The 2009 Giants were a complete shell of the team that won one of the greatest Super Bowl games in NFL history in 2007 and then went 11-1 to start 2008. And the most disturbing thing is not that it happened, but that nobody seems to know why it happened. And if you don't know why, you can't fix it.
Clearly Harry Carson was well within his rights to vent about the lack of effort he saw in the horrible loss to Carolina in the last game ever to be played in Giants stadium. And Michael Strahan echoed those comments a week later on the Fox telecast, saying that the players had licked the stamps on the envelope weeks earlier. The observations of those two former proud Giants were later drowned out by owner John Mara expressing his disgust at the listless, emotionless and lifeless display put on by the players whose salaries he pays.
But while the lack of emotion and effort, with the playoffs on the line, was inexplicable, the more important question remains: what happened to these Giants between 2008 and 2009? Nobody knows. I have not read one article in any paper, not heard one comment by any commentator, and most importantly have not heard one word from any Giant coach or player, that explains how the young team that won the 2007 SB and went 11-1 to start 2008 suddenly sank to become one of the dredges of the NFL.
At the end of the 2006 season, Tom Coughlin was fighting for his coaching life. The media and the fans were calling for his head and the odds makers had him a long shot to survive as Giants head coach. Giants ownership didn't fire him but only gave him a one year extension and ordered changes to his staff and his personality. That's how bad things were at the end of 2006.
That was followed by two golden years. The Giants won the SB in 2007 and validated their legitimacy by going 11-1 to start 2008. They won 15 of 16 games dating back to the start of the 2007 playoffs. Then the disaster of 2009 which was eerily similar to the horrors of 2006.
How does one explain those two golden years? Well there is one common denominator and his name is Steve Spagnuolo. The players took to Spags almost immediately. His enthusiasm was infectious on both sides of the ball. His scheme called for an aggressive style of football with the defenders running downhill towards the ball. But more importantly he infected the team with confidence and enthusiasm, something sorely missing in 2009. Is it mere coincidence that the team turned things around in 2007 with his arrival following the misery of 2006? And is it mere coincidence that the team seemed listless and lifeless in 2009 following his departure?
Those are unanswerable questions. And his record with the Rams, whatever it turns out to be, won't be a measuring stick of the importance he held to the 2007-08 Giants - just because he was a great defensive coordinator doesn't mean he will be a successful head coach. And, yes, there were many things wrong with the team above and beyond the defense in 2009. But what Spags brought to the table was infectious and impacted the entire team - defense, offense, special teams and the entire coaching staff. The question is: can Coughlin find another Spags to energize the team in 2010 and beyond?
Monday, December 28, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Giants No Longer Control Destiny
After an emotional win against Dallas, the Giants went on to lose to Philly in a wild shootout and then destroyed Washington. In the process, however, they have lost control over their destiny and are on the outside looking in. Quite a fall from grace from Super Bowl winners in 2007 followed by a dominant performance in 2008.
There have been two constants this season. 1. Eli and the wide receivers showed up. 2. Everyone else took the year off. And that remained true these past two weeks. The Giants offense beat the Eagles but the Giants lost the game because of special teams and the defense (or lack thereof). And while the defense was better against Washington it was really the dominating play of the offense that created the scenario for the defense. In perhaps the most dominating 1st quarter of football in my lifetime, Washington had the ball for one series going three and out for minus two yards. Meanwhile the Giants put up seven points and were in the midst of their second long drive when the quarter ended. They would go on to score on that second possession and the game was over. The offense gets a huge assist - if not the dominant role - for the defensive statistics last week.
Now the Giants face the Panthers in the last game to ever be played in Giants stadium, then travel to play the Vikings in a game that suddenly matters for Minnesota. Even if the Giants win both games, they need help in the form of a Dallas or Green Bay loss. And even if they get that help and find themselves as wild card entrants into the post season, they aren't likely to go very far without any defense. So, while it is nice to have games that count this late in the season, that's all it really is... nice. But pretty meaningless. That's what has become of this team. And it is all very, very puzzling. This team has not played well from the very beginning of the season and the thing that is most bothersome is that I am not sure why - I am not sure what happened to the defense - and therefore not sure what is needed to turn things around in 2010. And I cannot recall that ever happening before - when they stunk I generally knew why they stunk. And at least that was comforting because you knew what needed to be done to turn things around. That isn't true this time around which creates a huge amount of uncertainty moving forward.
There have been two constants this season. 1. Eli and the wide receivers showed up. 2. Everyone else took the year off. And that remained true these past two weeks. The Giants offense beat the Eagles but the Giants lost the game because of special teams and the defense (or lack thereof). And while the defense was better against Washington it was really the dominating play of the offense that created the scenario for the defense. In perhaps the most dominating 1st quarter of football in my lifetime, Washington had the ball for one series going three and out for minus two yards. Meanwhile the Giants put up seven points and were in the midst of their second long drive when the quarter ended. They would go on to score on that second possession and the game was over. The offense gets a huge assist - if not the dominant role - for the defensive statistics last week.
Now the Giants face the Panthers in the last game to ever be played in Giants stadium, then travel to play the Vikings in a game that suddenly matters for Minnesota. Even if the Giants win both games, they need help in the form of a Dallas or Green Bay loss. And even if they get that help and find themselves as wild card entrants into the post season, they aren't likely to go very far without any defense. So, while it is nice to have games that count this late in the season, that's all it really is... nice. But pretty meaningless. That's what has become of this team. And it is all very, very puzzling. This team has not played well from the very beginning of the season and the thing that is most bothersome is that I am not sure why - I am not sure what happened to the defense - and therefore not sure what is needed to turn things around in 2010. And I cannot recall that ever happening before - when they stunk I generally knew why they stunk. And at least that was comforting because you knew what needed to be done to turn things around. That isn't true this time around which creates a huge amount of uncertainty moving forward.
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Giants Play Best Game in Biggest Game of Year
I'm almost at a loss for words. The Giants have not played well all year. Even when they were 5-0 they were 19th in the league against the run, 31st in giving up 20+ yard running plays, had no pash rush, and were not running the ball with authority. Then they went on to lose 5 of their next 6, the last of which was a listless performance in Denver on Thanksgiving night. Not only were they not playing well, it appeared they had given up on the season.
That is until this afternoon. Dallas, riding high with 6 wins in their last 7 games, was in town. The same team that torched the Giants over 250 yards on the ground in game two. And today the Giants stuffed the run big time. And while the rush wasn't the awesome force so many predicted heading into the season, was enough to force Romo into some bad throws in some big situations. And the Giants ran the ball and stuck with it. Jacobs ran the ball with authority even when the yards weren't there.
The Giants played Giants football for the first time this year and came up with a huge win in a huge game with their backs against the wall. And I will be the first to admit that I would have bet the house against it ever happening. I'm still not a believer, but the Giants are clearly alive for at least one more week - and if they can find a way to win next Sunday night against Philadelphia, this will be a brand new season with the Giants in the thick of things. Surely not a bad way to start December.
That is until this afternoon. Dallas, riding high with 6 wins in their last 7 games, was in town. The same team that torched the Giants over 250 yards on the ground in game two. And today the Giants stuffed the run big time. And while the rush wasn't the awesome force so many predicted heading into the season, was enough to force Romo into some bad throws in some big situations. And the Giants ran the ball and stuck with it. Jacobs ran the ball with authority even when the yards weren't there.
The Giants played Giants football for the first time this year and came up with a huge win in a huge game with their backs against the wall. And I will be the first to admit that I would have bet the house against it ever happening. I'm still not a believer, but the Giants are clearly alive for at least one more week - and if they can find a way to win next Sunday night against Philadelphia, this will be a brand new season with the Giants in the thick of things. Surely not a bad way to start December.
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Giants On The Ropes in Midst of Ten Count
The Giants may have received their knock out punch Thanksgiving night in Denver last Thu.
In the aftermath the Giants demoted Osi. Any such decision almost certainly required input (if not outright approval) from Reese - and almost certainly would have been round-tabled with every coach on both sides of the ball before being made. It has ramifications throughout the team considering who the player in question is and his past value to the team. I have to believe that demoting a player like Osi is only done after substantial management debate and consideration and with great reluctance.
I've been away all week without access to the internet or NY media so I've not read anything about this other than briefly here on BBI last night. So maybe all of the above has been discussed to death and, if so, I apologize for being out of the loop. But I think it is an absolutely stunning turn of events and speaks volumes about what upper management thinks about Osi, Sheridan, the defense, and the season as a whole.
In the aftermath the Giants demoted Osi. Any such decision almost certainly required input (if not outright approval) from Reese - and almost certainly would have been round-tabled with every coach on both sides of the ball before being made. It has ramifications throughout the team considering who the player in question is and his past value to the team. I have to believe that demoting a player like Osi is only done after substantial management debate and consideration and with great reluctance.
I've been away all week without access to the internet or NY media so I've not read anything about this other than briefly here on BBI last night. So maybe all of the above has been discussed to death and, if so, I apologize for being out of the loop. But I think it is an absolutely stunning turn of events and speaks volumes about what upper management thinks about Osi, Sheridan, the defense, and the season as a whole.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Giants End Losing Streak, But Does It Matter?
It's Thanksgiving Day, minutes before kickoff in Denver. The Giants are facing a team that has had a very similar season thus far. Like the Giants, the Broncos started off on a winning streak, going 6-0 before losing their last four straight games. This is a team lacking in confidence and a team that is ready for the taking. The question is, are the Giants good enough to do it?
Based on last week's performance, the answer has to be "no". Heading into last week's game, the Giants looked like they were perhaps, for the first time this season, beginning to show their strengths. Against San Diego their run defense showed up for the first time this year. And on offense they totally dominated the clock with some monster "Giant-like" drives. Despite the loss, it appeared they had maybe turned the corner.
But last week they were abysmal. They couldn't stop the run. They had very little pass rush and their efforts to create pressure with the blitz were completely ineffective. Worse, their offensive line appeared to be the weakest link of the entire team. Thank goodness for Eli Manning and the receiving corp (yes, that same group that was supposed to be their achilles heel - and the same group that sustained them on their 5-0 winning streak). But this team is not going to go far if the sole strength on the team is their young group of wide receivers.
A good team would beat the Denver Broncos this evening hands down. The offensive line would dominate and Brandon Jacobs would touch the ball 25+ times for 150+ yards. But, alas, this does not appear to be a good team. While a win is important, once again the real issue is how they play. At this point in the season, I'm not holding my breath that the 2009 team is suddenly going to find their way out of the woods and start playing ferocious defense and physically dominating offense.
Based on last week's performance, the answer has to be "no". Heading into last week's game, the Giants looked like they were perhaps, for the first time this season, beginning to show their strengths. Against San Diego their run defense showed up for the first time this year. And on offense they totally dominated the clock with some monster "Giant-like" drives. Despite the loss, it appeared they had maybe turned the corner.
But last week they were abysmal. They couldn't stop the run. They had very little pass rush and their efforts to create pressure with the blitz were completely ineffective. Worse, their offensive line appeared to be the weakest link of the entire team. Thank goodness for Eli Manning and the receiving corp (yes, that same group that was supposed to be their achilles heel - and the same group that sustained them on their 5-0 winning streak). But this team is not going to go far if the sole strength on the team is their young group of wide receivers.
A good team would beat the Denver Broncos this evening hands down. The offensive line would dominate and Brandon Jacobs would touch the ball 25+ times for 150+ yards. But, alas, this does not appear to be a good team. While a win is important, once again the real issue is how they play. At this point in the season, I'm not holding my breath that the 2009 team is suddenly going to find their way out of the woods and start playing ferocious defense and physically dominating offense.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Giants Season On The Line
For the first time this season I'm actually optimistic about the Giants. I was worried about this team even before camp opened - from the moment I learned that the true reason behind the money spent on Canty and Bernard was not to build an awesome pass rush but instead because it was revealed that Cofield and Robbins had undergone major off season knee surgeries. That worry intensified with the season ending injury to Alford and the inability of Canty and Bernard to get on the field to even practice with the team throughout camp. The worries intensified with the inexplicable failure to stop the run, the lack of pass rush, and the disappearance of the "old" Brandon Jacobs.
Although they lost, last week for the first time I was actually happy because the Giants stuffed the run and ate major portions of the clock with massive offensive drives. Not that their problems have been solved. Far from it. But they showed improvement in keys areas and played far better than they had been even when they were 5-0. I was not a happy camper when they were 5-0 because their supposed strengths (run defense, pass rush, and ball control offense) were all sputtering despite their wins. Today, coming off a bye week (not a good thing in Giants history) , they have a chance to build on where they left off against San Diego. And, if they do, they still have a chance to put together a special season. But, while a win is key, how they win is equally important if they are going to have any chance of salvaging this season. First and foremost they must continue last week's success against the run on defense and controlling the clock on 0ffense. And they have to show improvement in the pass rush. Then, maybe, just maybe, there may be light at the end of the tunnel.
Although they lost, last week for the first time I was actually happy because the Giants stuffed the run and ate major portions of the clock with massive offensive drives. Not that their problems have been solved. Far from it. But they showed improvement in keys areas and played far better than they had been even when they were 5-0. I was not a happy camper when they were 5-0 because their supposed strengths (run defense, pass rush, and ball control offense) were all sputtering despite their wins. Today, coming off a bye week (not a good thing in Giants history) , they have a chance to build on where they left off against San Diego. And, if they do, they still have a chance to put together a special season. But, while a win is key, how they win is equally important if they are going to have any chance of salvaging this season. First and foremost they must continue last week's success against the run on defense and controlling the clock on 0ffense. And they have to show improvement in the pass rush. Then, maybe, just maybe, there may be light at the end of the tunnel.
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Embarrassed in Philly, Giants On the Ropes
The Giants extended their losing streak to 3 games last week when the Eagles tore them apart and feasted on their remains. The Giants failed in every aspect of football. Turnovers. Field position. Offense. Defense. Special teams. Coaching. Player execution. Talent. As easily as the Giants wins appeared against the likes of Tampa, Oakland, and KC - the tables have turned and the Giants have been the fodder - the easy game on the schedule - for NO, AZ, and Philly.
My exuberance heading into the season was very short lived. I was excited by what I saw in the season opener against Washington, especially by the passing game. Early warnings existed even then, however, when I observed that there wasn't enough pressure on the QB.
After the second game of the season - the win against Dallas - it was obvious that, amazingly, the passing game was carrying the team, while concerns were evident with the defense.
By the third game against Tampa another concern developed - Brandon Jacobs just wasn't running like Brandon Jacobs. It was as though he had lost his mojo - his desire to inflict pain - to barrel over people - to intimidate. And the pass rush woes continued with the Giants not registering a single sack against a very weak opponent.
After the fourth week against another soft opponent, the final weakness was revealed - the Giants ended the game ranked 19th against the run - and 31st in allowing runs over 20 yards. Brandon Jacobs was still not lowering his shoulder.
After game five the Giants stood 5-0 and there were whispers of dynasty and Super Bowl dreams. But the health of their defense, an issue before the pre-season even commenced, was a big question. And, more disturbing, even though they had just finished the patsy portion of their season, they had not shown any semblance of a dominating pass rush, were horrid against the run, and were not demonstrating any physicality in their own running game. They were standing tall at 5-0, but the handwriting was on the wall about the fall that was about to come.
And fall they did. Hard. The question now is not whether they win or lose tomorrow against San Diego. Don't get me wrong. A win would be nice. But the question is more about whether they can right their ship - turn things around in the three areas that were supposed to be the strengths of this team:
1. Pass rush
2. Run defense
3. Physically dominating, time consuming, intimidating run offense.
The evidence based on all 8 games they've played so far, is ... no - they are not likely to turn those things around in one week. But since I am at a loss to understand the reason why these supposed strengths have turned out to be weaknesses, gives me hope that maybe - just maybe - they can suddenly become strengths again. One can only hope. And dream.
My exuberance heading into the season was very short lived. I was excited by what I saw in the season opener against Washington, especially by the passing game. Early warnings existed even then, however, when I observed that there wasn't enough pressure on the QB.
After the second game of the season - the win against Dallas - it was obvious that, amazingly, the passing game was carrying the team, while concerns were evident with the defense.
By the third game against Tampa another concern developed - Brandon Jacobs just wasn't running like Brandon Jacobs. It was as though he had lost his mojo - his desire to inflict pain - to barrel over people - to intimidate. And the pass rush woes continued with the Giants not registering a single sack against a very weak opponent.
After the fourth week against another soft opponent, the final weakness was revealed - the Giants ended the game ranked 19th against the run - and 31st in allowing runs over 20 yards. Brandon Jacobs was still not lowering his shoulder.
After game five the Giants stood 5-0 and there were whispers of dynasty and Super Bowl dreams. But the health of their defense, an issue before the pre-season even commenced, was a big question. And, more disturbing, even though they had just finished the patsy portion of their season, they had not shown any semblance of a dominating pass rush, were horrid against the run, and were not demonstrating any physicality in their own running game. They were standing tall at 5-0, but the handwriting was on the wall about the fall that was about to come.
And fall they did. Hard. The question now is not whether they win or lose tomorrow against San Diego. Don't get me wrong. A win would be nice. But the question is more about whether they can right their ship - turn things around in the three areas that were supposed to be the strengths of this team:
1. Pass rush
2. Run defense
3. Physically dominating, time consuming, intimidating run offense.
The evidence based on all 8 games they've played so far, is ... no - they are not likely to turn those things around in one week. But since I am at a loss to understand the reason why these supposed strengths have turned out to be weaknesses, gives me hope that maybe - just maybe - they can suddenly become strengths again. One can only hope. And dream.
Monday, October 26, 2009
2009 Slipping Away?
The Giants lost to AZ last night and while it would be easy to "blame" Eli Manning for the interceptions and some bad throws and his "kids" for some drops or failing to get open, that wouldn't be very fair.
First of all, the defense gave up 24 points and this is the NFL folks where teams that score 24 points win more often than not. The defense this season has been very soft against the run as demonstrated once again last night. The pass rush, while better last night than the week before, has been anemic and certainly wasn't terrorizing Warner yesterday. The run offense has been horrendous. Very soft. Not physical. Not dominating the line of scrimmage. Epitomized when Jacobs, on his long run last night, decided to dance with the defensive back, juking left then going right and leading, once again, to an easy ankle tackle. The Jacobs of 2007-2008 would have gone head hunting - zeroing in on the defender's chest - and making the defender close his eyes and scream to his mama in fear. But not in 2009 and, as I have said repeatedly, that change appears to have rippled down to the entire team. They are simply not physically dominating anyone.
Here's the rest of the season and, based upon how they have played to date (i.e. assuming the run defense, pass rush, and running game all stay the same), the likely outcome:
@ Phil: L
San Diego: W (I'll be generous - I AM a fan after all)
Atlanta: L
@ Denver: L
Dallas: L
Phil: L
@Wash: W
Carolina: W
@ Minn: L
That's 8-8 with no playoffs. The big point is that losing to NO and AZ shouldn't be shocking anyone who is a hard core fan that actually watches/studies every Giants' game . The strength of the Giants over the first five games - and unit responsible for those first five wins - was Eli and his kid receivers. While that was certainly exciting to see, anyone who wasn't concerned about what that said about the run defense, lack of pass rush, and anemic run offense was simply playing ostrich.
Can they turn things around? Heck yea. They have talent. But - based upon the way they have played thus far - and again I am not talking now about the last two games - I am talking about the first five games - the Giants would be very lucky to end the season at 8-8. The most puzzling aspect of this is that it isn't clear why they should be having such difficulty defending the run, or with their pass rush, or why they aren't as physically dominating in their run offense. For the most part the players are all the same. Very puzzling. And disturbing.
First of all, the defense gave up 24 points and this is the NFL folks where teams that score 24 points win more often than not. The defense this season has been very soft against the run as demonstrated once again last night. The pass rush, while better last night than the week before, has been anemic and certainly wasn't terrorizing Warner yesterday. The run offense has been horrendous. Very soft. Not physical. Not dominating the line of scrimmage. Epitomized when Jacobs, on his long run last night, decided to dance with the defensive back, juking left then going right and leading, once again, to an easy ankle tackle. The Jacobs of 2007-2008 would have gone head hunting - zeroing in on the defender's chest - and making the defender close his eyes and scream to his mama in fear. But not in 2009 and, as I have said repeatedly, that change appears to have rippled down to the entire team. They are simply not physically dominating anyone.
Here's the rest of the season and, based upon how they have played to date (i.e. assuming the run defense, pass rush, and running game all stay the same), the likely outcome:
@ Phil: L
San Diego: W (I'll be generous - I AM a fan after all)
Atlanta: L
@ Denver: L
Dallas: L
Phil: L
@Wash: W
Carolina: W
@ Minn: L
That's 8-8 with no playoffs. The big point is that losing to NO and AZ shouldn't be shocking anyone who is a hard core fan that actually watches/studies every Giants' game . The strength of the Giants over the first five games - and unit responsible for those first five wins - was Eli and his kid receivers. While that was certainly exciting to see, anyone who wasn't concerned about what that said about the run defense, lack of pass rush, and anemic run offense was simply playing ostrich.
Can they turn things around? Heck yea. They have talent. But - based upon the way they have played thus far - and again I am not talking now about the last two games - I am talking about the first five games - the Giants would be very lucky to end the season at 8-8. The most puzzling aspect of this is that it isn't clear why they should be having such difficulty defending the run, or with their pass rush, or why they aren't as physically dominating in their run offense. For the most part the players are all the same. Very puzzling. And disturbing.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Who Are The 2009 Giants?
My concerns about the 2009 Giants started before the pre-season when learning that Robbins and Cofield both had significant off-season knee surgeries. My worry then was that the Bernard and Canty signings weren't all about putting together the most dominant defensive line in history but were instead a sign of concern about health. Of course, my concern then was that Robbins and Cofield would have health issues, not that Bernard and Canty would have their own health issues. But the bottom line is that the awesome most dominant defensive line in history concept remains just that - a concept and a pipe dream.
Add in season ending injuries to Alford and Phillips - and Ross' inability to yet play a game in 2009 with the half way point rapidly approaching - and I suppose it shouldn't be too surprising to see the defense struggle against teams like Dallas and New Orleans. But that doesn't mean it shouldn't be disturbing, considering that most people view the Giants as a young and very talented club. Before the New Orleans game there were even whispers of "the next NFL dynasty". I would think any such thoughts have now been thoroughly put to bed.
The Giants are, indeed, a young and talented team but the 2009 version is a team that is struggling to find its identity. Are they a running team capable of physically dominating other teams with multiple 8-10 minute drives in any one game? Are they a "defense first" team that forces other teams to spend most of their preparation time figuring out how they are going to put points on the board? Unfortunately the answer to both of the above questions - after 6 games thus far - appears to be "no". Despite their lofty defensive ranking, it is this one man's opinion that the ranking is more about the schedule than about actual defensive dominance.
Things may change. The Giants may find their pass rush. And they may tighten up against the run. And Brandon Jacobs may return to doling out more than the considerable punishment he receives. And cows may fly. For now, the Giants may have to take solace that their passing game - questioned so heavily before the season - is their primary strength. Indeed, if Brandon Jacobs doesn't return to form and start cracking heads, the success of the 2009 Giants' season may very well depend upon Manning's arm and his wide receivers. Who woulda thunk it.
Add in season ending injuries to Alford and Phillips - and Ross' inability to yet play a game in 2009 with the half way point rapidly approaching - and I suppose it shouldn't be too surprising to see the defense struggle against teams like Dallas and New Orleans. But that doesn't mean it shouldn't be disturbing, considering that most people view the Giants as a young and very talented club. Before the New Orleans game there were even whispers of "the next NFL dynasty". I would think any such thoughts have now been thoroughly put to bed.
The Giants are, indeed, a young and talented team but the 2009 version is a team that is struggling to find its identity. Are they a running team capable of physically dominating other teams with multiple 8-10 minute drives in any one game? Are they a "defense first" team that forces other teams to spend most of their preparation time figuring out how they are going to put points on the board? Unfortunately the answer to both of the above questions - after 6 games thus far - appears to be "no". Despite their lofty defensive ranking, it is this one man's opinion that the ranking is more about the schedule than about actual defensive dominance.
Things may change. The Giants may find their pass rush. And they may tighten up against the run. And Brandon Jacobs may return to doling out more than the considerable punishment he receives. And cows may fly. For now, the Giants may have to take solace that their passing game - questioned so heavily before the season - is their primary strength. Indeed, if Brandon Jacobs doesn't return to form and start cracking heads, the success of the 2009 Giants' season may very well depend upon Manning's arm and his wide receivers. Who woulda thunk it.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
No Mardis Gras Party
There isn't much to say. And there isn't much to know. It's been a long time since the Giants were on the losing end of a game when both teams replaced their starting quarterbacks with substantial time left on the clock. New Orleans replaced Drew Brees with 5:57 to go in the 4th and the Giants responded by sending David Carr onto the field when the Giants got the ball back. And the sad truth is both teams were late making the move.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
The Real Season Begins Tomorrow In New Orleans
To nobody's surprise, the Giants dispatched the Raiders so handily it isn't worth talking about. If any significance can be taken from the game it is that the Giants not only won a game they were supposed to win, they did so in the manner in which they were expected to. A sign of a very good team.
But that is about all you can take from the game. Indeed just about all you can take from the first five games. There isn't any doubt this is a very good football team. Indeed, it is an excellent organization, from Jerry Reese to Coughlin right down to the 53rd player (ok, sorry, I have to confess I find it difficult to include Moss in the equation - it appears he is about to lose his return duties leaving him with very little to contribute).
Getting back on point, this is an excellent organization that has put together a very strong entrant for the 2009 SB stakes. But just how good can't be measured by what they've done these first five games. Not their fault of course. They don't control the schedule and they have dealt with their weaker opponents in a very workmanlike, matter-of-fact, manner. But, starting tomorrow, some of the lingering questions will start to be answered. Will the loss of depth by the season ending injuries (conditions) of Alford and Phillips cost them in Nov/Dec? Can Canty, Boley and Ross get healthy? Will the off-season surgeries impact Robbins, Bernard, and Cofield during the last quarter of the season? And - most significantly of all - will Brandon Jacobs begin lowering his shoulder?
I don't know the answers to any of these questions but I do know the answers, whatever they may be, will be critical to the outcome of the Giants season. We'll get to see the beginnings of some answers starting tomorrow.
I look for the Giants to rely heavily upon their supposedly "inexperienced" receivers to play a critical role in this game. Smith, Manningham and Nicks, as a group, are too quick for the Saints to cover. And, as a trio, they have the best "hands" of any trio in Giants history. Add in Beckum and Boss, and they are incredibly solid in the passing game. Who (besides those of us here at Giants Corner) woulda thunk it?
But that is about all you can take from the game. Indeed just about all you can take from the first five games. There isn't any doubt this is a very good football team. Indeed, it is an excellent organization, from Jerry Reese to Coughlin right down to the 53rd player (ok, sorry, I have to confess I find it difficult to include Moss in the equation - it appears he is about to lose his return duties leaving him with very little to contribute).
Getting back on point, this is an excellent organization that has put together a very strong entrant for the 2009 SB stakes. But just how good can't be measured by what they've done these first five games. Not their fault of course. They don't control the schedule and they have dealt with their weaker opponents in a very workmanlike, matter-of-fact, manner. But, starting tomorrow, some of the lingering questions will start to be answered. Will the loss of depth by the season ending injuries (conditions) of Alford and Phillips cost them in Nov/Dec? Can Canty, Boley and Ross get healthy? Will the off-season surgeries impact Robbins, Bernard, and Cofield during the last quarter of the season? And - most significantly of all - will Brandon Jacobs begin lowering his shoulder?
I don't know the answers to any of these questions but I do know the answers, whatever they may be, will be critical to the outcome of the Giants season. We'll get to see the beginnings of some answers starting tomorrow.
I look for the Giants to rely heavily upon their supposedly "inexperienced" receivers to play a critical role in this game. Smith, Manningham and Nicks, as a group, are too quick for the Saints to cover. And, as a trio, they have the best "hands" of any trio in Giants history. Add in Beckum and Boss, and they are incredibly solid in the passing game. Who (besides those of us here at Giants Corner) woulda thunk it?
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Injuries Mount
The Giants put KC away last Sunday in a very workmanlike fashion which has typified the Giants under Tom Coughlin. Tomorrow they receive the third "freebie" in a row from the NFL scheduling gods - and they are going to need it. Eli Manning may not be pain free the rest of this season, Boss is hurt, Boley had yet another surgery, Kehl had surgery, and on it goes.
Three of their 4 wins have come against less than formidable opponents - Washington, Tampa, & KC. Yet despite the soft schedule thus far, the Giants rank 19th in defense against the run. And only Houston has given up more than the seven 20+ yard runs the Giants have allowed over the first quarter of the season. It is no secret that you can't win in this league if you can't stop the run and the Giants are going to have to tighten up against the run - a lot - and soon.
But the big issue facing the Giants is health. Alford, Phillips, Boley, Canty, Ross, Kehl, Manning, Boss. And the list goes on. Yet, the injury that concerns me the most is one that hasn't been reported. I am a huge Brandon Jacobs fan. I've watched every snap he's taken in his professional career and it has been clearly evident to me that he has been reluctant to lower his shoulder. Last week he lowered the boom on two occasions and both times went immediately to the sidelines where he remained for several plays thereafter. The only conclusion I can reach is that Brandon has been struggling with a sore shoulder - sore enough that it has forced him to adjust his running style. If true, this could be devastating to the Giants because I truly believe that Jacobs is arguably as critical as Eli Manning to the Giants success over the long term. So I will be watching carefully to see how often Brandon uses his shoulder as a battering ram as the season progresses.
One last prediction. Braylon Edwards is going to play big for the Jets this season - while, at the same time, as the season progresses into Oct/Nov, the Giants wide receivers are going to have some tough sledding. It is a bit much to expect that they will go all season long without showing any growing pains. Giants fans need to keep the faith and remember that the goal is to have the youngsters gain valuable playing experience and wind up playing strong, as a group, in Dec/Jan. So, enjoy tomorrow's game because, thereafter, the real season begins.
Three of their 4 wins have come against less than formidable opponents - Washington, Tampa, & KC. Yet despite the soft schedule thus far, the Giants rank 19th in defense against the run. And only Houston has given up more than the seven 20+ yard runs the Giants have allowed over the first quarter of the season. It is no secret that you can't win in this league if you can't stop the run and the Giants are going to have to tighten up against the run - a lot - and soon.
But the big issue facing the Giants is health. Alford, Phillips, Boley, Canty, Ross, Kehl, Manning, Boss. And the list goes on. Yet, the injury that concerns me the most is one that hasn't been reported. I am a huge Brandon Jacobs fan. I've watched every snap he's taken in his professional career and it has been clearly evident to me that he has been reluctant to lower his shoulder. Last week he lowered the boom on two occasions and both times went immediately to the sidelines where he remained for several plays thereafter. The only conclusion I can reach is that Brandon has been struggling with a sore shoulder - sore enough that it has forced him to adjust his running style. If true, this could be devastating to the Giants because I truly believe that Jacobs is arguably as critical as Eli Manning to the Giants success over the long term. So I will be watching carefully to see how often Brandon uses his shoulder as a battering ram as the season progresses.
One last prediction. Braylon Edwards is going to play big for the Jets this season - while, at the same time, as the season progresses into Oct/Nov, the Giants wide receivers are going to have some tough sledding. It is a bit much to expect that they will go all season long without showing any growing pains. Giants fans need to keep the faith and remember that the goal is to have the youngsters gain valuable playing experience and wind up playing strong, as a group, in Dec/Jan. So, enjoy tomorrow's game because, thereafter, the real season begins.
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Giants Display Dominance
The interesting part of the Giants - Tampa game last Sunday is what didn't happen. The Giants didn't register a single sack. And Brandon Jacobs ran, well, very un-Brandon like. I can't stand Tony Siragusa and Moose Johnson is even worse, so I hate to admit I was having the same thoughts they were verbalizing last Sunday. Well, not the exact same thoughts. Siragusa displayed his ignorance when talking about how Jacobs "has to learn to hit people". I don't know what rock he's been living under, but he obviously doesn't know jack about Brandon.
But Siragusa's ignorance aside, Brandon was running very tentative and tip-toeing as he approached the line. I don't recall seeing him lower his shoulder into a single defender on Sunday. I'm not sure if he had a touch of the flue, a sore leg, or a hangover - but it is critical for Jacobs to get back to his old self in a hurry before New Orleans arrives. The Giants need the smash mouth, bruising Brandon Jacobs - and they need him in a big way. When he plays his game, he leads the entire team - on both sides of the ball - by example and lifts the energy level of every player on the team. If the Giants are going to win the tough games down the stretch, they are going to need the real Brandon Jacobs to play his game.
Now - back to the story of last Sunday. Despite the Giants not playing their top game - indeed, not even close to their top game - and despite injuries up and down the line up - the Giants talent level - and depth - was on full display by the fact they completely dominated the Bucs. Tampa didn't register a single first down on offense until mid-way through the third quarter. And the Giants moved the ball seemingly at will - eventually putting David Carr into the game with over a quarter left to play. It was such complete domination that it was difficult to remember that these were paid professional football players on the other side of the line of scrimmage.
And - for yet one more game - the receivers - especially Steve Smith - were impossible to cover. And, with Nicks coming back tomorrow against KC, it is becoming increasingly clear that the wide receiver corp is not only not going to be a weakness, it is going to be (and already is) a strength of the team. And I continue to predict, as I have since his rookie year in 2007, that Steve Smith is going to end his career holding every single Giants receiving record.
But Siragusa's ignorance aside, Brandon was running very tentative and tip-toeing as he approached the line. I don't recall seeing him lower his shoulder into a single defender on Sunday. I'm not sure if he had a touch of the flue, a sore leg, or a hangover - but it is critical for Jacobs to get back to his old self in a hurry before New Orleans arrives. The Giants need the smash mouth, bruising Brandon Jacobs - and they need him in a big way. When he plays his game, he leads the entire team - on both sides of the ball - by example and lifts the energy level of every player on the team. If the Giants are going to win the tough games down the stretch, they are going to need the real Brandon Jacobs to play his game.
Now - back to the story of last Sunday. Despite the Giants not playing their top game - indeed, not even close to their top game - and despite injuries up and down the line up - the Giants talent level - and depth - was on full display by the fact they completely dominated the Bucs. Tampa didn't register a single first down on offense until mid-way through the third quarter. And the Giants moved the ball seemingly at will - eventually putting David Carr into the game with over a quarter left to play. It was such complete domination that it was difficult to remember that these were paid professional football players on the other side of the line of scrimmage.
And - for yet one more game - the receivers - especially Steve Smith - were impossible to cover. And, with Nicks coming back tomorrow against KC, it is becoming increasingly clear that the wide receiver corp is not only not going to be a weakness, it is going to be (and already is) a strength of the team. And I continue to predict, as I have since his rookie year in 2007, that Steve Smith is going to end his career holding every single Giants receiving record.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Giants Receivers Ruin Cowboys Gala Party
The Giants went into Dallas last Sunday night and spoiled the Cowboys home opener in their spanking new stadium because:
A. On defense, the Giants pass rush was so ferocious it had Romo running back to Mexico
B. On defense, the Giants heralded defense stopped the Cowboys running game cold
C. On offense, the Giants running game was unstoppable
Do I even have to list option D?
Since prior to the draft I've been saying the Giants' wide receivers would not only be fun to watch but would, by the last quarter of the season, be a strength of this team. I had that wrong. At least the timing part. On Sunday night, the Giants don't win the game without Steve Smith and Mario Manningham both of whom had 10 catches for more than 100 yards - the first time in Giants history that two wide receivers caught 10 passes apiece in a single game.
Sure, it's only one game. And its early in the season. And yes, they are still a very inexperienced group who are still going to make some mistakes that result in turnovers this year. But, so long as Nicks gets back on the field fairly soon, this group is going to turn some heads this post-season.
Of course, they are going to have to get better performances in the running game and on defense because this young group of kids is unlikely to have the consistency to carry the team game after game, all year long. And they are going to have to solve the red zone and short yardage issues. And it might be nice to see the players on the defensive side of the ball healthy and out of the training room. But the schedule gods gave the Giants an early break with three opponents they should beat handliy in a row while Tuck, Ross, and Dockery hopefully get some time to fully heal.
Again, it's only two games. And things could turn ugly quickly if the Giants, as they have been prone to do in the past, lose focus and let one or more of these next three games get away from them. But that has not been the history of Tom Coughlin led teams. Coughlin seems to have that rare ability to get his players to understand the necessity to stay focused on what lies directly in their path - all sights on Tampa. Go Giants.
A. On defense, the Giants pass rush was so ferocious it had Romo running back to Mexico
B. On defense, the Giants heralded defense stopped the Cowboys running game cold
C. On offense, the Giants running game was unstoppable
Do I even have to list option D?
Since prior to the draft I've been saying the Giants' wide receivers would not only be fun to watch but would, by the last quarter of the season, be a strength of this team. I had that wrong. At least the timing part. On Sunday night, the Giants don't win the game without Steve Smith and Mario Manningham both of whom had 10 catches for more than 100 yards - the first time in Giants history that two wide receivers caught 10 passes apiece in a single game.
Sure, it's only one game. And its early in the season. And yes, they are still a very inexperienced group who are still going to make some mistakes that result in turnovers this year. But, so long as Nicks gets back on the field fairly soon, this group is going to turn some heads this post-season.
Of course, they are going to have to get better performances in the running game and on defense because this young group of kids is unlikely to have the consistency to carry the team game after game, all year long. And they are going to have to solve the red zone and short yardage issues. And it might be nice to see the players on the defensive side of the ball healthy and out of the training room. But the schedule gods gave the Giants an early break with three opponents they should beat handliy in a row while Tuck, Ross, and Dockery hopefully get some time to fully heal.
Again, it's only two games. And things could turn ugly quickly if the Giants, as they have been prone to do in the past, lose focus and let one or more of these next three games get away from them. But that has not been the history of Tom Coughlin led teams. Coughlin seems to have that rare ability to get his players to understand the necessity to stay focused on what lies directly in their path - all sights on Tampa. Go Giants.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Giants Show Their Stuff
Yes, it was only one game. And only the first game of the season which is probably one of the least reliable games as indicators go. But, with that proviso having been said, the Giants still answered a lot of questions in their 23-17 win over the Redskins in yesterday's home opener.
The passing game looked solid. More than solid, it was diversified and dynamic. If I were an opposing coach, I would be concerned about defending against the passing game. It isn't as simple as doubling one receiver and taking him out of the mix as the solution. That won't work against this passing attack. You have to defend all of the pass catchers and defend the entire length and width of the field.
The offensive line, especially in passing situations, was all-world. They get the game ball from me.
The defensive line rotation was incredible. Not as much pressure as one would hope (which is a scary thought since most teams would have been thrilled by the pressure in this game), but it was evident that they are going to be very strong in the 4th quarters of games this year.
Corey Webster was a monster. Best game of his career in my opinion. True shut down capability.
Bruce Johnson, an undrafted rookie starting in the nickel in the season opener of his rookie year. You had to believe Washington's game plan called for targeting him whenever possible. And he was solid, solid, solid.
So, yes, this was only one game. And it was only the season opener. But this team showed that they have all the pieces in place and will do nothing but get stronger as the season progresses. That doesn't mean they'll win every game. After all, they are unlikely to go 16-0 and may very well lose their first game in Dallas next week. That isn't the point. This team showed yesterday they are the real deal. And, with rookie wide receivers who will do nothing but get better as the season progresses, and with Canty and Boley not yet having played enough snaps to get familiar with the system, and with Ross and Dockery temporarily out - this team is going to do nothing but get stronger.
The passing game looked solid. More than solid, it was diversified and dynamic. If I were an opposing coach, I would be concerned about defending against the passing game. It isn't as simple as doubling one receiver and taking him out of the mix as the solution. That won't work against this passing attack. You have to defend all of the pass catchers and defend the entire length and width of the field.
The offensive line, especially in passing situations, was all-world. They get the game ball from me.
The defensive line rotation was incredible. Not as much pressure as one would hope (which is a scary thought since most teams would have been thrilled by the pressure in this game), but it was evident that they are going to be very strong in the 4th quarters of games this year.
Corey Webster was a monster. Best game of his career in my opinion. True shut down capability.
Bruce Johnson, an undrafted rookie starting in the nickel in the season opener of his rookie year. You had to believe Washington's game plan called for targeting him whenever possible. And he was solid, solid, solid.
So, yes, this was only one game. And it was only the season opener. But this team showed that they have all the pieces in place and will do nothing but get stronger as the season progresses. That doesn't mean they'll win every game. After all, they are unlikely to go 16-0 and may very well lose their first game in Dallas next week. That isn't the point. This team showed yesterday they are the real deal. And, with rookie wide receivers who will do nothing but get better as the season progresses, and with Canty and Boley not yet having played enough snaps to get familiar with the system, and with Ross and Dockery temporarily out - this team is going to do nothing but get stronger.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
2009 Roster (for now)
Yesterday the Giants made their mandatory cuts to reduce the preseason roster to 53. In doing so they said good-bye to David Tyree and traded Michael Matthews to NE for an undisclosed conditional 2011 draft pick.
However, this is clearly not the final roster because suspended LB Michael Boley does not count against the game one roster. Thus one player on the opening day roster will have to be cut (or traded) when Boley returns for the second week game against Dallas. In addition, the positional numbers seem out of balance and further tinkering before Sunday's game against Washington would not be surprising.
The roster on offense numbers 26 including 7 wide receivers and 10 linemen, leaving only 3 running backs (plus one blocking fullback) and only 3 TE including H-Back rookie Travis Beckum. On defense the positional numbers seem even more skewed. The total count of 25 includes 9 linemen and 8 linebackers, leaving only 5 corners and 3 safeties.
Current Roster:
QB (2): Eli Manning, David Carr
RB (3): Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, Danny Ware
FB (1): Madison Hedgecock
WR (7): Domenik Hixon, Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, Sinorice Moss, Derek Hagan, Hakeem Nicks, Ramses Barden
TE (3): Kevin Boss, Darcy Johnson, Travis Beckum
OL (10): David Diehl, Rich Seubert, Shaun O’Hara, Chris Snee, Kareem McKenzie, Kevin Boothe, Adam Koets, Guy Whimper, William Beatty, Tutan Reyes
DL (9): Justin Tuck, Osi Umeyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, Barry Cofield, Fred Robbins, Chris Canty, Rocky Bernard, Leger Douzable, Dave Tollefson
LB (8): Antonio Pierce, Danny Clark, Clint Sintim, Chase Blackburn, Jonathan Goff, Bryan Kehl, Gerris Wilkinson, Zak DeOssie
CB (5): Aaron Ross, Corey Webster, Kevin Dockery, Terrell Thomas, Bruce Johnson
S (3): Kenny Phillips, Michael Johnson, C.C. Brown
K (1): Lawrence Tynes
P (1): Jeff Feagles
Suspended list (1): LB Michael Boley
However, this is clearly not the final roster because suspended LB Michael Boley does not count against the game one roster. Thus one player on the opening day roster will have to be cut (or traded) when Boley returns for the second week game against Dallas. In addition, the positional numbers seem out of balance and further tinkering before Sunday's game against Washington would not be surprising.
The roster on offense numbers 26 including 7 wide receivers and 10 linemen, leaving only 3 running backs (plus one blocking fullback) and only 3 TE including H-Back rookie Travis Beckum. On defense the positional numbers seem even more skewed. The total count of 25 includes 9 linemen and 8 linebackers, leaving only 5 corners and 3 safeties.
Current Roster:
QB (2): Eli Manning, David Carr
RB (3): Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, Danny Ware
FB (1): Madison Hedgecock
WR (7): Domenik Hixon, Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, Sinorice Moss, Derek Hagan, Hakeem Nicks, Ramses Barden
TE (3): Kevin Boss, Darcy Johnson, Travis Beckum
OL (10): David Diehl, Rich Seubert, Shaun O’Hara, Chris Snee, Kareem McKenzie, Kevin Boothe, Adam Koets, Guy Whimper, William Beatty, Tutan Reyes
DL (9): Justin Tuck, Osi Umeyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, Barry Cofield, Fred Robbins, Chris Canty, Rocky Bernard, Leger Douzable, Dave Tollefson
LB (8): Antonio Pierce, Danny Clark, Clint Sintim, Chase Blackburn, Jonathan Goff, Bryan Kehl, Gerris Wilkinson, Zak DeOssie
CB (5): Aaron Ross, Corey Webster, Kevin Dockery, Terrell Thomas, Bruce Johnson
S (3): Kenny Phillips, Michael Johnson, C.C. Brown
K (1): Lawrence Tynes
P (1): Jeff Feagles
Suspended list (1): LB Michael Boley
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Random Thoughts As Camp Opens
With the players reporting to camp today, I thought it was probably a good time to put "pen to paper" to record some thoughts that have been rattling around in my head regarding the 2009 Giants.
By Thanksgiving of 2008, the Giants had established themselves as the best team in all of football and eliminated all the earlier off season talk about the fluke that was their 2007 Super Bowl trophy. Although the 2008 campaign went down in flames over the last 5 weeks of the season, any lingering doubts about the legitimacy of this team was permanently erased. They are the real deal and indisputably part of any serious discussion of likely candidates for the 2009 edition of the Lombardi trophy.
Presented below are three random thoughts/observations as 2009 camp opens: (1) Biggest Hurdle For Success? (2) Must Fun Position to Watch? (3) Dark Horse Surprise Player?
Biggest Issue For Success?
Can The Giants Maintain Their Running Game?
There are very few running backs in all of NFL history I would chose over Brandon Jacobs. He is an unstoppable force that moves the chains on a consistent basis. But more than that, he sets a tone while doing it. He literally intimidates opponents which, since these are NFL professionals we are talking about, is quite a statement. He plays with such intensity and violence that the adrenalin high carries over to his teammates on both sides of the ball. I prefer his style - and believe it more effective overall for team success - than the home run hitters (even more than my favorite of all time, Gayle Sayers).
But the very nature of his style of play is such that he is only effective as the first 1/2 of an overall running attack. He is - and always will be - part of a committee. The primary piece to be sure, but only one component of the overall engine none the less. Last year Derek Ward was the perfect compliment to Jacobs and, when all was said and done, that duo led the Giants to end the season as the #1 rushing team in all of football.
The Giants wisely signed Jacobs to a long term deal during the off season but were forced to let Ward walk. In 2009 Jacobs will be complimented by Ahmad Bradshaw, Danny Ware, and fourth round draft choice Andre Brown. Ware and Brown are, to the public, virtual unknowns. Bradshaw, on the other hand, showed great promise and was a significant contributor to the Giants 2007 Super Bowl run. So much so that any rational observer has to question his lack of touches in 2008.
The running game is central to the Giants success. This is a team that is going to win championships, first and foremost, because of its defensive dominance. An integral factor in achieving their defensive success is limiting the opponents' total possessions. And that is accomplished, first and foremost, with their running game.
Many observers this off season have pointed to the loss of Plaxico Burress as the primary obstacle facing the Giants in 2009. But this team is not going to win - or fail to win - a Super Bowl because of the passing game. The passing game is critical. Don't get me wrong. It's role, however, is as a compliment to the primary goal of the offense - possession of the football with methodical time crunching drives. The primary goal of the Giants' passing game is to keep defenses honest and off balance (and take advantage of defenses that don't), thus allowing the running game room to breathe and flourish.
Thus, the most critical question for me heading into 2009, is whether the Giants' offense can control the ball and limit opponents' possessions as they did so well through the first 12 games of 2008? And the answer to that question - and in my mind the entire season - is in the hands of Bradshaw, Ware and Brown.
Most Fun to Watch?
Wide Receivers.
A very rare thing is happening in 2009. I cannot recall the last time (if indeed it ever occurred before in history), a NFL team lost both its #1 and #2 wide receivers from the end of one season heading into the next. And then, add to that, not bringing in any veteran replacements.
When 2009 is in the history books, one of the following players will end up being the leading wide receiver for the New York Giants: Dominik Hixon, Steve Smith, Sinorice Moss, Mario Manningham, Hakeem Nicks, or Ramses Barden. Whomever wins that distinction, that player's name will surely be a surprise. Never has such a young and inexperienced group of wide receivers constituted the entire receiving corp of an NFL team. By definition they are going to grow with every game. Indeed with every play. There will be mistakes but there are going to be some fantastic plays too. One thing is for certain - it is going to be exciting - and fun - to watch.
Dark Horse Player to Watch?
Terrell Thomas
In the minds of most observers, the two starting defensive corners for the NY Giants 2009 season appear to be set in Corey Webster and Aaron Ross. Webster, magically, came into his own during the 2007 playoff run and carried that forward in 2008. Ross seemed to experience some sophomore jitters in 2008 but he has the physical tools and is expected to take major strides in his third full season in 2009.
But the player that caught my eye last year, especially later in the year, was Terrell Thomas. He showed flashes that told me the day could be coming very soon when he is the top dog of this group. I don't know if 2009 will be that year but my eyes are going to be firmly focused upon Terrell Thomas and I wouldn't be surprised if the Giants coaching staff are forced to find ways to get him on the field. Watch this kid.
Monday, May 25, 2009
2009 Draft
The Giants entered the 2009 draft with ten overall selections including five premium (top 100) picks. They had three extra picks: New Orleans' second and fifth round selections (45th and 151st overall) for Jeremy Shockey, as well as an extra third round (#100 overall) compensatory pick.
Despite all the pre-draft trade hoopla, the Giants ended the weekend holding onto their picks and drafting nine players, including five in the top 100. They gave Philadelphia their fifth round pick (#164 overall) in order to move up six spots (from #91 to #85) in the third round to nab WR Ramses Barden. The Jeremy Shockey trade yielded LB Clint Sintim (#45 in the 2nd round) and QB Rhett Bomar (#151 in the 5th round).
Selections by Round:
1 (29): WR Hakeem Nicks
2 (45): LB Clint Sintim *from New Orleans
2 (60): OT William Beatty
3 (85): WR Ramses Barden *traded #164 to move up from #91
3 (100): TE Travis Beckum *compensatory
4 (129): RB Andre Brown
5 (151): QB Rhett Bomar *from New Orleans
6 (200): CB DeAndre Wright
7 (238): CB Stoney Woodson
The Giants' obvious pre-draft need was the passing game and it therefore came as no surprise that they used three of their five top 100 premium selections to draft two receivers and a pass catching TE (as well as a RB with solid hands at #129). With the defense already bolstered by the additions of Canty, Bernard and Boley during free agency, it was also no surprise that four of their five premium picks were spent on offense. Indeed, the fact they went defense with any of their premium picks - their second selection no less - indicates they were very high on LB Clint Sintim.
The choice that threw me was using their 5th round pick from New Orleans on a QB. The Bomar selection suggests that, after a one year experiment, the Giants will likely once again carry three quarterbacks on their 53 man roster. I've been advocating dumping the third quarterback for years and was therefore underwhelmed by the decision. If Manning and Carr both go down at any point, having Bomar on the roster isn't going to get them to the promised land. Using the 151st pick in the draft on a QB appears to be a "bet" that they can develop him into Carr's future replacement or as trade bait in 2-3 years. Although not one of their top 100 premium picks - and clearly any player taken at #151 isn't guaranteed a roster spot on the Giants' SB level talented roster - I would have preferred a safety or a kicker - or seen them trade the pick.
The Giants will open 2009 without either their #1 or their #2 starting receivers from 2008. Moreover, there are no established veterans competing for those positions. One name - Hixon, Smith, Manningham, Moss, Nicks or Barden - will end up going down in the record books as the leading receiver for the 2009 NY Giants. Who "starts" will likely be in a state of flux throughout the year and there is a good chance - if not liklihood - that the top three wideouts in December bear different uniform numbers than those in September.
Raw physical talent - such as that possessed by Hakeem Nicks or Mario Manningham - will likely be afforded increased opportunities and playing time than would normally be the case in a more usual setting. And the coaching staff is likely to try to create situational opportunities for Barden, Beckum, and Brown. The passing game will be an interesting sideline story to the entire 2009 season and will be fun to watch. And two (or more) of these young men are likely to become the face of the NY Giants receiving corps for the next 5-10 years.
Holding five of the top 100 premium picks, this was an important draft for the NY Giants franchise. That they used three of those premium picks (and four of their first six picks overall) to address the obvious void in their passing game must raise a cautionary red flag in the mind of any objective observer. Did the Giants allow a dire need to dictate their draft? Having two extra premium selections is not an opportunity that comes along very often. Only time will tell whether Nicks, Sintim, Beatty, Barden and Beckum are names Giants fans are cheering five years from now. For better or worse, this draft will be viewed as a critical factor in the Giants' failure or success over the seasons to come.
Despite all the pre-draft trade hoopla, the Giants ended the weekend holding onto their picks and drafting nine players, including five in the top 100. They gave Philadelphia their fifth round pick (#164 overall) in order to move up six spots (from #91 to #85) in the third round to nab WR Ramses Barden. The Jeremy Shockey trade yielded LB Clint Sintim (#45 in the 2nd round) and QB Rhett Bomar (#151 in the 5th round).
Selections by Round:
1 (29): WR Hakeem Nicks
2 (45): LB Clint Sintim *from New Orleans
2 (60): OT William Beatty
3 (85): WR Ramses Barden *traded #164 to move up from #91
3 (100): TE Travis Beckum *compensatory
4 (129): RB Andre Brown
5 (151): QB Rhett Bomar *from New Orleans
6 (200): CB DeAndre Wright
7 (238): CB Stoney Woodson
The Giants' obvious pre-draft need was the passing game and it therefore came as no surprise that they used three of their five top 100 premium selections to draft two receivers and a pass catching TE (as well as a RB with solid hands at #129). With the defense already bolstered by the additions of Canty, Bernard and Boley during free agency, it was also no surprise that four of their five premium picks were spent on offense. Indeed, the fact they went defense with any of their premium picks - their second selection no less - indicates they were very high on LB Clint Sintim.
The choice that threw me was using their 5th round pick from New Orleans on a QB. The Bomar selection suggests that, after a one year experiment, the Giants will likely once again carry three quarterbacks on their 53 man roster. I've been advocating dumping the third quarterback for years and was therefore underwhelmed by the decision. If Manning and Carr both go down at any point, having Bomar on the roster isn't going to get them to the promised land. Using the 151st pick in the draft on a QB appears to be a "bet" that they can develop him into Carr's future replacement or as trade bait in 2-3 years. Although not one of their top 100 premium picks - and clearly any player taken at #151 isn't guaranteed a roster spot on the Giants' SB level talented roster - I would have preferred a safety or a kicker - or seen them trade the pick.
The Giants will open 2009 without either their #1 or their #2 starting receivers from 2008. Moreover, there are no established veterans competing for those positions. One name - Hixon, Smith, Manningham, Moss, Nicks or Barden - will end up going down in the record books as the leading receiver for the 2009 NY Giants. Who "starts" will likely be in a state of flux throughout the year and there is a good chance - if not liklihood - that the top three wideouts in December bear different uniform numbers than those in September.
Raw physical talent - such as that possessed by Hakeem Nicks or Mario Manningham - will likely be afforded increased opportunities and playing time than would normally be the case in a more usual setting. And the coaching staff is likely to try to create situational opportunities for Barden, Beckum, and Brown. The passing game will be an interesting sideline story to the entire 2009 season and will be fun to watch. And two (or more) of these young men are likely to become the face of the NY Giants receiving corps for the next 5-10 years.
Holding five of the top 100 premium picks, this was an important draft for the NY Giants franchise. That they used three of those premium picks (and four of their first six picks overall) to address the obvious void in their passing game must raise a cautionary red flag in the mind of any objective observer. Did the Giants allow a dire need to dictate their draft? Having two extra premium selections is not an opportunity that comes along very often. Only time will tell whether Nicks, Sintim, Beatty, Barden and Beckum are names Giants fans are cheering five years from now. For better or worse, this draft will be viewed as a critical factor in the Giants' failure or success over the seasons to come.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Pre-Draft Needs
Subsequent to my last post, the Giants officially released Plaxico Burress and have now lost both the #1 and #2 wide receivers from the 2008 season. As a result, speculation has been swirling for weeks that the Giants will trade for veteran receivers Braylon Edwards or Anquan Boldin - or will trade to move up in the first round to grab a premier WR such as Darrius Heyward-Bey.
Unlike many, I think there is a clear third option - don't panic and stand pat. The Giants are positioned to dominate next year without trading for Edwards, Boldin, or the likes of Heyward-Bey. They should have the best defense in all of football next year and likely the best Giants defense since 1986. They are solid on the offensive side of the ball with a great offensive line and a smash mouth, "in your face", running game. Concerns have been expressed about the need for a #1 WR threat to compel double teams and prevent other teams from stuffing the box to stop the run. But I, for one, believe that concern is overblown and borders on demeaning to the coaching staff and existing talent on the offensive side of the ball. I have no doubt that the coaches, given a full year to prepare, will find ways to create mismatches in the passing game with the existing talent on the team - that will burn any team that chooses to challenge the Giants running game. Furthermore, teams are going to bring 8 players into the box against the Giants regardless of who they have at WR. It is the only way to stop the Giants from playing their trademark ball control "eat the clock" offense.
Having said that, I would love to see the Giants add Edwards and/or Boldin but only at the right price. The Giants are still a relatively young team and, holding 5 of the first 100 selections, have the opportunity to solidify the base talent of the team for years to come. I would not be willing to give up more than one of those five picks for Edwards or Boldin (i.e. I don't care how many round 4+ picks they add to the package, but only one of their first five). And I absolutely do not want to see them use any of their first five picks to move up in any round. The draft is too much of a crap shoot - history is filled with first round picks that ultimately turned out to have been disappointments - and it just doesn't make sense to use valuable top 100 picks to move up on what can only be described as a gamble. Quantity in the top 100 is a hell of a lot more valuable than moving up 10 spots in the first round. If anything, I would love to see them put together a package of 4th round and lower picks to acquire a third 2nd round pick, giving them six of the top 100 years - every single one of which is guaranteed to make the team.
Now, on to positional needs. More than at any time in recent memory, there really are few glaring "needs". But, as I have said many times in the past, the draft is really all about replenishing your team over the next 3-5 years - it is critical to avoid tunnel vision and instead focus clearly on what you see for the team in two to three years. With that in mind, I would love to see the following positional needs addressed round by round:
1. WR
2. LB
2. WR
3. LB
3. OT/OL
4. S
5. TE
5. RB
6. OT/OL
7. CB
Unlike many, I think there is a clear third option - don't panic and stand pat. The Giants are positioned to dominate next year without trading for Edwards, Boldin, or the likes of Heyward-Bey. They should have the best defense in all of football next year and likely the best Giants defense since 1986. They are solid on the offensive side of the ball with a great offensive line and a smash mouth, "in your face", running game. Concerns have been expressed about the need for a #1 WR threat to compel double teams and prevent other teams from stuffing the box to stop the run. But I, for one, believe that concern is overblown and borders on demeaning to the coaching staff and existing talent on the offensive side of the ball. I have no doubt that the coaches, given a full year to prepare, will find ways to create mismatches in the passing game with the existing talent on the team - that will burn any team that chooses to challenge the Giants running game. Furthermore, teams are going to bring 8 players into the box against the Giants regardless of who they have at WR. It is the only way to stop the Giants from playing their trademark ball control "eat the clock" offense.
Having said that, I would love to see the Giants add Edwards and/or Boldin but only at the right price. The Giants are still a relatively young team and, holding 5 of the first 100 selections, have the opportunity to solidify the base talent of the team for years to come. I would not be willing to give up more than one of those five picks for Edwards or Boldin (i.e. I don't care how many round 4+ picks they add to the package, but only one of their first five). And I absolutely do not want to see them use any of their first five picks to move up in any round. The draft is too much of a crap shoot - history is filled with first round picks that ultimately turned out to have been disappointments - and it just doesn't make sense to use valuable top 100 picks to move up on what can only be described as a gamble. Quantity in the top 100 is a hell of a lot more valuable than moving up 10 spots in the first round. If anything, I would love to see them put together a package of 4th round and lower picks to acquire a third 2nd round pick, giving them six of the top 100 years - every single one of which is guaranteed to make the team.
Now, on to positional needs. More than at any time in recent memory, there really are few glaring "needs". But, as I have said many times in the past, the draft is really all about replenishing your team over the next 3-5 years - it is critical to avoid tunnel vision and instead focus clearly on what you see for the team in two to three years. With that in mind, I would love to see the following positional needs addressed round by round:
1. WR
2. LB
2. WR
3. LB
3. OT/OL
4. S
5. TE
5. RB
6. OT/OL
7. CB
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Free Agency
The Giants made big moves in free agency that, in my opinion, make the Giants the team to beat in the NFC and a favorite to win another Super Bowl. And my conclusion is before we know if Burress will play for the Giants this year and before the draft.
First, before addressing free agency, the Giants signed Brandon Jacobs. As big as their free agency moves were, the signing of Jacobs was even bigger. With Jacobs on board, the Giants will be a "in your face" pound-it out running team for the forseeable future.
They then turned their attention to free agency and made three huge signings. They solidified weakside linebacker with the signing of Michael Boley, then improved the defensive line with the additions of defensive tackles Ricky Bernard and Chris Canty. The defensive line in 2009 will feature the likes of Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, Chris Canty, Barry Cofield, Fred Robbins, Rocky Bernard, and Jay Alford. That is incredible depth. Most would start for any team in the league.
Figure the Giants to add a linebacker and at least one corner/safety in the draft. This defense is fast across the board and strong up front. It is geared to decimate other teams' quarterbacks. Ignoring special teams for the moment, the Giants are set to dominate in three of four phases -run defense, pass defense, and run offense. The only question mark is the passing game with the loss of both Burress and Toomer. There is has been much speculation that the Giants - with a bevy of draft picks - they hold 5 of the first top selections - may trade for a veteran wide receiver to replace Burress. I'd prefer to sit pat and use those top 5 selections to strengthen the team for years to come.
This team is poised to dominate for years to come. The only monkey wrench is that just when the Giants come into their own, the league is facing an uncertain future with increasing talk of a lost season in 2011 due to failing labor negotiations. The same thing happened to the Giants following the 1986 Super Bowl and they never really recovered. Hopefully that won't happen this time and ruin what appears to be the dawning of the greatest era in Giants history.
First, before addressing free agency, the Giants signed Brandon Jacobs. As big as their free agency moves were, the signing of Jacobs was even bigger. With Jacobs on board, the Giants will be a "in your face" pound-it out running team for the forseeable future.
They then turned their attention to free agency and made three huge signings. They solidified weakside linebacker with the signing of Michael Boley, then improved the defensive line with the additions of defensive tackles Ricky Bernard and Chris Canty. The defensive line in 2009 will feature the likes of Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, Mathias Kiwanuka, Chris Canty, Barry Cofield, Fred Robbins, Rocky Bernard, and Jay Alford. That is incredible depth. Most would start for any team in the league.
Figure the Giants to add a linebacker and at least one corner/safety in the draft. This defense is fast across the board and strong up front. It is geared to decimate other teams' quarterbacks. Ignoring special teams for the moment, the Giants are set to dominate in three of four phases -run defense, pass defense, and run offense. The only question mark is the passing game with the loss of both Burress and Toomer. There is has been much speculation that the Giants - with a bevy of draft picks - they hold 5 of the first top selections - may trade for a veteran wide receiver to replace Burress. I'd prefer to sit pat and use those top 5 selections to strengthen the team for years to come.
This team is poised to dominate for years to come. The only monkey wrench is that just when the Giants come into their own, the league is facing an uncertain future with increasing talk of a lost season in 2011 due to failing labor negotiations. The same thing happened to the Giants following the 1986 Super Bowl and they never really recovered. Hopefully that won't happen this time and ruin what appears to be the dawning of the greatest era in Giants history.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Giants Fail to Repeat
I haven't posted since the morning of the Giants - Eagles game. It's been very painful - primarily because of the very rare opportunity lost - it is not often in an entire life time that any team is so close to back to back championships. Here were the Giants - the #1 seed in the NFC - the Vegas odds on favorite to win the Super Bowl and bring home the very first back to back championships in team history.
There were many factors that contributed to this loss. I am completely dumbfounded by the failure to run Jacobs for example. Especially the sequence following Fred Robbins' interception during the first series after half time. You could see the energy with which Jacobs ran onto the field. First play - Jacobs 11 yards. Second play Jacobs 5 yards. Jacobs was running with the most emotion I think I may have ever seen. Yet - the next two plays - two incomplete passes forcing a field goal on 4th down. At the time I was completely shocked and dismayed by the play calling on that sequence and remain baffled to this day.
However, in my mind there was a much larger factor at play here as I anticipated in my weblog post immediately before the game - the wind. McNabb's arm is so strong and his spiral so tight - that the wind has virtually no impact upon his ability to throw the ball - and it showed during this game. The Eagles constantly moved the ball through the air - with and against the wind. Manning, however, was throwing wounded ducks that seemed to dance with the air currents. I strongly believe that the Giants would have won this game had it been played inside a dome.
And, if true, that has to be a cause for concern for a club that has a history of using the winds of Giants stadium to its advantage in December and January - commonly known as "Giants football". Perhaps the new stadium - even without a dome - will not have the historic circling winds that has made the current stadium so famous. But one thing is for sure - despite his protestations that the wind was not a factor (and being the QB that must play in Giants stadium are his protestations any great surprise?), anyone who has followed Giants football and Eli Manning knew coming into the game that gusty winds would not favor the Giants in this game - and they did not.
So, later today Giants fans get to watch Curt Warner and the Arizona Cardinals take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa. A game that will undoubtedly be watched by all Giants fans with a touch of sadness in their hearts for what could (and should) have been.
There were many factors that contributed to this loss. I am completely dumbfounded by the failure to run Jacobs for example. Especially the sequence following Fred Robbins' interception during the first series after half time. You could see the energy with which Jacobs ran onto the field. First play - Jacobs 11 yards. Second play Jacobs 5 yards. Jacobs was running with the most emotion I think I may have ever seen. Yet - the next two plays - two incomplete passes forcing a field goal on 4th down. At the time I was completely shocked and dismayed by the play calling on that sequence and remain baffled to this day.
However, in my mind there was a much larger factor at play here as I anticipated in my weblog post immediately before the game - the wind. McNabb's arm is so strong and his spiral so tight - that the wind has virtually no impact upon his ability to throw the ball - and it showed during this game. The Eagles constantly moved the ball through the air - with and against the wind. Manning, however, was throwing wounded ducks that seemed to dance with the air currents. I strongly believe that the Giants would have won this game had it been played inside a dome.
And, if true, that has to be a cause for concern for a club that has a history of using the winds of Giants stadium to its advantage in December and January - commonly known as "Giants football". Perhaps the new stadium - even without a dome - will not have the historic circling winds that has made the current stadium so famous. But one thing is for sure - despite his protestations that the wind was not a factor (and being the QB that must play in Giants stadium are his protestations any great surprise?), anyone who has followed Giants football and Eli Manning knew coming into the game that gusty winds would not favor the Giants in this game - and they did not.
So, later today Giants fans get to watch Curt Warner and the Arizona Cardinals take on the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa. A game that will undoubtedly be watched by all Giants fans with a touch of sadness in their hearts for what could (and should) have been.
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Giants Look to Shoot Down Soaring Eagles
Most players never win one Super Bowl. A rare few are lucky enough to win two or more. But very, very few ever win back to back titles. From the moment the Giants won the Super Bowl last year, I immediately realized how rare it was to win a Super Bowl and thus, how rarer still was the opportunity to win back to back NFL titles. And the Giants have come so incredibly far from then to now - getting down to business enough to become the #1 seed in the entire NFC - and the Vegas favorite to win it all again. The Giants are playing for history.
One thing, however, is certain. It is not going to be easy. Especially today against an Eagles team that is flying high with emotion, energy, and confidence. I see four factors that will determine the outcome of this game and the Giants quest to repeat:
1. The Wind
The weather today calls for blustery winds. Normally I would think that would favor the team that relies more on the run than the pass and thus the Giants over the Eagles. However, I don't think that norm applies to these two teams. I have watched almost every Eagles game over the past five years and Donovan McNabb has one of the strongest arms I've ever seen. He can be leaning backwards on his heels and still throw the football 60 yards with a flick of his wrist. The wind is unlikely to bother McNabb very much forcing the Giants to honor the pass at all times. On the other side of the ball, the wind plays havoc with Eli Manning's game. In fact, if I were playing the Giants the one thing I would pray for would be high winds. To beat the Giants you need to stop Brandon Jacobs. And the only way you stop Brandon Jacobs is to totally abandon defending against the pass - normally a very dangerous proposition when facing Eli Manning. However Eli is horrible when there are blustery winds.
2. Brandon Jacobs
Brandon is the key to the Giants winning today. He has to have success moving the chains and eating the clock. If he does that, the Giants win on both sides of the ball. Brandon Jacobs is thus the key to the success of both the Giants offense and defense. However, see point one above and the impact the wind will have upon the Giants keeping the Eagles honest and giving Brandon some room to move.
3. Recent Trend
Over the first 12 games, the Giants did not allow a single 100 yard rusher. Over the first 12 games the Giants only allowed four touchdown plays of 30 yards or more. All of that totally changed over the last quarter of the season. They allowed a 100 yard rusher in each of the last four games. And during that same four game stretch, the Giants allowed seven touchdowns of 30 or more yards. The Giants have to revert back to their form of the first 3 quarters of the season if they are going to repeat. And they have to start today or they will not get past the Eagles.
4. Pressuring McNabb
In 2007 the Giants sacked McNabb 12 times in one game. This year they have zero sacks in two games. Sacks, of course, are important only to the extent they symbolize pressure. And it is pressure that will stop McNabb. All quarterbacks wither under sever pressure but McNabb even more than most. McNabb is an up and down quarterback and it is critical to be in his face and never allow him to get into any type of rhythm.
Although I don't like this match up, when things are tough and the money is on the line, this Giants team has dug deep and found a way to win. Until proven otherwise, I believe they will continue to play gritty when the chips are down. And that is the factor that should prove to be the difference today. Giants 20, Eagles 13.
One thing, however, is certain. It is not going to be easy. Especially today against an Eagles team that is flying high with emotion, energy, and confidence. I see four factors that will determine the outcome of this game and the Giants quest to repeat:
1. The Wind
The weather today calls for blustery winds. Normally I would think that would favor the team that relies more on the run than the pass and thus the Giants over the Eagles. However, I don't think that norm applies to these two teams. I have watched almost every Eagles game over the past five years and Donovan McNabb has one of the strongest arms I've ever seen. He can be leaning backwards on his heels and still throw the football 60 yards with a flick of his wrist. The wind is unlikely to bother McNabb very much forcing the Giants to honor the pass at all times. On the other side of the ball, the wind plays havoc with Eli Manning's game. In fact, if I were playing the Giants the one thing I would pray for would be high winds. To beat the Giants you need to stop Brandon Jacobs. And the only way you stop Brandon Jacobs is to totally abandon defending against the pass - normally a very dangerous proposition when facing Eli Manning. However Eli is horrible when there are blustery winds.
2. Brandon Jacobs
Brandon is the key to the Giants winning today. He has to have success moving the chains and eating the clock. If he does that, the Giants win on both sides of the ball. Brandon Jacobs is thus the key to the success of both the Giants offense and defense. However, see point one above and the impact the wind will have upon the Giants keeping the Eagles honest and giving Brandon some room to move.
3. Recent Trend
Over the first 12 games, the Giants did not allow a single 100 yard rusher. Over the first 12 games the Giants only allowed four touchdown plays of 30 yards or more. All of that totally changed over the last quarter of the season. They allowed a 100 yard rusher in each of the last four games. And during that same four game stretch, the Giants allowed seven touchdowns of 30 or more yards. The Giants have to revert back to their form of the first 3 quarters of the season if they are going to repeat. And they have to start today or they will not get past the Eagles.
4. Pressuring McNabb
In 2007 the Giants sacked McNabb 12 times in one game. This year they have zero sacks in two games. Sacks, of course, are important only to the extent they symbolize pressure. And it is pressure that will stop McNabb. All quarterbacks wither under sever pressure but McNabb even more than most. McNabb is an up and down quarterback and it is critical to be in his face and never allow him to get into any type of rhythm.
Although I don't like this match up, when things are tough and the money is on the line, this Giants team has dug deep and found a way to win. Until proven otherwise, I believe they will continue to play gritty when the chips are down. And that is the factor that should prove to be the difference today. Giants 20, Eagles 13.
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