5 Burning Questions
By author
1) Running Game– Seems I am focused on this element of the Giants offense and defense every week. And that is because the question has been far from answered. The New England Patriot “law firm” of BenJarvus Green –Ellis will take his 4.2 yards per carry and attempt to improve on that against a Giants run defense that ranks 27th in the league. Faced with a
potentially ferocious pass rush and a less than stellar offensive line, the Patriots will try to establish the run early. On the other side of the ball, the Giants come into the game with the 30th run offense and a depleted stable of backs. With the Giants offensive line a big question mark and no Ahmad Bradshaw, will this be the coming out party for Da’Rel Scott, their 7th pick (221st overall) in the 2011 draft who has yet to get a carry in the regular season? Scott has seen the Patriots before, scampering for 65 yard touchdown off a faked punt in the preseason. Scott boasts explosive speed (4.34) and has a sturdy frame to be a more than useful NFL back. Although the Patriots are 7th ranked in run defense, I suggest that may be, at least in part, a result of the ease teams have found it to pass. Memo to Da’Rel: Should you get some reps at halfback hang onto the ball and know your blitz assignments. Nothing will take you off the field faster than failure to execute those two responsibilities.
2) Win in New England -A return to Gillette Stadium may be just what the Patriots need to get shake the cob webs out following a dismal performance last week against a revitalized Pittsburgh squad. The Pats have won 20 in a row there in the regular season, and 31 straight with Brady under center. Obviously, against a team as confident as the Patriots are at home, the Giants must not turnover the ball. Tom Terrific is even more terrific when performing in front of the home crowd and the Giants simply cannot give him more opportunities than normal. Professional football is so much about the battle of the wills; the team that imposes their will upon the other, typically is the victor. This will be similar to a heavyweight fight and the Giants must score a knockout to prevail.