That first half very much looked like a matchup of winless teams. After an ugly 30 minutes, the Chiefs head to the locker room with a 9-6 lead.
The Giants’ offense looks nothing like the aerial assault from last week in Dallas. Quarterback Russell Wilson has completed just 7-of-13 passes for 39 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions. Star wide receiver Malik Nabers doesn’t have a catch on three targets.
The lone offensive bright spot has been rookie running back Cam Skattebo, who has pin-balled his way to 39 yards on six carries. Skattebo scored on a 13-yard touchdown run, but the extra point was blocked because kicker Graham Gano was scratched after warmups with a groin injury and punter Jamie Gillan’s PAT attempt was low. This is the second time in two seasons that a Gano injury has left the Giants without a kicker. Skattebo will carry the load in the second half because running back Tyrone Tracy left with a right shoulder injury.
The Giants’ defense has prevented Kansas City’s offense from finding any rhythm. The Chiefs were forced to settle for three field goals, including a 28-yarder as the second quarter ended after a 52-yard pass interference penalty on cornerback Dru Phillips.
Not having a field goal kicker could loom large in the second half of this defensive struggle.