New York Giants rookie cornerback Andru Phillips was one of the few bright spots in a 20-17 overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers in Munich, Germany this past Sunday.
If you were to glance at the box score, Phillips accounted for just four tackles and nothing more but his impact goes well beyond the stats.
The first-year starter was targeted a team-high five times and while he allowed three receptions, they went for just six yards. He was also credited with a game-high four stops.
For his troubles, Phillips earned the team’s highest grade in Week 10 and was subsequently named Pro Football Focus’ Rookie of the Week.
ROOKIE OF THE WEEK: CB Andru Phillips, New York Giants
Phillips earned an 88.2 PFF grade in Munich on Sunday, with just 6 yards allowed from five targets and 22 snaps in coverage. He also registered four defensive stops in the game.
Through 10 weeks, Phillips is the second-highest-graded Giants player (84.6) behind only nose tackle Dexter Lawrence (89.8). He’s also the second-highest-graded cornerback in all of football behind Jalen Ramsey (85.3) of the Miami Dolphins.
If Phillips can keep up this level of production throughout the remainder of the season, do not be surprised if he earns a Pro Bowl honor and is considered for Defensive Rookie of the Year.