Jason Pierre-Paul Makes Minimal Impact In Giants Victory

The biggest storyline going into yesterday’s battle between the Giants and the Buccaneers was the return of Jason Pierre-Paul. With a new left handed stance and a cast over his damaged hand that looks like an oven mitt, Pierre-Paul finally made it back on the field. The Giants won in his return, yet Pierre-Paul’s impact was minimal.

Pierre-Paul had two tackles and rushed Buccaneers QB, Jameis Winston a couple times. The Giants went without a single sack in this game. Though an important side note is that Eli Manning suffered no sacks either. Pierre-Paul must be given credit. He is clearly in football shape, he played most of the game.

In fairness to Pierre-Paul he played better than I expected him too. I figured he would be fatigued much easier and his high motor was a testament to his work ethic. He also appeared to be much more comfortable in his new stance than I expected.

Another important thing to think about is the lack of production from the defensive line as a whole. The Giants defense has had the fewest sacks in the NFL without Pierre-Paul. With no other pass rushers stepping up, it is unrealistic to expect much from Pierre-Paul.

Next: Giants Defeat Buccaneers 32-18 With A Powerful Statement

The Giants must hope to get more out of their pass rush next week against the New England Patriots. The Giants have a track record of taking down the high-flying Patriots but they have done it with pass rush. Tom Brady may be the greatest quarterback of all time, if you don’t make him uncomfortable he will shred you apart.

Pierre-Paul now has one game under his belt. It was encouraging to see him play as many snaps as he did. It was also exciting to see that he could still fire off the line of scrimmage with some explosion. Hopefully in the weeks to come it translates to quarterback sacks.