Giants vs. Buccaneers: 5 Things We Learned

Nov 8, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) misses the ball as New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (41) defends during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. New York Giants defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 32-18. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

1. The Giants Defense Forces Turnovers

We knew this coming in, but the defense’s ability to consistently force turnovers is what’s kept the Giants in a game where their offense struggled to move the ball. Sure, the conditions were slippery Sunday, but a lot of teams play in poor weather and don’t lose three fumbles. In fact, the Giants didn’t lose any, but they recovered three. And that phenomenal turnover ratio has gone from a pleasant surprise to an expectation over the course of nine weeks.

I wouldn’t say it’s a big issue that they didn’t intercept a seemingly turnover prone Jameis Winston—Winston hasn’t been picked off since Week 4. And in the rain, the Bucs were spreading the ball around instead of taking chances in tight coverage.

Three turnovers is plenty, no matter how the Giants forced them. It was a nice bounce back performance for a defense that so badly needed a turnaround.

Next: Jason Pierre-Paul Will Make An Impact