Tight end Isaiah Likely credited strong dialogue at halftime and quarterback Jameis Winston’s willingness to listen for the New York Giants’ second-half push that forced overtime in their 27-27 tie with the Washington Commanders.
The Giants trailed by 14 points entering the final eight minutes of regulation. Likely said the adjustments and communication that followed the break helped turn the game.
“Great feedback at halftime. Player dialogue, coaches' dialogue, and really just getting behind your brother,” Likely told reporters. “You know, Jameis was open ears. He understood that the job in the second half was to get us back in the game and that’s exactly what he did.”
Likely described Winston’s presence in the huddle as consistent and purposeful
once the offense found its rhythm.
“It was amazing. Jameis is one of those, when he’s clicking, he’s clicking,” Likely said. “I feel like today, he showed that fire in his eyes coming into the huddle every time, knowing that when there’s plays to be made, he can make a play.”
That approach showed up in the distribution of targets. Likely and Malik Nabers combined for 33 looks as New York played from behind. Likely noted the increased volume was a natural response to the deficit and that other players contributed as well.
“That’s crazy. Obviously, when you’re down two touchdowns, you're obviously gonna throw the ball a little more,” Likely said. “So just knowing that you’re playmakers gotta be playmakers, and I feel like everybody did a great job. Theo had great catches, Mooney had some great catches, Malachi getting first downs and the backs picking up protection, everybody played a big part.”
Winston echoed the reliance on his top two options.
“They’re world-class at what they do. They’re our best pass catchers,” Winston said. “I’m grateful that they’re on our team, and I have to continue to find ways to just consistently get them the football.”
Likely said the feedback loop with Winston centered on trust in leverage and winning individual plays. He added that Winston responded by placing the ball in their hands and expecting them to produce.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Isaiah Likely: Halftime dialogue, Jameis Winston's open ears fueled Giants' OT push
