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The New York Giants opened their 2024 preseason slate by knocking off the Super Bowl-hopeful Detroit Lions, 14-3, on Thursday night at MetLife Stadium.
For the Giants, it was a well-rounded performance highlighted by strong offensive line play, stout defense, and a dazzling display courtesy of second-year running back Eric Gray.
With the depth behind presumed starter Devin Singletary still undetermined, Gray made the most of his opportunities and finished the game with a team-leading 98 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns.
The first of those scores came midway through the second quarterback when Gray took the handoff on a draw, went decisively North-South, and juked a Lions defender out of his shoes en route to the endzone.
Eric Gray to the HOUSE!
: FOX5 pic.twitter.com/WiJDanLkqt
— New York Giants (@Giants) August 9, 2024
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Gray also showcased his prowess through the air, beating a linebacker one-on-one before hauling in an impressive reception over his shoulder.
Tommy DeVito to Eric Gray!
— New York Giants (@Giants) August 9, 2024
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Later in the first half, Gray added a second score when he plunged into the endzone from one yard out thanks, in part, to excellent clear-out blocking from the offensive line, tight ends, and wide receivers.
“I just wanted to put my best foot forward,” Gray told reporters after the game. “Like I said, I just want to be Eric Gray; just be me. Last year, I kind of made football more than it is. It’s just football at the end of the day. Just being me.”
For his performance, Gray earns the first Giants Wire Player of the Game this season.