Meggett Does Encore, So Do Giants, 20-6

Dave Meggett burned the Washington Redskins with a halfback option pass for a touchdown for the second time this season as the New York Giants responded to some subtle prodding from Coach Dan Reeves and snapped a two-game losing streak with a 20-6 victory Sunday.

Reeves denied sending a message to the Giants (6-3) by releasing punter Sean Landeta and linebacker Steve DeOssie last week. But the team did seem more motivated in beating the Redskins (2-7) for the second time this season, even though the Giants were outgained, 325-262.

The Redskins, whose last 2-7 start was 30 years ago, were beaten, 41-7, in their first meeting with the Giants. In that game, the Giants had a 415-304 yardage advantage.

The constant in both games was Meggett throwing for a touchdown. The pass Sunday, with the Giants ahead 7-0, was perfect. Chris Calloway caught it in the right corner of the end zone, just out of the reach of cornerback Darrell Green. In the Giants’ first victory, Meggett connected with Mike Sherrard on a 42-yard touchdown option pass play on what appeared to be a sweep left. Meggett is now two of two for 63 yards and two touchdowns. Simms has thrown for nine touchdowns this season in 220 passes.

The Giants, who scored the first four times they had the ball in their 41-7 victory over Washington on Oct. 10, took the opening kickoff and went 80 yards in 12 plays with Rodney Hampton, playing for the first time since Oct. 10, diving in.