Jaxson Dart vs. Jalen Hurts: Why Giants rookie models quarterback play style after Eagles QB

Dart and Hurts are proponents of a bruising and biting run style, one that seems them inflict punishment on would-be tacklers when the opportunity presents itself.

Jaxson Dart vs. Jalen Hurts: Why Giants rookie models quarterback play style after Eagles QB originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There’s a new face under center at MetLife Stadium, and he’s quickly giving Giants fans something to get excited about.

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart has only two starts under his belt, but his dual-threat ability has already made an impression on supporters. The Ole Miss product was at the center of the Giants’ stunning Week 3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers. And though he’s already faced some adversity early on, Dart remains a promising figure in The City That Never Sleeps.

Dart’s game — marked by deep throws and powerful runs — recalls some of the league’s top young quarterbacks. His sturdy frame and physical running style draw the closest comparison to Philadelphia Eagles QB Jalen Hurts.

Dart and Hurts represent part of the NFL’s next generation of quarterbacks. Here’s a look at how the two stack up.

What did Jaxson Dart say about Jalen Hurts?

Dart praised Hurts for his play style while speaking with reporters on Oct. 7, also pointing out the similarities between their games.

“I think it’s a little bit of a cop-out because he just won the Super Bowl, but I love J. Hurts and what he does,” Dart said. “I feel like I’m very similar in my play style to him. I feel like we can do a lot of the same things.

“I’ve tried to model my game after him because of his versatility — being able to run and throw the ball, and just how strong he is in the pocket. That’s something I’ve had a lot of fun watching and studying about his play style.”

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Much like Hurts, Dart isn't necessarily known as sprinter. But he pairs a strong frame with above-average speed to wreak havoc on opposition defenses.

The duo's similarities aren't merely aesthetic, either. Dart is one of four quarterbacks in the Super Bowl era to record at least 50 rushing yards in each first two career starts. The other three: Randall Cunningham, Lamar Jackson and Hurts himself.

How Jaxson Dart models game after Jalen Hurts

Dart and Hurts are proponents of a bruising and biting run style, one that seems them inflict punishment on would-be tacklers when the opportunity presents itself.

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They're not completely identical; Hurts is known for his proficiency in short-yardage situations — a part of the game Dart hasn't yet had the time to master.

But in open-field, the Giants signal-caller and Eagles passer eerily resemble one another.

Dart isn't the only one who thinks so. Lane Kiffin, who coached Dart at Ole Miss and Hurts at Alabama, agrees.

"There is a lot of similarities there," Kiffin said of Dart and Hurts during a Sept. 28 appearance on NFL on ESPN. "The way that they play and run with the ball and their passion for it." 

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Category: Football