“When They Last Met” is an ongoing series during NFL seasons, recalling the preceding game between Washington and the next opponent on Washington’s schedule.
Washington 30, New York Giants 29 – Week 2, September 16, 2021
Dustin Hopkins was given two opportunities and capitalized, kicking a walk-off field goal from 43 yards, lifting Washington over the New York Giants 30-29 in a Thursday Night contest at Fed Ex Stadium in Landover, Maryland.
On the game’s final play Hopkins actually pushed his 48-yard field goal attempt to the right, giving the Giants the win and Washington it’s second consecutive loss to start the 2021 season.
However, New York’s Dexter Lawrence was caught in the neutral zone at the snap of the ball, off sides was correctly called, and Hopkins’ second attempt from five yards closer was good, snatching the victory from the Giants (0-2) and giving it to Washington (1-1).
In this nail biter, the lead changed hands six times, three of which transpired in the game’s final quarter. Graham Gano’s field goals from 52 and 55 yards put the Giants ahead 26-20 with 4:50 remaining. Taylor Heinicke then connected with Ricky Seals-Jones in the deep-right corner of the end zone at the 4:33 mark giving Washington a 27-26 lead.
A Taylor Heinicke interception provided the Giants the ball deep in Washington territory and Gano again was good from 35 yards at 2:00 for a 29-27 New York lead.
Heinicke drove Washington 50 yards, completing six passes providing Hopkins the opportunity to hit the game-winning field goal.
Jonathan Allen was effective recording two sacks, three tackles for a loss, five solo tackles and three QB hits. Heinicke finished 34-46, 336 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. 11 of those receptions went to Terry McLaurin for 107 yards and one touchdown. Daniel Jones led New York completing 22 of 32 for 249 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions and his 95 rushing yards led both teams.