# Why Starting J.J. McCarthy Is Right for Giants, But Not

> Giants start J.J. McCarthy over Winston but face tough Texans test.
- Title: Why Starting J.J. McCarthy Is Right for Giants, But Not · SI
- Summary: Giants start J.J. McCarthy over Winston but face tough Texans test. Giants will start J.J. McCarthy against Texans after Winston's benching, but his first…
- Keywords: giants, jj mccarthy, jameis winston, nfl, texans, seahawks, matt nagy, malik nabers, israel likely, jackson dart, viking, 2026 season
- Source: SI — https://si.com/nfl/why-starting-jj-mccarthy-is-right-move-for-giants-and-why-it-isnt
- Published: 2026-10-21T20:13:35+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: giants, jj mccarthy, jameis winston, nfl, texans, seahawks, matt nagy, malik nabers, israel likely, jackson dart, viking, 2026 season
## Giants shake up QB plans
Giants start J.J. McCarthy at quarterback after Jameis Winston was benched in Sunday's loss to Saints.
## McCarthy's debut performance
McCarthy led Giants on three scoring drives in final frame after throwing interception on first possession.
## McCarthy's stats
McCarthy finished 11-for-21 for 243 yards, one touchdown, an interception, and a passer rating of 90.0.
## McCarthy's background
McCarthy, 23, was selected by Vikings with No. 10 pick in 2024 NFL draft but traded to Giants in late September.
## Why start McCarthy?
McCarthy's mobility gives coordinator Matt Nagy more run game opportunities and chemistry with Malik Nabers and Isaiah Likely.
## Trade deal details
Giants sent 2027 fifth-round pick to Vikings for McCarthy with another year on rookie contract.
## McCarthy's role
McCarthy has learned Nagy's system in less than a month but only in backup role with minimal first-team reps.
## Coach Callahan's view
Quarterbacks coach Brian Callahan feels McCarthy can operate a game plan but may need time to adjust.
## Harbaugh's confidence
Coach Harbaugh says McCarthy has the game plan down and will be ready for Week 7.
## Texans' strength
Texans have won two consecutive games after opening season 0, 4 and are strong Super Bowl contenders.
## Cam Ward's performance
Cam Ward threw for 170 yards and an interception against Texans while Titans scored only three points.
## Week 7 challenge
Giants face Texans in Week 7 on road with McCarthy making first start against strong defense.
## Harbaugh's decision
Harbaugh willing to take risk of starting McCarthy against Texans despite potential challenges.
## Key takeaway

Giants will start J.J. McCarthy against Texans after Winston's benching, but his first start may be risky against a strong Houston team.