BUFFALO, N.Y. — New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart showcased poise and precision in his NFL debut, completing 12 of 19 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown while leading the team to a 34-25 preseason victory over the Buffalo Bills on Saturday.
Dart, the Giants’ first-round draft pick from Ole Miss, entered the game after veteran Russell Wilson handled the opening drive. Wilson went 6 for 7 for 28 yards, setting a conservative tone before handing off to the rookie. Dart wasted no time making an impact. On his first snap, he connected with wide receiver Zach Pascal for a 9-yard gain, moving the chains and settling into the rhythm of Brian Daboll’s offense.
The rookie’s highlight came on his second drive. Facing a third-and-5 in Bills territory, Dart stood firm against pressure and rifled a 29-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey in the left corner of the end zone. The throw demonstrated Dart’s arm strength and anticipation, capping a drive that included a long catch-and-run by wide receiver Montrell Washington. That score gave the Giants a lead they maintained through halftime, entering the break up 16-10.
Dart added mobility to his performance, rushing three times for a team-high 24 yards. His scrambles extended plays and kept Buffalo’s defense off balance, contributing to an efficient outing that yielded a 106.0 passer rating. He avoided turnovers and sacks, showing command in the pocket despite the preseason intensity. The Giants’ offense clicked under Dart, generating three scoring drives in his limited action before he exited at halftime.
New York’s overall attack balanced Dart’s passing with a ground game that totaled 79 yards on 25 carries. The team converted 35 of 51 passes for 317 yards and three touchdowns across all quarterbacks, overwhelming Buffalo’s reserves in the second half. Defensively, the Giants forced key stops, including a late fumble recovery by Trace Ford that set up a sealing touchdown. Rookie edge rusher Abdul Carter flashed potential, pressuring Bills tackles in his brief snaps and hinting at the strength of New York’s 2025 draft class.
Buffalo mounted challenges with four lead changes in the first half, but the Bills’ backups struggled to contain the Giants’ momentum. New York’s special teams contributed, with kicker Graham Gano hitting three field goals, including a 53-yarder. The win marked a promising start for the Giants, who seek to rebound from a disappointing 3-14 record last season.
Dart’s debut energized the sideline and fanbase. He averaged 8.1 yards per attempt and posted a 0.36 EPA per dropback, metrics that underscored his efficiency. His ability to evade rushers and deliver under duress addressed preseason questions about his transition from college. Teammates praised his preparation, noting how he built chemistry with receivers like Humphrey during training camp.
As the Giants prepare for their next preseason matchup, Dart’s performance positions him as a potential spark for the franchise. The rookie avoided the pitfalls that plague many first-year quarterbacks, blending arm talent with decision-making. New York fans now eye the regular season opener with optimism, viewing Dart as a cornerstone in the team’s rebuild. The game drew a lively crowd at Highmark Stadium, where temperatures hovered in the mid-80’s under partly sunny skies.
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