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4 biggest problems the NY Giants must fix against the Panthers in Week 2

By Reese Nasser

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - SEPTEMBER 11: Sterling Shepard #3 of the New York Giants runs the ball for a touchdown during a game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Giants defeated the Titans 21-20. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - SEPTEMBER 11: Sterling Shepard #3 of the New York Giants runs the ball for a touchdown during a game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Giants defeated the Titans 21-20. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 11: Austin Calitro #59 of the New York Giants reacts during the game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – SEPTEMBER 11: Austin Calitro #59 of the New York Giants reacts during the game against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium on September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images) /

1. Improved play from linebackers

The weakest part of the Giants’ defense in Week 1 was the linebacker core. After the team released their starting middle linebacker Blake Martinez, it was expected that this unit would be in for a tough ride. But the outing was worse than some may have imagined.

After the first series, changes were already being made. Austin Calitro was swept out for rookie linebacker Micah McFadden. When this didn’t work, Calitro was put back into the game. And he struggled heavily.

The Titans saw him as a weak spot for this group and targeted him early and often. Titans running back Dontrell Hilliard stole the show, recording three receptions for 61 yards and two touchdowns. Both of these touchdown receptions came with Calitro in coverage.

And now the Giants linebackers will be going up against one of the game’s biggest stars with McCaffrey lined up against them. In the past, he has proven to be the best receiving running back in the NFL. And the Panthers lean on him heavily in this area of the game.

At times last week, the Giants secondary also came down to help the linebackers. This may not be the case this weekend as several players along the secondary will be out, including starting cornerback Aaron Robinson.

If the Giants aren’t careful, they could be in line for a long day against McCaffrey and the Panthers’ offense.

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