The Giants have failed to convert from the inside the Saints’ five-yard-line and they’ve turned the ball over three times, but they lead the Saints 7-0 after a big play by their special teams.
Defensive tackle Jonathan Hankins blocked a Wil Lutz field goal attempt and cornerback Janoris Jenkins scooped the ball up behind the entire Saints team for an easy cruise of a 65-yard touchdown return. Lutz’s kick never got much height and Hankins didn’t find much resistance on his way through the line.
The Saints were in position to try a field goal because linebacker Michael Mauti knocked the ball loose from Eli Manning on a sack, but they couldn’t get beyond the Giants’ 20-yard-line as Drew Brees and company continued to struggle against the rebuilt Giants defense.
Manning was the third Giant to fumble, joining Victor Cruz and Shane Vereen, and they failed to score on a fourth down pass to Odell Beckham on their second drive of the day. That’s why the Giants had not been able to capitalize on a strong day for the defense, but they finally lead because two members of the unit took care of business on their own.