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New York Giants Fans: Get Your Hopes Up

By Jesse Connor

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Nov 22, 2014; East Hartford, CT, USA; Connecticut Huskies wide receiver Geremy Davis (85) and his teammates warm up before the start of the game against the Cincinnati Bearcats at Rentschler Field. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

5. Special Teams was made a priority:

The signings of Dwayne Harris and Jonathan Casillas, and the draft choice of Geremy Davis showed emphasis to reinforce a unit that has been ultimately lackluster for years. Harris is both a return man and an outstanding gunner. Casillas makes tackles very frequently on specials and Davis comes in with early comparisons to David Tyree.

The Giants have not had a dangerous return man since the days of Chad Morton and Domenik Hixon. Dwayne Harris’ ability to move the ball up the field will go overlooked by the casual fan but any player that improves field position through the return game is a major asset. Not only will he help on returns but his history and skills as a gunner ( player “gunning” for the ball carrier on punts and kick-offs) is also an asset. He is a sound tackler for a wide receiver and his ability to close in on returners will not go un-noticed. The Giants have been lacking in special teams for a long time. This fast, athletic, special teamer was given a large contract for a reason. Jonathan Casillas will also be relied on to make tackles on the punt and kick-off teams. Limited return yardage for opposing teams falls under the category of hidden yards according to coach Tom Coughlin. Those hidden yards add up and when it comes to field position, every yard count. As for Geremy Davis, the Giants 6th round draft pick, he is expected to play a David Tyree role on special teams. Another guy who has been brought in to make tackles on coverage units. Its hard to remember Tyree for anything but his greatest play in super bowl history, but before he became a New York Giant hero he was a pro-bowl special teamer. Tyree made tackles, blocked punts, maintained his lane, and did everything else a special teamer is asked to do. Davis should be able to do all of those.

Next: NFC East: 3 Things We Know About Each Team

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