Five Takeaways from New York Giants’ Win

Rushing Takeaways

The Giants seem to have a problem running the football. Their “starting” running back, Rashad Jennings, had 27 yards on 13 carriers. The back up, who should just be given the starting role, had a sightly better performance, picking up 42 yards on 14 attempts. Shane Vereen also had three receptions for 24 yards. Both backs had unimpressive showings, and put up numbers the likes of Peyton Hillis, Reuben Droughns, or Andre Brown might even scoff at.  While each has shown the capacity to pick up yards late in games, an anemic rushing attack does not bode well for a vaunted passing attack. Offensive line issues, play calling, or scheme may be the cause of the running game. Or, the backs on the roster aren’t that good.

When the Giants were at their best, winning Super Bowls and making the playoffs, they could run the ball. Not just at the end of games, but throughout; allowing Manning to push the ball down the field and stretch the defense. Perhaps there is a correlation between the lack of big plays and the unsteady rushing game.

The Giants are undefeated through two weeks, which is the biggest of the takeaways. But looking ahead, any success the Giants hope to have must come about through a balanced offensive attack. Time will tell if this offense can prove to be balanced or a reiteration of the past few seasons. Last season, four teams had two rushers eclipse 600 yards; all four made the playoffs. Super Bowl participants Denver and Carolina featured two; as did Cincinnati and Green Bay. A steady running game is paramount in the NFL. For the Giants to have success, they can not deviate from this.