Logo

Giants' Brian Daboll Wins Fans' Hearts with Cheeky Tribute to John Mara After Surprise Win Over Eagles!

Giants' Brian Daboll Wins Fans' Hearts with Cheeky Tribute to John Mara After Surprise Win Over Eagles!

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The New York Giants shocked the NFL with a 34-17 victory over the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday Night Football (Oct. 9, 2025) at MetLife Stadium. But it was head coach Brian Daboll's emotional postgame gesture — handing the ball to team owner John Mara — that had fans bursting with pride.

GiantsPride, once a proud franchise, has struggled since the 2012 Super Bowl, making the playoffs just twice in 13 years and losing more than 10 games in nine seasons. Mara, 70, who was recently diagnosed with cancer, expressed frustration at the team's decline. “This win means a lot to Mara,” fan Mike Russo tweeted, as the hashtag #GiantsPride trended with 2 million views.

Rookie stars Jaxson Dart (17-of-25, 195 yards, 2 TDs) and Cam Skattebo (98 yards, 3 TDs) were instrumental in the Giants’ first NFC East win since 2023, improving their record to 2-4. Despite a weakened passing lineup and an eight-game losing streak, Big Blue prevailed. “Dart and Skattebo are bringing joy to Giants football!” fan Sarah Klein posted on X.

Dart, under pressure to perform at his best in his fourth year, chose to honor Mara with “The Duke” game ball, named after Mara’s father, Wellington. “No one deserves this more than John,” Daboll said after the game. “He’s fighting the biggest battle of his life, and we fought hard for him.” The moment deeply touched Mara.

The emotional tribute left a lasting impression. “Daboll’s gesture for Mara touched me,” fan Joey Martelli tweeted. “This team is determined, just like our owner!” Clips of the ceremony, which featured co-owners Steve Tisch and Eli Manning, went viral, garnering thousands of likes on Page X.

The unexpected event could spark a stunning comeback for the Giants. “Big Blue is back, and Mara’s strength inspires us all!” fan Emily Chen wrote. With Dart and Skattebo leading the way, Giants Nation dares to dream of a stunning comeback, fueled by a victory honoring their owner who is battling cancer.

5 views
49ers Drop Bombshell Announcement After NFL’s Shocking Final Ruling on Wild Card Weekend
Santa Clara, California – January 5, 2026 The San Francisco 49ers received the NFL’s official word — and wasted no time making their stance clear. On Sunday night, the league finalized its Wild Card Weekend schedule for the 2025 postseason, confirming that the 49ers, entering as the NFC’s No. 6 seed, will travel to Lincoln Financial Field to face the No. 3-seeded Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, January 11, in the late-afternoon window (approximately 3:30–4:30 p.m. ET). The game will air nationally on FOX, placing a high-stakes postseason matchup under the league’s brightest spotlight. The 49ers’ announcement came shortly after the NFL’s release, emphasizing readiness and resolve despite falling short of the NFC West title. In a brief statement from Santa Clara, the team wrote:“Philadelphia. On the road. Playoff football. This is the moment. We’re ready.” San Francisco enters the postseason after a strong but bittersweet regular season finish. The 49ers closed the year at 12–5, securing a Wild Card berth but missing out on the division crown after a Week 18 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, who surged to a 14–3 record to claim the NFC West. A tiebreaker loss to the Los Angeles Rams (also 12–5) ultimately pushed the 49ers into the No. 6 seed. Speculation has followed the team in the wake of that late-season setback, particularly regarding consistency and execution against elite competition. Despite a roster loaded with postseason experience, the 49ers now face a demanding road path — beginning in one of the league’s most hostile playoff environments. The stakes extend beyond a single game. Lincoln Financial Field presents a punishing atmosphere, especially in January, where Philadelphia has built its identity around physicality and crowd intensity. With the Eagles hosting, the 49ers face not only a top-seeded opponent but an unforgiving environment where mistakes are rarely forgiven. Still, San Francisco is no stranger to adversity. The franchise has navigated deep postseason runs in recent years, and road playoff victories have become part of its recent identity. With both teams entering with legitimate championship aspirations, the margin for error will be razor thin. The NFL has made its schedule.The 49ers have made their statement. Sunday, January 11.Late afternoon.Philadelphia. The stage is set — for survival, redemption, and a postseason chapter that could define the trajectory of San Francisco’s season.