The New York Giants dropped to 5-3-1 after losing 24-21 to the Washington Commanders on Thursday Night Football at MetLife Stadium. A few days later, the NFL announced fines related to New York’s previous game: its Week 9 win over the Philadelphia Eagles, which ended the Giants’ 13-year losing streak in Philadelphia.
The NFL and the NFL Players Association establish rules for game-related violations that may lead to discipline. The league says these rules are intended “to protect players from unnecessary risk and preserve competitive balance and game integrity.”
## Kayvon Thibodeaux Among Players Fined
With two minutes left in the second quarter against Philadelphia, the Giants stopped running back Saquon Barkley on fourth down. No flag was thrown, but New York edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux was fined $11,941 for taunting after the play. He was the only Giants player fined in the game.
Three Eagles players also received fines. Jeremiah Trotter was fined $6,428 for tripping on the game’s opening play, while Andrew Mukuba received a $9,041 fine for a hit on a defenseless player. In the third quarter, linebacker Zack Baun was fined $6,750 for illegal use of the helmet.
The players could appeal their fines. Appeals are heard by former NFL players Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster or Jordy Nelson, who are jointly appointed and paid by the NFL and NFLPA. Their decisions are final and binding.
## Giants Remain First in the NFC East
Despite the loss to Washington, the Giants remained atop the NFC East. New York held a two-game lead over the Commanders, who improved to 3-5-1 and moved into third place. Washington’s victory also gave the team a head-to-head tiebreaker over the Giants.
The Dallas Cowboys were 4-5 and in second place ahead of their game against the 7-1 San Francisco 49ers. A Dallas win would bring the Cowboys to 5-5, while a loss would drop them to 4-6 and leave them in second place.
