Part 2/9:
Most memorable—and haunting—was a pivotal third-and-five play that encapsulated the Giants’ downfall. Up by a comfortable lead, the Giants faced a crucial decision: run the ball and run down the clock or attempt a pass to potentially extend their lead further. Instead, on this critical third down, the team chose to throw, resulting in an interception that shifted the momentum entirely.
Tiki Barber emphasizes that this single decision was the catalyst for the disastrous final quarter. Had they simply run the ball again, they could have forced Denver to burn its last timeout, making them work harder to come back. Instead, the turnover gifted Denver renewed life, and the Broncos capitalized with an immediate touchdown and subsequent successful two-point conversion, stealing the lead.