ATLANTA – The New York Giants continued their dismal season with the Atlanta Falcons pummeling them 34-7 during their Week 16 matchup at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marking the Giants’ 10th consecutive loss — the longest losing streak in franchise history. The defeat cements the Giants’ focus on the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft after another bleak season.
For the Giants (2-13), this game was about more than just the loss; it underscored the struggles of their quarterback, Drew Lock, who has been central to the team’s difficulties this season. Lock, starting for the Giants on Sunday, had moments of hope early, including a two-yard touchdown pass to Tyrone Tracy Jr. at the start of the second quarter, giving the New York team its first and only lead at 7-0.
Yet, the tide quickly turned with the Falcons bouncing back to take control of the game. Riley Patterson cut the lead to 7-3 with a missed earlier 43-yard field attempt, but the Falcons responded immediately. Lock’s difficult afternoon continued as he threw two interceptions, including one picked off by Jessie Bates III, who returned it for 55 yards, giving the Falcons their first lead, 10-7.
“Drew Lock throws Pick 6 to Jessie Bates (55-yard return) on throw for Wan'Dale Robinson,” reported Dan Duggan during the game. Lock struggled throughout the match, severely impacting the Giants’ offense.
The Falcons’ offense, now run by rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr., displayed some efficiency. Penix, making his first NFL start, took command with solid plays. After Bates’ interception, Bijan Robinson capped off the Falcons' subsequent drive with a four-yard rushing touchdown, extending the lead to 17-7 by halftime. Robinson has been one of the shining stars for Atlanta this season, and his momentum played a significant part after his second touchdown of the game.
“Finally getting involved: Bijan Robinson breaks tackle at the line of scrimmage and manages to score,” reflected one analyst. The Falcons now appeared dominant, leading comfortably against the hapless Giants.
Post-halftime, the Falcons were relentless, scoring 14 unanswered points. Drew Lock’s performance faltered entirely as he continued to struggle against the Falcon's defense. Despite starting with some promise, it quickly transformed to disaster as he was picked off again for another pick-six.
“Malik Nabers had head 2 illegal shift penalties today for not getting set,” noted Ed Valentine, illustrating the Giants’ continued miscues. Meanwhile, the Falcons capitalized on nearly every mistake, thanks largely to Penix's composure amid the chaos.
The Giants’ defense failed to make necessary adjustments, allowing the Falcons to run the clock down. With the passing game limited and their run game unable to produce substantial yardage, the Giants' offense faltered continuously against their opponents.
Atlanta's victory showcased significant areas for improvement for New York. The Giants’ offensive performance has been marred by inconsistency at the quarterback position, and the latest loss only intensified speculation about their future roster moves heading toward the draft.
Post-game, the conversation concentrated on potential draft picks. The Giants currently sit at the No. 2 pick, aiming to secure pivotal talent during the 2025 NFL draft following their poor performance this season. At the same time, the Falcons, now at 8-7, are attempting to vie for playoff contention after some shaky games earlier this season.
This matchup highlighted not only the capabilities of up-and-coming stars like Michael Penix Jr. but also the Giants’ prolonged search for stability at the quarterback position. It remains to be seen how these teams will adjust and what their future strategies will entail as the playoffs approach and the draft looms. The Falcons, with their win, have undoubtedly set their sight upward, continuing their pursuit of the playoffs, whereas the Giants are painfully left with reflecting on another year of lost opportunities.
