New York Giants rookie cornerback Deonte Banks made his NFL debut this past Friday night in a preseason loss to the Detroit Lions. And while he played relatively well, one play stood out specifically.
Late in the first quarter, Banks was beaten deep by rookie Jameson Williams, who dropped the ball — at least that’s how it appeared in real-time and at first glance.
Those on the Lions’ side of things continue to argue that Williams dropped a would-be touchdown.
Commentators and fans in attendance certainly groaned when Williams dropped what would have been a sure touchdown early in Friday’s preseason opener.
Detroit’s radio broadcast was adamant that the pass tossed by Nate Sudfeld could not have been better placed and should have been caught.
Part of that is accurate. Sudfeld did place the ball perfectly. It landed right in the hands of Williams but upon replay, there was a little more to it.
Banks hadn’t been beaten deep. Even here at Giants Wire, initial reactions to the play varied. There was a significant disagreement about what had transpired in that moment but it was immediately onto the next play.
The conversation went as follows:
“Williams should have caught that ball,” one of the Giants Wire writers wrote to the group chat.
Another agreed. But it wasn’t a universal opinion.
“I don’t think he was (going to) catch it either way. Banks had both of his arms ripped down at the side,” another responded.
We’re not going to throw anyone under the bus because it was a bang-bang play and real-time evaluation is difficult. But after re-watching the play after the game, what actually transpired was clear.
Deonte Banks first time tested in the NFL vs Jameson Williams pic.twitter.com/Kdbq2Vw80c
— Justin Penik (@JustinPenik) August 11, 2023
“I played the deep ball real good,” Banks told the New York Post following to 21-16 loss. “He didn’t have a step on me.”
Banks was correct in recollection. He went stride-for-stride with Williams and had, in fact, ripped Williams’ arms down at the side. There was no drop — the rookie receiver was unable to secure the ball because of Banks’ defense.
#NYGiants rookie CB Deonte Banks didn't get beat by Lions WR Jameson Williams.
Banks was step for step + then when the ball hit Williams' hands, Banks made a great play to stop him from completing the catch. What's next for 7 #NYG who impressed: https://t.co/qZWdZ9uL3g pic.twitter.com/hdsCnQfEhd— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) August 12, 2023
“I thought I played good,” Banks added. “I feel good about myself.”
And Banks should feel good about himself. All of the Giants’ rookies should. None were perfect but they all contributed on Friday night and displayed some serious upside. The organization should be optimistic about each and now it’s up to them, Banks included, the build upon a solid preseason start.
