Giants Win: What Went Right

Aug 3, 2014; Canton, OH, USA; New York Giants running back Andre Williams (44) runs the ball during the second quarter of the 2014 Pro Football Hall of Fame game against the New York Giants at Fawcett Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

The Giants Established a Run Game

The Giants have not rushed for 100 yards all season. Their 92 yards today did not dominate the Bills but it was good enough to keep the Bills guessing. Buffalo’s run defense was the best in the league coming into this game. 92 yards is not in any measure a great game on the ground. But when you consider how the Giants used their rushing attack to shorten their down and distance to go all game.

That strategy coupled with a short passing game really allowed the offense to move the ball very well against a top flight defense. Rashad Jennings led the Giants with 38 yards on 9 carries. Andre Williams added 35 yards on 11 carries while Shane Vereen added another 21 yards on his five touches.

The Giants committed to the run all game. The offensive line must be given credit for doing a nice job against an outstanding defensive front. The Giants used a heavy set several times, using rookie Bobby Hart as a tight tackle and it worked very well. Hart looked impressive, staying on his block to the second level on more then one play. The line looks to be clicking and should only get better as Ereck Flowers and Hart continue to develop and Will Beatty awaits to return from his injury.

Next: Efficient Offense