New York Giants: Five Takeaways From Week 1

Jun 16, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants tackle Ereck Flowers (76) takes part in practice during minicamp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Ryan-USA TODAY Sports

4. Ereck Flowers Can Hold His Own

Many NFL analysts criticized the Giants choosing Ereck Flowers with the ninth overall pick. They claimed Flowers didn’t have the makings of some of the other plug and play lineman in the draft. Well I guess they were all wrong because Flowers is really impressing lately.

Flowers played at the top of his game despite suffering a minor ankle injury against the Dallas Cowboys. He also managed to remain cool and collected when being provoked by Cowboys’ defensive lineman Jeremy Mincey. He’s showing all the key characteristics that the Giants need for him to be their franchise left tackle.

It’s safe to say that Flowers is becoming the offensive lineman version of a breakout player. He protected Manning’s blind side with ease and remained calm in high intensity situations.

The Giants’ key to success is a healthy offensive line and that may be hindered by Flowers’ injury. If he isn’t at full speed it’s going to be a very rough season for Manning. He needs stability in order to be effective.

Next: The Running Game Is Key For A Playoff Run