NY Giants: 10 biggest surprises through first 10 games

#2 Jason Garrett’s Offense

The Giants are currently tied with the Los Angeles Rams in total plays ran this season. And while the distribution favors the pass, 59 percent passing vs 41 percent rushing, Garrett is doing a much better job this year to even that split.

In 2019, the Giants had just 362 rushes all year, ahead of only the Washington Football Team and the Miami Dolphins, compared to 607 passes. When a team knows you’re going to throw, they’re ready for it.

Garrett’s even-keeled offense has improved the Giants run game, even without Saquon Barkley. It’s also increased the Giants’ passing completion percentage from 61.9 percent at the end of 2019 to 63.6. Every percentage point helps.

Easy to forget how Garrett was chased out of Dallas, who under Mike McCarthy were projected this season to be Super Bowl contenders. But Garrett won three NFC East titles (2014, 2016, and 2018) and was the NFL Coach of the Year in 2016 — not too far into the past.

Yes, Dallas’ starting quarterback and their backup went down this season. But without Garrett, the Cowboys have crumbled, and even superstars like Ezekiel Elliott look pedestrian. Garrett’s presence and experience have helped the Giants’ young quarterback, as well as the Giants’ young coaching staff. He looks sorely missed in Dallas.

He’s also used creative ways to get the ball to explosive playmakers. With all of New York screaming to trade Evan Engram, Garrett reinforced his belief in his tight end. And while he might not throw the ball Engram’s way any more than normal, he’s finding other ways to get the ball in his hands (without the risk of Engram dropping it).

These creative plays help force opposing defense’s to respect the Giants playmakers. Garrett’s knowledge has also helped hidden gems on the Giants shine.