Stuck behind two iron men in the Giants secondary, Dane Belton finally had a chance to show he still is a magnet to the football.
Belton capitalized on his most extensive action of the season Sunday by grabbing two interceptions and recovering a fumble as one of the biggest difference-makers on the field in a 26-25 loss to the Rams.
The second-year safety has played about half as much as he did as a rookie because Xavier McKinney has logged every defensive snap this season and Jason Pinnock missed just six of 1,001 snaps over the first 15 games.
“It has been tough, knowing that I can play at this level … and I can go out there and help the team,” Belton said. “It’s nothing against those guys or the coaches or anything. It’s just the opportunity [hasn’t been there]. At the same time, they are going to put the best game plan out there.”
Pinnock did not return to the game after a first-quarter foot injury.
He was in a walking boot and is headed for a MRI exam on Monday.
“I kept dapping him up,” said Pinnock, who returned to the sideline. “He got the ball three times. He made the best of his opportunity, and I’m proud of him.”
Belton barged through an open door with three takeaways that led to six points.
He also temporarily kept a touchdown off the board by chasing down Puka Nacua at the end of an 80-yard catch-and run created by Adoree’ Jackson’s missed tackle, but the Rams still finished the drive in the end zone — and soured Belton’s career-best performance with the victory.
“That’s what I’m really thinking about,” Belton said. “It would’ve been awesome to finish it out with a win, having a day. It’s good to have good player stats, but a win is what we’re looking for.”
Several teammates made a point of stopping by Belton’s locker after the game to recognize his effort.
Belton played just 185 defensive snaps over the first 15 games, primarily as a third safety in sub packages.
“I think he deserves NFC Player of the Week,” linebacker Isaiah Simmons said. “Dane had a phenomenal game.”
The Giants did not have another true safety active after Pinnock’s injury.
Versatile defensive back Nick McCloud can play safety in a pinch but he actually started at outside cornerback because rookie Deonte Banks (shoulder) was inactive and the Giants didn’t want to tinker with Cor’Dale Flott by moving him out of the slot.
“I want to stay ready no matter what,” Belton said. “It is tough mentally, but that’s what we do as professionals. Practice hard, work on the things you need to work on, and when your opportunity comes just advantage of it.”
How does Belton explain his nose for the ball?
He had two interceptions and two fumble recoveries last season when his role expanded during McKinney’s eight-game absence.
“Maybe it’s a mix of some things,” Belton said. “Sometimes you just get lucky, sometimes it’s about the film study and the coaches letting you know little tips throughout the week. Then you just have to apply it to the field — and catch the ball.”