Giants bench Manning, name Daniel Jones starting QB
The Daniel Jones era officially began Tuesday in New York as the Giants named the rookie their starting quarterback over Eli Manning for Week 3.
The decision follows a less-than-ideal 0-2 start for the Giants; they've been outscored 63-31 despite putting up 420 yards per game. Jones, the sixth overall pick out of Duke, will take the G-Men's reins for Sunday's matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Head coach Pat Shurmur said he informed Manning of the change earlier Tuesday morning. Shurmur praised the Giants' all-time leader in passing yards, touchdowns, and completions.
"I have said it since I got here: I am very fond of Eli - his work ethic, his preparation, his football intelligence," Shurmur said, according to Michael Eisen of the team's website.
The coach added, "This move is more about Daniel moving forward than about Eli."
Jones didn't have eye-popping numbers in college, but "Danny Dimes" sparkled in the 2019 preseason, throwing for 416 yards, a pair of touchdowns, and no turnovers while sporting an 85.3 completion percentage and a 137.2 passer rating.
Manning owns a 116-116 career record. He's defeated Tom Brady on the biggest stage twice, both times earning Super Bowl MVP honors.