Sunday was J.J. McCarthy’s day.

After winning his first start as a Giant in an overtime win in Houston and receiving a game ball from head coach John Harbaugh, McCarthy gave an impassioned speech in the locker room.

“I don’t got a whole lot to say, but I’m just so freaking blessed to be a part of this group,” McCarthy said. “I felt you guys all freaking day have my back, and you know I got yours the rest of the f–king way.

J.J. McCarthy was all smiles after leading the Giants to a big win as double digit road underdogs. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

“Hey, this is just the f–king beginning. This group is so talented, but the secret sauce is the s–t we just did out there. The resilience, the will to f–king finish no matter what it looks like. I f–king love you boys. Let’s keep it up.”

McCarthy went 20 of 28 in the 27-21 win with 252 yards and no touchdowns or interceptions as the Giants’ running backs did all the scoring for Big Blue.

The triumvirate of Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., and Devin Singletary were responsible for three touchdowns, with fellow quarterback Jameis Winston adding one of his own on a quarterback sneak at the goal line.

New York Giants quarterback J.J. McCarthy (18) looks to throw a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Houston Texans in Houston, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026. AP Photo/Eric Smith

McCarthy, whom the Giants traded for in September after Jaxson Dart’s season-ending injury, was named the starter following a Week 6 loss to the Saints, in which McCarthy played the fourth quarter and led the game with 243 passing yards, tying Eli Manning in 2012 for the most in a single fourth quarter in franchise history.

McCarthy was selected 10th overall by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft. McCarthy went 6-4 in 10 starts with the Vikings after missing his entire rookie season due to a torn right meniscus.

McCarthy and the Giants have their bye week in Week 8 before facing the Eagles in Philadelphia on Nov. 8.