It was over when ...
Lions wideout Shaun McDonald failed to make a play on two straight possessions to close out the game. With Detroit down 16-10, Jon Kitna threw a deep jump ball to McDonald with just over two minutes left, but defensive back James Butler won the battle for the ball and snatched the interception. The Lions then forced a three-and-out and got the ball back with 1:25 remaining. After picking up a first down, Kitna went back to McDonald and the ball slipped through his hands and went into the waiting arms of Giants cornerback Sam Madison for the pick.

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Giants receiver Sinorice Moss had a career-high 46 yards receiving against the Lions.

Game balls
Giants defensive end Michael Strahan had one of his marquee games just three days before his 36th birthday. His three sacks and six tackles were more than enough for him to get the defensive game ball. On the other side, quarterback Eli Manning had a steady, if not spectacular, showing. He completed 29 of 38 passes for 283 yards and a touchdown.

Key stat
The Giants controlled the time of possession and that allowed them to keep the Lions' explosive passing attack off the field. New York had the ball for more than 35 minutes, helping the Giants salt away the victory.

Noteworthy
A series of injuries marred this otherwise entertaining game. Giants linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka broke his fibula on the second play and did not return. Giants running back Brandon Jacobs left the game in the second half with a hamstring injury. The Lions lost Idrees Bashir and Travis Fisher, two special teams aces. ... A week after rushing for minus-19 yards the Lions did better -- but only slightly -- accumulating 25 yards on the ground.