1. Controlling the Clock
Last week, the Dallas Cowboys held the ball for 34:14 compared to the Giant’s 25:46. This isn’t a new trend. According to TeamRankings.com, the Giants finished fourth worst (28:08) in average time of possession last season. Additionally, 29.5 percent of the team’s offensive drives resulted in three-and-outs, the third worst in the NFL.
So what’s the big deal?
Controlling the clock means controlling the pace. It allows the offense to get into a rhythm and forces the opposing team to make adjustments. Obviously, it starts up front. Whether its shuffling the offensive line or implementing an extra blocker, the line play needs to improve. If the front unit can open lanes in the running game and keep the clock moving, it will go a long way in producing team success.