. Analysts, too, have weighed in, with some suggesting that Dart’s rushing ability could force defenses to adapt, potentially unlocking new offensive schemes for the Giants.
As the Giants prepare for their next challenge, all eyes will be on Dart to see if he can build on this momentum. His first start has set a positive tone for the 2025 season, offering hope to a fanbase hungry for sustained success. While comparisons to Manning and Jones are inevitable, Dart’s unique skill set hints at a different path forward. With each game, he has the opportunity to carve out his own legacy in the blue and red.
For now, the victory stands as a testament to Dart’s potential and the Giants’ renewed competitiveness. As the season progresses, the football world will watch closely to see if this debut performance is a sign of things to come or merely a highlight in an otherwise challenging campaign.
