Phil Simms believes the New York Giants remain the stronger team in the NFC East even without Jaxson Dart under center. Speaking on the Up & Adams Show, the former Giants quarterback was direct when asked about the comparison to Dallas.

Simms also pointed to Jameis Winston’s performance in last week’s win over the Washington Commanders as a key factor that has altered the picture.

“I mean, come on. What we’ve seen from the Cowboys so far, I would say yes,” Simms said when asked if the Dart-less Giants are better than Dallas. “What (Winston) did last week against the Washington Commanders changes everything. Now the coaches have more faith in him, and they really didn’t have a choice. They had to let him start throwing the ball.”

Winston responded by moving in the pocket and completing contested throws. Simms highlighted the accuracy on those plays, noting that the windows were tight but Winston did not hesitate.

“The window was small, but he didn’t care,” Simms said. “He threw it right through it perfectly, didn’t hit anybody except his guy.”

Simms also described Winston’s emotional approach as a potential strength once he finds rhythm.

“Jameis, he plays with emotion,” Simms said. “When he starts, when he gets hot—look out.”

He was particularly complimentary of the second half against Washington, citing Winston’s movement and throwing as reasons for optimism.

"And I thought his movement, his throwing, everything about him in the second half against the Commanders—man, he’s got to feel good," Simms said. "And, you know, I haven’t read any articles in the papers or the radio or anything. You know, so, you know you’re playing good quarterback when nobody’s crying about certain things."

The Giants enter Sunday’s matchup with the New Orleans Saints with Winston as the starter, and Simms’ comments offer a clear endorsement of both Winston’s recent play and the team’s standing relative to Dallas while Dart recovers.