The inconsistency endured by the Giants this season cannot be attributed to the loss of fan-favorite tight end Kevin Boss to free agency.
His replacement, Jake Ballard, has proven to be more than capable, and yesterday the second-year player out of Ohio State was a big part of a resurgent passing attack that helped the 4-2 Giants knock off the Bills 27-24 in front of 79,243 fans at MetLife Stadium.
Ballard recorded career highs in receptions (five) and receiving yards (81), proving to be just as reliable a target for Eli Manning as Boss once was. He caught all five of the passes thrown to him.
PHOTOS: GIANTS BEAT BILLS, 27-24
“It means the world,” Ballard said. “Everybody said this year we need to get a tight end in here and wanted me out pretty much. ‘Oh, he’s a big, slow, blocking tight end. He’s not gonna catch any passes.’ I’m just trying to prove them wrong week to week and play with a chip on my shoulder.”
Those Ballard is proving wrong include some of his teammates.
“I’m gonna put Brandon Jacobs out there little bit,” Ballard said. “Last game [versus the Seahawks], he came up to me after I scored that touchdown and [said], ‘I’ll be honest, I thought we needed a tight end, but you’re proving me wrong week to week. Keep doing it.’ ”
Ballard nearly scored his third touchdown of the season on his second reception yesterday, a 24-yard play that set up Ahmad Bradshaw’s first 1-yard touchdown run.
“He doesn’t have the great speed but he just has a great feel for what to do,” Manning said. “He’s catching the ball well and he’s playing smart football.”
Ballard’s previous career highs were three receptions in Weeks 4 and 5, and 72 yards, which he racked up last week. He said his improvement stems from being more comfortable in his role and by “doing what Eli expects you to do.”
The quarterback clearly as confidence in his new tight end, who is building a reputation for gaining yards after contact.
“I used to love watching [Jeremy] Shockey when he first got into the league, and he was running over guys,” Ballard said. “That’s what I want to be like. I’m 6-6, 275. I should be running over guys and not be easy to tackle.”
dtomasino@nypost.com