New York Giants who must step up their game
By Eric Mollo
Aug 3, 2014; Canton, OH, USA; New York Giants defensive tackle Justin Pugh (67) defends against Buffalo Bills linebacker Brandon Spikes (51) in the 2014 Hall of Fame game at Fawcett Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Justin Pugh – OG
I like kicking Justin Pugh in at left guard, as he’s proven through his brief Giants career this position is a good fit for his skill set. But what he needs to prove this season is not only that he can man the left guard position, but that his entire game has taken a step forward.
I have to think the Giants are hoping Pugh becomes a near-dominant offensive lineman and that he can show that this preseason. Why? Not only because it would vastly improve a run game that struggled last season. But also, and maybe more importantly, it gives the Giants more depth should they need to move Pugh out to left tackle.
I know this is an unlikely scenario, but it’s important. Should Ereck Flowers struggle to start the year, or get injured, the Giants really don’t have any other options to man the tackle positions. They could kick Marshall Newhouse to the left side, or give Emmett Cleary a try, but all that shows is they’re incredibly thin at that position.
Should Pugh show he can be a dominant force on the line, he gives the Giants some security if Flowers struggles. The team hopes this isn’t the case, but they know to win in the NFL, teams need depth. Pugh would provide more security at the tackle position should he take a step forward this preseason.
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