The New York Giants delivered a shock to the NFL world Sunday, toppling the previously unbeaten Los Angeles Chargers 21-18 in a dramatic Week 4 showdown. Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart made a memorable first start, guiding the Giants to their first win of the season and injecting new hope into a team desperate for momentum.
Dart’s Dazzling Debut: A Star Is Born?
All eyes were on Jaxson Dart as he took the field for his NFL debut, and the rookie did not disappoint. Dart threw for a touchdown and ran for another, showing poise and athleticism that belied his inexperience. His performance was a breath of fresh air for Giants fans, who have been clamoring for a spark at the quarterback position.
The Giants’ offense looked revitalized under Dart’s leadership, mixing quick passes with designed runs that kept the Chargers’ defense guessing. While his stat line wasn’t gaudy, Dart’s ability to extend plays and avoid costly mistakes proved crucial in a tightly contested game.
Giants Defense Steps Up, Herbert Stymied
The Giants’ defense, led by coordinator Shane Bowen, delivered its best performance of the season. They intercepted Chargers star quarterback
Justin Herbert twice, with Dexter Lawrence, Abdul Carter, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Brian Burns all making key plays. The pass rush rattled Herbert throughout the afternoon, forcing hurried throws and disrupting the Chargers’ rhythm.
Chargers head coach
Jim Harbaugh praised his team’s effort but acknowledged the Giants’ defense was the difference-maker. “We fought hard, but you have to give credit to their defense—they made the big plays when it mattered,” Harbaugh said after the game.
Chargers’ Late Rally Falls Short
Despite trailing for much of the game, the Chargers mounted a furious fourth-quarter comeback attempt. Herbert led a late drive that brought LA within three points, but the Giants’ defense held firm in the final minutes, sealing the upset and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
The loss drops the Chargers to 3-1, ending their perfect start to the season. For the Giants, the win is a much-needed morale boost as they look to build momentum heading into Week 5.
Injury Concerns: Nabers’ Status Uncertain
The Giants’ victory was tempered by concern for rookie wide receiver
Malik Nabers, who left the game with a knee injury. Nabers, the team’s top draft pick, had been a key target for Dart before going down. Head coach Brian Daboll said the team is awaiting further evaluation and hopes for positive news, but the injury could force other receivers like Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Jalin Hyatt to step up in the coming weeks.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
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Giants: With Dart now 1-0 as a starter, the Giants will look to keep the momentum going as they prepare to face the New Orleans Saints in Week 5. All eyes will be on Dart to see if he can continue his strong play and solidify his role as the team’s future at quarterback.
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Chargers: The Chargers will regroup and try to bounce back from their first loss of the season. Protecting Herbert and limiting turnovers will be key priorities as they look to stay atop the AFC West.
Takeaways and Future Implications
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Jaxson Dart’s emergence could signal a new era for the Giants, especially if he continues to develop and win games.
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Giants’ defense showed it can compete with top offenses, a promising sign for the rest of the season.
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Chargers remain contenders, but the loss exposes areas—especially turnovers and pass protection—that need attention.
The NFL season is long, but Sunday’s upset could be a turning point for both franchises. Giants fans finally have something to cheer about, while the Chargers are reminded that no team is invincible.
Sources
1. VICTORY MONDAY vs. LA Chargers, WR Targets + Jaxson Dart
2. Giants vs. Chargers: Can the Giants' defense stand up to LA offense?
3. Giants 21-18 Chargers (Sep 28, 2025) Game Recap
4. Los Angeles Chargers News - NewsNow
5. 5 Takeaways: Harbaugh Proud of Chargers Effort Despite 1st Loss of 2025 Season
6. Final score: Jaxson Dart gets first win, Giants beat Chargers 21-18
7. Game Recap: Chargers Can't Complete 4th-Quarter Rally in Week 4 Loss to Giants
8. Giants Home | New York Giants – Giants.com
9. Highlights & updates from Giants' win over Chargers
10. new york giants news
11. NFL Football Highlights, Clips & Analysis
