Giants stun Chargers with victory in Jaxson Dart's debut

In a stunning upset in Week 4 of the NFL, the New York Giants (1-3) shocked the previously undefeated Los Angeles Chargers (3-1) with a 21-18 final score at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Before 82,500 fans who roared their approval of rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart's triumphant debut, the New York defense stifled Justin Herbert, while the rookie quarterback shined in his first start, throwing for one touchdown and rushing for another to snap a three-game losing streak. This victory eases the pressure on head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen, who drafted Dart in the 2025 draft.

Game Summary:

First Quarter: The Giants took the lead with a methodical drive culminating in a field goal by Graham Gano (3-0). The Chargers responded with a field goal by Cameron Dicker (3-3), but the NY defense limited LA to just 45 passing yards in the quarter.

Second Quarter: Dart connected with Theo Johnson on a 3-yard shovel pass for his first career touchdown (10-3, after a failed two-point conversion and a penalty). Herbert answered with a 36-yard pass to Quentin Johnston just before halftime (10-10).

Third Quarter: Rookie Omarion Hampton of Carolina broke off a 54-yard touchdown run for the Chargers, followed by a two-point conversion by Herbert (10-18). The Giants tied the score with a 15-yard rushing touchdown by Dart himself (17-18).

Fourth Quarter: The NY defense forced a fumble by Herbert, recovered by Deonte Banks, setting up a field goal by Gano for the lead (20-18). The Chargers drove into Giants territory, but an Isaiah Rodgers punt block and the relentless clock sealed the victory without further scoring. Game Keys:

New York Giants (1-3): Jaxson Dart, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 Draft, made his debut with 18 of 25 passes for 185 yards, a TD, no interceptions, plus 45 rushing yards and a rushing TD. His command impressed, completing 4 of 5 on key drives. The defense, led by Abdul Carter (2 sacks) and Andru Phillips (1 INT), stifled Herbert (22 of 38, 210 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs), allowing only 78 rushing yards to LA. Malik Nabers added 65 yards before injuring his knee (carted off, status unknown). "This is for the fans who believed in us," Daboll said post-game.
Los Angeles Chargers (3-1): Justin Herbert struggled under pressure, with two INTs and a fumble that proved costly, despite his connection with Johnston (72 yards, TD). The rushing game, with J.K. Dobbins at 62 yards, faltered without Gus Edwards (injured). The offensive line suffered with the loss of Joe Alt (ankle, carted off), adding to their chronic problems. Jesse Minter's defense, top-10 in the red zone, couldn't contain Dart. "We gave it our all, but mistakes killed us," admitted HC Jim Harbaugh.
Highlight: Dart's 15-yard rushing TD in the third quarter, his first in the NFL, tied the game and energized the crowd. Brian Burns' forced fumble in the final quarter sealed the deal for LA.

Division Context:
The Giants, after a disastrous 0-3 start (including a shutout against Washington), break the curse with Dart, their aggressively drafted "QB of the future." They have a bye in Week 5, then face Dallas. The Chargers, coming off solid wins (including a 27-21 victory over the Chiefs), see their winning streak snapped. They return to SoFi Stadium to face the Broncos in Week 5. Historically, the Giants lead the series 6-5 against the Chargers, and this upset highlights the potential impact of rookies in 2025. In conclusion: A dream debut for Dart transforms the Giants' narrative from "failure" to "hope," while the Chargers pay dearly for their weaknesses in the offensive line and turnovers. This 21-18 victory, played under the lights at MetLife Stadium, is the highlight of the week and a statement of intent for the Giants in the NFC East.