Odell Beckham made his presence known against the Eagles on Sunday, in good ways and bad.
The New York Giants’ offensive struggles have been well-documented, with just 13 points over their first two games as wide receiver Odell Beckham has been operating at less than full strength with an ankle injury. Three quarters into Sunday’s game against the Philadelphia Eagles were not any better, with zero points scored.
But as a fourth quarter rally started for the Giants, Beckham took center stage. A 10-yard touchdown catch from Eli Manning early in the final period got the team onto the scoreboard finally, but Beckham went more than a little awry with his touchdown celebration.
Wild. pic.twitter.com/KjAhoHuCYv
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 24, 2017
Yep Beckham lifted his leg, like a dog would to do some of his business and drew a 15-yard penalty. As expected, Twitter had some reaction to Beckham’s display.
Did Beckham just, um, lift his leg?
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) September 24, 2017
So, to review: Giants have scored TWO touchdowns this season and after BOTH, the player who scored is penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct.
— Bob Glauber (@BobGlauber) September 24, 2017
Beckham’s second touchdown, on a great catch, tied the game at 14 just a couple minutes later.
We are not worthy, @OBJ_3
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 24, 2017
(via @Giants)pic.twitter.com/qPFBkUcsOv
This time around, Beckham’s touchdown celebration was far more subdued and without any further incident or attention from the referees.
OBJ’s celebration after his 2nd TD. pic.twitter.com/jhzHjRsCM1
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 24, 2017
Beckham appeared to be as healthy as he’s been since being injured over a month ago on Sunday, with nine receptions for 79 yards and his two touchdowns as the fourth quarter winds down. Unfortunately he can’t pass protect for Manning and upgrade that situation at all, but at or near full strength OBJ is an obvious difference maker that can help turn around the Giants’ offense going forward.
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They key for Beckham, as always, is for him to avoid being a distraction on or off the field so his talent can take center stage. The NFL’s relaxed celebration rules did not protect him on his first trip to the end zone this season, but Beckham appeared (for the moment, at least) to learn his lesson.