“I’m Wayne.” Gallman has solid performance with Saquon Barkley out

With star running back Saquon Barkley out, an enormous question mark loomed over the New York Giants offense this week. How would the run game perform without its stud, and instead with third-year back Wayne Gallman Jr. taking the lead. After a 24-3 victory over the Redskins, that question was answered.

Gallman had a career day in his first start of the 2019 season. He finished with a career best 118 yards from scrimmage (63 rushing, 55 receiving) and two touchdowns on 24 touches. Barkley predicted it.

“I don’t know why he does some of the things he does,” said Gallman about Barkley’s tweet, “He told me when I was getting taped. I was like, ‘bro, why would you do that?’, so I was like now I’ve got to show up.”

Barkley wasn’t the only one giving his Gallman love. Head coach Pat Shurmur was quick to praise the young back for his ability to step in and perform.

“I think he did a hell of a job,” said Shurmur, “Everybody out there had a few bad plays, but he stepped in with a heavy load and did a really nice job. I’m pleased with what he did.”

Rookie quarterback Daniel Jones also provided insight on Gallman’s stellar performance.

“Wayne had a great game. We had a lot of confidence in him, and I think he’s a really good player,” said Jones, “I don’t think anyone was surprised by how he played. But certainly, he was a huge piece of this win today.”

Gallman caught a 6-yard pass from Jones for the Giants first touchdown. He scored their second one on a 1-yard run. He had a long run of 22 yards and a long reception of 21 yards.

“I was comfortable from the first snap. You know I’ve been waiting for this moment a long time and just been ready for it,” said Gallman. “Just been waiting a long time for it and I wasn’t about to let it get away from me.”

Most importantly he wanted everyone to know Barkley’s not the only one who can help the Giants win football games.

“I was going to show everybody that even though [Saquon Barkley] is out, I’m Wayne, and I can do whatever it takes to win.”