With Bradshaw out, Jacobs gets 22 touches
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs is alone as he runs into the end zone for a touchdown in the third quarter against the New York Giants. (Nov. 6, 2011) Credit: AP
FOXBORO, Mass. -- Brandon Jacobs finally got his moment in the spotlight. And he didn't disappoint.
In the absence of go-to running back Ahmad Bradshaw, Jacobs proved he can be trusted to carry the load. He rushed for 72 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries and caught four passes for 28 yards Sunday to help the Giants to a 24-20 victory over the New England Patriots.
"He played really well," coach Tom Coughlin said. "He was powerful and there wasn't any East Coast-West Coast or any thoughts of that today. He just dropped his shoulder and ran, and he pounded his way to some really nice runs."
Though pleased with his performance, Jacobs said he could have done more.
"I wish I could have played better," he said. "I may have left some yards out on the field. But no one's perfect. I did what they asked me to do.
"I've been a starting back here for a while, and it's nothing new for me. It wasn't nerve-wracking or anything like that. The biggest thing for me is not letting my teammates down. And that's all I had on my shoulders, that's all I thought about. And I was ready."
Bradshaw's absence certainly was felt, but the Giants managed to build a 111-106 advantage in rushing yards over the Patriots, thanks in large part to Jacobs and backups D.J. Ware and Da'Rel Scott.
"We work together as backs," Jacobs said. "We know what Ahmad brings to the table; we definitely need that back. Danny got in and ran hard, played hard, blocked very well, and I just took what they gave me and made the best of it."
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