Dru Phillips, a comeback cornerback on this day, was in a back corner of the locker room, talking about so many positive things to come out of the game he just played, which is like an alternative universe in Giants-land. 

There was no doubt Jaxson Dart was going to need plenty of help if he was to have a shot at winning in his NFL starting debut. Phillips, after a rough game last week, did everything possible to give aid and comfort to the rookie, diving for an interception off Justin Herbert that was returned 56 yards, all the way down to the Chargers 3-yard line. Two snaps later, Dart tucked a shovel pass to tight end Theo Johnson for a touchdown and the Giants had expanded their lead. 

“It’s everything,” Phillips said. “Not that the kid needs too much help …” 

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Just then, Dart, wearing only a blue towel and shower shoes, interrupted his teammate. He put a sweaty bear hug on Phillips, leaning into his ear to whisper, “Way to go, buddy,” and then released the hug and ambled away.