Giants vs Redskins: Standout GMEN offensive PFF grades
In case you missed it, last week I used Pro Football Focus grades to break down the Giants vs Texans game. I also explained a bit about PFF’s system, so if you missed it, I definitely recommend checking out last week’s post.
Now, lets take a look at some of the standout offensive PFF grades for the Giants from their 45-14 beat down of the Washington Redskins last Thursday.
Westsiiiiiiiiiiide Eli – Eli Manning is beginning to really show a better understanding and mastery of Ben McAdoo’s version of the west coast offense, and it was on full display against the Redskins. Not surprisingly, Eli had the highest overall grade from PFF on the offensive side of the ball at 3.4. Eli received high marks for his passing, which shouldn’t be surprising considering his 300 yards, 4 TD, 1 INT (and a bogus one in my opinion) effort. I do have one bone to pick with PFF; however, in them giving Eli a negative rushing grade (-0.1). Didn’t they see those wheels he showcased on his touchdown scramble?!
Welcome to the Larry Donnell show – Our own Anthony Valerio did a great job breaking down Donnell’s dominating performance on Thursday, and PFF was right there in his praise, giving Donnell a 2.5 overall grade. Considering his 7 reception, 54 yards, 3 touchdown performance, I was a bit surprised this grade wasn’t even a bit higher. At 6’6, 265lbs, Donnell has quickly established himself as Eli’s favorite redzone and third down target, something the Giants offense sorely lacked last season.
Offensive line dominance continues – The Giants offensive line continued their excellent play from last Sunday against the Texans right into this match-up with the Redskins. William Beatty, Weston Richburg, and Justin Pugh all received a 3.3 overall grade.
Rookie, Weston Richburg, continues to look more and more comfortable at guard and is making Jerry Reese look good for selecting him in the second round. Richburg reminds me of an old school lineman and I think he will make Giants fans very happy for years to come.
Second year man, Justin Pugh, also is making Jerry Reese look smart for taking him in the first round last season. I have been really surprised by Pugh’s quick development, but all the snaps he received last year have really helped accelerate his growth into one of the better right tackles in the league. Pugh’s 3.9 run block grade was the highest grade given to any Giants player in an area. Pugh’s fantastic run blocking is why many believe he could be an All Pro if the Giants ever move him to guard. Pugh does need to work on his pass blocking, as his -0.9 grade in that area was the lowest in any area for a Giants starting offensive linemen.
Will Beatty, who had a very bad year after being handed a five year, 38.75 million contract before last season, seems to bouncing back in a big way. Giants’ fans got on Beatty for his poor performance last season, and rightfully so, but now he is showing why the Giants gave him that big contract. With a season overall grade of 10.1, Beatty is PFF’s #1 ranked offensive tackle in the NFL.
Final Thoughts
Considering the Giants put up 45 points against the Redskins on Thursday, I don’t think it’s fair to point out any negative players this week. The Giants offense is starting to really take shape. I still believe it all starts up front, if the offensive line can continue their stout play the sky is the limit for this offense. Eli is beginning to get more comfortable and Larry Donnell gives him a big redzone threat that he hasn’t had in a couple of seasons. Despite their slow start, the Giants total team offense has the 6th highest PFF grade (15.5). Their numbers should continue to skyrocket as the Atlanta Falcons Swiss cheese defense comes to town on Sunday.