It only took two games for New York Giants interim head coach Mike Kafka to spark controversy with a late-game decision. The question centered on Kafka’s choice to go for a touchdown on fourth-and-goal from the 6-yard line with three minutes left, while the Giants were clinging to a three-point lead over the Detroit Lions.

The attempt fell short. Detroit’s Jake Bates then nailed a 59-yard field goal to force overtime, and the Giants ultimately fell 34-27.

Kafka defended his call after the game, insisting, “It was the right decision. I stand by it. We were trying to put ourselves up by 10 points.”

Supporters of the decision argue that Kafka took the approach most likely to secure a win, given a defense that has repeatedly struggled in critical moments. By attempting to establish a two-score lead late in the game, the Giants aimed to minimize risk.

“We wanted to be aggressive,” Kafka explained regarding the fourth-down play, where quarterback Jameis Winston was unable to connect with tight end Theo Johnson in the end zone. “Our goal was to create a two-score advantage.”

Some analytical models backed Kafka’s choice, while others suggested a more conservative route might have been preferable.

The Giants’ defensive struggles have also come under scrutiny. This marked the fifth time this season the team has lost a lead of more than ten points, and the third consecutive week they’ve failed to hold a fourth-quarter advantage.

Kafka emphasized that winning is a collective responsibility. “It’s a team effort. Players, coaches, staff—everyone needs to contribute. We have to keep improving, look for ways to create an edge, and that’s what I’m focused on. I’ll evaluate everything to find ways to win.”

He also expressed confidence in defensive coordinator Shane Bowen despite criticism. “I trust Shane and his staff,” Kafka said.

Whether that confidence holds up will likely be clearer after Monday’s review.