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.













