Giants-Bills Preseason Opener: Russell Wilson, Rookie Jaxson Dart Shine in Big Blue Victory
The New York Giants kicked off their NFL preseason 2025 with a statement, traveling to Highmark Stadium and securing a 34-25 victory over the Buffalo Bills. While the final score of a preseason game is often secondary, this contest provided a crucial first look at the Giants’ new-look offense led by veteran quarterback Russell Wilson and their exciting rookie signal-caller, Jaxson Dart. For the Bills, the game offered a chance for their young talent to impress and for backup quarterbacks to compete for a roster spot.
Wilson’s Calm Debut, Dart’s Electric Spark
All eyes were on the Giants’ quarterback room, and for good reason. Russell Wilson, the marquee offseason acquisition, started the game and looked composed and efficient. He led the Giants on a scoring drive in his lone series, completing six of seven passes for 28 yards. While his stat line was modest, his command of the offense and quick decision-making were exactly what Giants fans hoped to see.
But the real buzz surrounded rookie Jaxson Dart, the Giants’ first-round pick. In his much-anticipated NFL debut, Dart electrified the field, showcasing both his arm talent and athleticism. He finished the day completing 12 of 19 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown. The highlight was a beautiful 29-yard dime to wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey for his first career preseason touchdown. Dart’s mobility was also on full display with three carries for 24 yards, including a nimble 19-yard scramble. His performance against the Bills’ defense has fueled optimism that the future is bright for Big Blue’s quarterback position.
Giants’ Defensive Front Impresses
Beyond the quarterback competition, the Giants’ defense also made a strong impression, particularly their pass rush. Despite playing without All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, the Giants’ defensive line—featuring newcomers and seasoned veterans—consistently pressured Buffalo’s quarterbacks. Rookie Abdul Carter, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, was a standout in his limited snaps. Carter generated pressure on both the edge and the interior, demonstrating why the Giants invested a premium pick in the talented linebacker. This defensive showing bodes well for a team looking to turn things around in the NFC East.
Bills’ Backup QBs and Standouts
The Bills, meanwhile, rested franchise quarterback Josh Allen. Their backup quarterbacks, Mitchell Trubisky and Mike White, took turns leading the offense. Trubisky was effective in the first half, connecting with tight end Dawson Knox for a touchdown and a big 58-yard pass to wide receiver Tyrell Shavers. White then took over in the second half, throwing for two touchdowns and showing good command of the offense, particularly on a crucial fourth-down play where he found wide receiver KJ Hamler for a 39-yard score.
A quirky but memorable moment came from running back Ray Davis, who successfully drilled an extra-point attempt after the team’s starting kicker was unavailable. Coach Sean McDermott explained the move was a pre-planned contingency, adding a unique twist to the preseason opener.
Highmark Stadium’s Farewell
This game marked the final preseason contest to be played at the current Highmark Stadium, as the Bills prepare to move into their state-of-the-art new stadium next season. The historic venue, which has been the home of the Buffalo Bills since 1973, provided a fitting backdrop for the start of the 2025 NFL season for both teams.
In the end, the Giants’ victory was a promising start. The performances of Wilson and Dart, combined with a relentless pass rush, give Giants fans plenty to be excited about as they head into the new season. For the Bills, the game provided valuable reps for young players and a clearer picture of their depth chart battles.
