Cam Skattebo understood the New York Giants would reduce his role after four fumbles in five games, including a costly overtime turnover against the Washington Commanders. He did not expect zero touches and only six snaps in Sunday’s 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints, however.
Averaging 18.2 touches, the second-year back played only in the first half and finished without a carry or target — a career first.
“I got punished for what I did, and I understand,” Skattebo told the New York Post. “I’ve got to be ready when coach calls my name. And that wasn’t today.”
He expected fewer snaps but not a shutout.
“I didn’t expect to have zero, but I was expecting to not play as much, just like I did," he said. "The message is, ‘Keep your head down and keep
going.’ They understand the type of player I am, and I just have to continue to do my job to the best of my ability.”
Head coach John Harbaugh denied a benching.
“We did not bench Cam Skattebo,” he told reporters after the game. “That was not by design. It’s just when he was in the game, we didn’t call any runs.”
Najee Harris, Devin Singletary and Tyrone Tracy Jr. combined for 14 carries and 34 yards. Tracy scored on a 17-yard reception and a five-yard run.
“I’ve made mistakes, and I have to own up to them. When you make mistakes like that, consequences are to be made,” Skattebo said. “Did I know it was going to go from 50 snaps to six snaps? No. If that’s what it is, that’s what it is. I have to get back to practice, work my butt off, and hopefully it comes back around.”
The Giants fell to 3-2-1. Skattebo’s return will depend on his practice response as the running game seeks consistency.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Giants' Cam Skattebo understands his 'punishment,' but not the severity
