The Giants rolled over the Colts in Week 17, winning 38-10 to secure a playoff berth. However, one of New York’s defining early plays has been the subject of controversy. After quarterback Nick Foles was fired to end a drive in Indianapolis in the final minute of the second quarter, Giants rookie Kayvon Thibodeaux celebrated while lying on the floor next to Foles and pretending to make snow angels while Foles wriggled out in pain with a rib injury. Moments later, after Foles was taken away, Thibodeaux was seen partying again, this time imitating Foles “going to sleep”.
Here’s a look at Thibodeaux’s second celebration:
Originally ruled doubtful, Foles was ruled out for the remainder of Sunday’s competition at half-time. The veteran QB (8-13, 81 yards, 1 INT before retiring) made his second start for the Colts after replacing Matt Ryan a week earlier. Sophomore backup Sam Ehlinger, who made two starts in place of Ryan earlier this season, took over from under center Indy and is now scheduled to start against the Texans in Week 18, with Ryan serving as the No. 2.
Thibodeaux downplayed the post-game ordeal, deny reporters that he was celebrating despite knowing Foles was injured: “When I realized he was injured, we started getting up,” he said. “When you’re having a party, you don’t look at who’s doing what. But I hope he gets well and I hope he’s fine.”
Colts players and coaches weren’t quick to write it off. Center Ryan Kelly, for example, didn’t mince his words dealing with the incident after the game: “Hopefully [Thibodeaux’s] become teammates — maybe one day he’ll find out that injuries happen in this league, [and] you never want that to happen to the guy you’re up against. That just sucks.”
Colt’s caretaker manager Jeff Saturday It was even harder on Mondaycalled Thibodeaux and his celebration “distasteful” and “garbage” while lamenting the fact his own offensive linemen failed to stand up for Foles after the game.
Drafted 5th overall this year, Thibodeaux was a key member of the Giants’ defensive line and has his third sack in five games thanks to the Foles takedown. But his double celebration of the Sunday sack was an odd choice, especially considering how much attention the NFL has been paying to player safety — and particularly QBs’ health in relation to possible head injuries — lately.
Thibodeaux’ arm clearly touched Foles at least six times while he was on the ground pretending to make snow angels, suggesting the pass rusher knew the QB was still down and he could be seen too , glancing at Foles between celebrations. He was not penalized for his actions during the game, which secured New York a place in the playoffs.