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Following the New York Giants' 34-27 defeat to the New Orleans Saints in Week 6, head coach John Harbaugh appeared irritated when questioned about running back Cam Skattebo's lack of involvement. Harbaugh maintained that Skattebo was not benched, attributing the running back's six snaps without a single carry or target to game flow rather than a deliberate decision.
However, Skattebo offered a different perspective, revealing that he was disciplined for his recent fumbling problems. According to the running back, his fumble in the Week 5 tie against the Washington Commanders was the tipping point. The 24-year-old acknowledged the consequences of his actions and expressed determination to be ready when called upon again.
"I got punished for what I did," Skattebo said. "I understand it, so I gotta be ready when coach calls my name, and that wasn't today. Yeah, it's hard. But I've made mistakes. I own up to them, and if that is what they want to do—is keep me on the sidelines because of [fumbling]—I totally understand. I can't make mistakes at this level of the game. When you make mistakes like that, consequences are to be made."
In the loss to the Saints, the Giants distributed 20 rushing attempts among six players. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy led the way with two scrambles for 26 yards, while Tyrone Tracy saw the most work at running back with six carries for 18 yards and a touchdown. Harbaugh explained that he aimed to involve four different running backs, but Skattebo was the only one who did not record a single rush attempt.
Key Analysis
Skattebo's benching, whether officially labeled as such or not, highlights the coaching staff's emphasis on ball security. The former fourth-round pick's admission of fault suggests a mature approach to his mistakes, but his reduced role raises questions about his future usage. With the Giants set to face the Houston Texans on Sunday, October 25, Skattebo will have an opportunity to regain the coaching staff's trust and earn more playing time.
Originally reported by yahoo.