Less than six minutes into game, the Giants forced Minnesota to punt out of their own end zone. Excellent field position was assured – or should have been. Instead, Harris muffed the punt and the Vikings recovered.
The fumble was the first indication that the Giants had not learned the lessons of the previous week. After that, we were assured that it would be a long, painful game.
Penalties
As happened against the Redskins, the Giants racked up the penalties, early and often. By halftime, it was reported on ESPN that they had already accrued five penalties for 58 yards; putting them on a track similar to the week before.